Kevin Best, born in 1932 in Hamilton, Newcastle, NSW, was an acclaimed Australian landscape painter known for his evocative depictions of the Australian bush. From a young age, he showed artistic talent, sketching warships and airplanes during World War II. His love of nature, nurtured during his time in the Boy Scouts, would later inspire many of his works featuring stockmen, outback life, and rural family scenes.

Best spent 28 years working as a stockbroker before returning to painting in 1972. In 1977, at the age of 43, he left his job to become a full-time artist, encouraged by friends and family. A self-taught painter, he spent years refining his craft, focusing on the play of light in the landscape, a technique reminiscent of Australian artist Hans Heysen.

Best’s work became widely popular, appearing on calendars, placemats, and tins, and he published two books on his art, A Brush with Light and Secrets of the Brush. In 2005, he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his contributions to the arts and charity. Best’s work continues to inspire, capturing the beauty and spirit of the Australian bush. He passed away in 2012.

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