Edmund Smith's phenomenal talent is pure power. Having attended a traditional South African school in Johannesburg, Eddie took up painting merely as a hobby. While many years’ experience surely leaves its mark upon the exquisite wildlife paintings he produces, his natural flair for it is truly unmistakable.

Eddie spent five fruitful years in the United States several years ago. While his artistry was not the real reason he went over, it nevertheless stood him in good stead. In California, where painting was still merely a hobby of Eddie's, he started selling his work privately. This went extremely well. A naturally active person, Eddie enjoys brisk exercise, going to gym, as well as spending as much time as possible outdoors, especially close to the ocean. He notes that it was very much the splendor and beauty of South African nature that urged him to return from America.

Due to both the success of his work and the enjoyment he gains from it, Eddie has become a full time artist. Much of his work is on display at the Aza Gallery in Sandton. (Originally printed in Homes and Gardens magazine)

"I have been painting and drawing since I can remember. It was always just a hobby. I started drawing anything that made me feel an emotional response, from faces to still life to landscapes. Most of my work comprised of wildlife. At first the medium was pencil, then oil pastels and now oil on canvas. I started painting professionally in July 1997, after being convinced by a friend to do so, and I am happy to say that I have never looked back. Even when it has been hard and frustrating, the love of what I do keeps me going." - Edmund Smith

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