New exhibition by Tasmanian artist Tony Smibert
Where Islands Meet explores the artistic connection between two distant islands – Japan and Tasmania – through Tony Smibert’s unique vision.
A new free exhibition is showing at the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts until mid-June 2025.
Where Islands Meet is a captivating collection of Japanese-influenced acrylic and watercolour paintings by Tony Smibert.
The artworks feature Tasmanian subjects from 1985 to 2022 and are displayed alongside Japanese masterworks from the Allport collection. Stunning Yuzen Smibert-Chiji kimonos, designed by Tony Smibert, are also on display.
Exhibition curator Damian Smith describes Smibert as “a singular voice in traditional, minimal and abstract art – a painter whose work blends eastern and western traditions.”
Since the early 1960s, Tony Smibert’s art has been deeply influenced by Japan. He studied at the National Gallery of Victoria Art School, Melbourne University, taught for a decade, and painted in Tasmania for 40 years. A long apprenticeship to a Japanese Aikido master was also very formative.
“I have lived, exhibited, and taught in Japan and am one of the few non-Japanese artists ever invited to design traditional Yuzen kimonos for the Japanese market.” – Tony Smibert
“[Smibert creates] large-scale paintings that register the rugged forms of the remote Tasmanian landscape conveyed in striking monotone hues that accentuate the contours and textures of stony escarpments and the tempestuous weather fronts that sweep across the island.” – Damian Smith
Where Islands Meet is part of Ten Days on the Island
Free exhibition
21 March – 14 June 2025
Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts
Ground Floor, 91 Murray Street,
Hobart, Tasmania
- Monday to Friday 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am to 2:00 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Closed public holidays
Free entry, no bookings required
