MR FRANK BROOKESMITH.

Southland Times, Issue 21650, 11 March 1932, Page 4

MR FRANK BROOKESMITH.

The death occurred at his residence Dalrymple Road yesterday of Mr Frank Brookesmith, who for nearly a quarter of a century has been a conspicuous figure in artistic circles in Invercargill. The late Mr Brokesmith was born in England, but came out to New Zealand at a comparatively early age. Though from his boyhood art made a strong appeal to him, he followed a business career for a good many years in New Zealand. After a period spent in the North Island he came to live in Invercargill where he married Miss J. Mclvor, whose mother was well-known in the teaching profession in the early days of Invercargill’s history. Not long after their marriage Mr and Mrs Brookesmith left for Australia and in Melbourne Mr Brookesmith was able to devote a great deal of time to landscape painting, for which he possessed

outstanding talent. Returning to Invercargill nearly 25 years ago, he followed the calling of his desire, and from his studio charming paintings of magnificent fiord and lake scenery have come. Many of these landscapes now’ grace walls in distant parts of the world and serve to draw attention to the scenic grandeur of the South Island of New Zealand. Not only was Mr Brookesmith a gifted artist himself, but he had the power of imparting his knowledge and technique to others. He was also deeply interested in any movement for the furtherance of art and played a valuable part in the formation of the Society of Arts. As a citizen he was held in the highest affection and esteem. His widow, three daughters and a son, who is in England, survive him.