Ever since attending the Winnipeg School of Art in the 1930s, Gordon Smith lived his life for the Arts. His creativity enriched all, not only through his artistic contributions, but also through his mentoring and generousity to others.

He contributed to British Columbia’s cultural life for more than 50 years and is recognized as one of Canada’s most creative talents. His work has been exhibited throughout the world in private and public galleries and can be found in museums and private and corporate collections across the country.

He is renowned for his support of and inspiration to young artists, encouraging them to pursue their goals. He was a founding patron of the Artists For Kids Foundation which has been providing permanent support for the fine arts to schoolchildren since 1989. He taught at the old Vancouver School of Art and the University of British Columbia which made Gordon Smith Professor Emeritus, Fine Arts in 1982. He donated his time and works to numerous charity auctions and fundraising events.

He was awarded the Order of Canada, and honourary Doctorates from Simon Fraser University and the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design. He was tireless in his determination to see that the arts and culture thrive in British Columbia.