Philip Smith (b. Miami, FL, 1952) is a foundational figure of The Pictures Generation, a group whose influence transformed the visual art landscape. His inclusion in the pivotal Pictures exhibition in 1977, curated by Douglas Crimp, alongside artists Troy Brauntuch, Jack Goldstein, Sherrie Levine, and Robert Longo, cemented his role in a movement that redefined the lens through which we see art.

In his work, found images documented by Smith on slide film are used to create metaphysical narratives that explore new areas of consciousness. Art historical references, DNA strands, periodic tables, tarot cards, Cold War spy manuals, advertisements for home goods, and cartoon characters populate his imagery which is both cryptic and personal. While much of his earlier work seems mysteriously encoded, the most recent paintings convey a sense of openness and dynamism. They may be understood as generators of positive energy, or magnetic fields.

Smith’s work has been honored in exhibitions worldwide, including the Whitney and Beijing Biennials, and resides in a host of esteemed collections. These include the Whitney Museum of American Art, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Dallas Museum of Art, Detroit Institute of Arts, Allen Memorial Art Museum, Houston Museum of Fine Arts, Pérez Art Museum Miami, Milwaukee Museum of Contemporary Art, Harn Museum of Art, Bard College, Norton Museum of Art, Bass Museum of Art, Morgan Stanley, the New York Public Library, Museum of Contemporary Art, North Miami, and the Perez Art Museum Miami.

He is the author of a memoir, Walking Through Walls (Simon and Schuster, 2008).


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