When: 31 December 2025 – 26 January 2026

Josie Smith is a Filipino-born visual artist and writer. She began her artistic practice in the Philippines, where she participated in group exhibitions. After relocating to Australia, she continued making art as a hobby, which later became an important part of her recovery following a traumatic event.

Her work was significantly shaped by the 2019–2020 Black Summer Bushfires, during which she lost her husband, John Smith, who died while attempting to save their bush property. Following this event, Josie focused on her art practice, studied psychology, and wrote her memoir.

Her work combines memoir and visual art and reflects experiences of loss, survival and connection. In addition to her creative practice, Josie supports youth mental health initiatives and donates 30% of her painting sales to The Local Gatho, a grassroots organisation supporting young people and addressing isolation in regional communities.

ARTIST’S FEATURED: Josie Smith & John Smith