Bessie Gibson

Gibson was not a part of the avant-garde art scene of early twentieth century Paris. Instead, she worked within the conservative world of the Royal Academy and Salon exhibitions.^[1]

Gibson left Paris in 1939 with the outbreak of World War II and spent the war years in England engaged in Red Cross work. When peace was declared she returned to Paris.^[3]

Returning to Australia in 1947, Gibson's work was almost unknown in Australia, despite recognition of the work of contemporary female expatriates. This is probably because of her shyness and her Queensland background.^[1]She was, however, recognised by the Royal Queensland Art Society who made her a Life Member in 1947.^[4]

Her work is now in several State galleries, the National Gallery of Australia and in private collections. She died in a Brisbane convalescent home on 13 July 1961 and was cremated.