Frederic Bell-Smith was born in London, England. He first studied under his father who painted miniature portraits. The Bell-Smiths came to Montreal in 1867 and in 1871 Frederic moved to Hamilton with his wife and worked for James Inglis photography firm. He studied at the Academie Colarossi and later he became the Art Director of Alma College; then Drawing Master at Central Public School and principal of the western branch of the Toronto Art School.
Frederic Marlett Bell-Smith "Rockies" watercolour, 11 x 14 1/2 ins