Aida Smith is a self-taught oil painter whose work bridges two worlds, her birthplace in the United States and her chosen home of Wellington. For the past 17 years, these landscapes have imprinted themselves upon her, shaping a visual language that speaks to memory, belonging, and the quiet beauty of everyday scenes. Through her paintings, she weaves together personal history and the natural world, crafting an autobiography in paint.

Aida’s creative journey began when she was just ten years old, discovering the magic of black and white photography. Capturing light, shadow, and contrast through a camera lens sparked a lifelong fascination with visual storytelling. In high school and university, she explored drawing and painting, experimenting with composition and form, yet it wasn’t until years later, when her own children reached high school, that she returned fully to painting, rediscovering the deep sense of fulfillment it brought.

Sustainability is at the heart of her practice, not just in concept but in execution. She is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of her work, using solvent-free professional oil paints, working without mediums or varnishes, and choosing linen or canvas as her surfaces. This approach reflects her belief that art should exist in harmony with the world it depicts, rather than at its expense.

Although Aida has built a reputation for her delicate and evocative still life paintings, this collection marks a shift, her first dedicated exploration of landscape. Her work captures the essence of place through a softened, almost dreamlike perspective. Each painting invites the viewer to step into a world that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, evoking a sense of nostalgia, tranquility and quiet wonder.

Her distinctive approach has gained recognition, earning her a place as a finalist in the 2025 Molly Morpeth Canaday Awards and the 2024 Wellington Regional Arts Review. These achievements reflect her growing impact in the New Zealand art scene, as she continues to evolve her practice and expand the boundaries of her artistic storytelling.