Johan Smith was born in Zimbabwe in 1961.After moving to South Africa in 1975, he matriculated at Durbanville High, and went on to study agriculture at the University of Stellenbosch. During this time, he took ceramics part time and held a number of successful exhibitions, including the National Potters Association's Annual exhibition. After moving to Bethlehem, Johan set up his own studio. The tedious production process and limited colour spectrum of ceramics frustrated the artist. This led to experiments in Water-colours, etchings and pastels. However it was the vitality, boldness and versatility of oils that finally took the place of ceramics.

After completing his M Sc Agric Johan realized that a choice between art and agriculture was imperative. In June 1995 Johan quit his job as agricultural researcher to practice art professionally. The opening of the Johan Smith Art Gallery in Clarens in 1999 launched the marketing of Johan's work to new heights. Today his work is enjoyed by art lovers both locally and internationally.

Johan, being self-taught, has developed a very unique style. Thin application of the paint gives a translucent air brush effect which contrasts well with thick palette knife work. His landscaped are always stripped of detail and pretension, resulting in an uncomplicated, graphic interpretation.

Johan is married to Stienie, has three children, Lou, Sebastian and David. He lives in Bethlehem which acts as a base from where he can photograph and paint the wonderful landscape and skies of the eastern Free State.

"I do not paint to make statements, I paint because I have a God-given talent which brings joy and meaning to my life and hopefully to those with whom I share it"