B. 1882 – 1960

Born in South Australia, Gwen Barringer was a watercolourist celebrated for her lyrical depictions of landscapes and still life, particularly flowers. Trained at the South Australian School of Arts and Crafts, Barringer’s artistic journey took her to Europe in 1928. Upon her return, she held a successful solo exhibition in Adelaide, solidifying her position within the South Australian arts community and achieving near-record sales for an Australian woman artist. 

After marrying fellow artist Herbert Barringer in 1910, Barrginer’s work flourished. Together, the couple would spend copious amounts of time in nature, informing both of their practices. Simultaneously, Barringer was also working as a teacher at the School of Arts and Crafts where she had once studied.

A committed member of the South Australian Society of Arts for over 30 years, Barringer was an influential figure, serving as Vice President in 1938 – the first woman to hold the position. Upon her death, she bequeathed funds to establish prizes for flower painting in watercolour, cementing her legacy. 

To read a more in-depth biography of the artist, click here.