Background
He was born in New Plymouth and was educated at New Plymouth Boys" High School and Elam School of Fine Arts, Auckland.
He was born in New Plymouth and was educated at New Plymouth Boys" High School and Elam School of Fine Arts, Auckland.
While studying he worked part-time in a car spray-paint shop, an occupation which introduced Smither to the use of lacquer-based paints. In 1959, Smither returned to New Plymouth, working part-time in arts-related jobs. His first solo exhibition was in 1961.
The two have three children, Sarah, Thomas and Joseph.
Smither now lives at Otama beach on the Coromandel Peninsula. Smither was also influenced by Rita Angus and Lois White as he was studying.
He turned to them for inspiration. 21 Piano Pieces (1968–1978)
Four Pieces for violin and viola (1974)
Geometric Scores for piano (1975, revised 1976)
Polyphonic Chords for four players (1980).
Originally intended for 4 cellos
Cello for Pamela Gray for solo cello (1981).