Bessie Gibson

Bio

Bessie Gibson (1868-1961) was an artist born in Ipswich, Queensland, known for her impressionist style and her rejection of the radical aspects of modernism. Gibson studied under Godfrey Rivers at the Brisbane Central Technical College, where she developed an interest in miniature painting. After visiting relatives in Scotland in 1901-02, she was inspired to study abroad and moved to Paris in 1905. Her family favoured her painting career and supported her for three years. Gibson settled in Paris, found herself a flat in Montparnasse, and had an intimate friendship with another Brisbane painter, Anne Alison Greene (1878-1954).

In Paris, Gibson established a studio on Rue Campagne Première. Gibson studied at the Castelucho and Colarossi ateliers under Frances Hodgkins and the American Edwin Scott. Additionally, she pursued miniature painting under Gabrielle Debillemont-Chardon. Gibson regularly exhibited in the then-decaying system of Salon and Royal Academy exhibitions between 1905 and 1923. From 1913 to 1939, Gibson exhibited annually at either the Société des Artistes Français or the Salon d'Automnes. When Greene moved back to Queensland because of illness, Gibson followed shortly after, returning to Australia in 1947. At the time, Gibson's work was relatively unknown in Australia; however, she went on to regularly exhibit in Sydney and Melbourne. Today, Gibson's paintings are held in State Galleries and Museums throughout Australia.

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