ATKINSON, Robert 1863–1896

Born Leeds, England; studied there under Richard Waller, in Antwerp under Verlat. Came to New Zealand 1885 for health reasons and settled in Auckland as a professional artist with a studio in Victoria Arcade. Was a friend of painter Mrs Kate McCosh Clark and probably used as a studio a building in the McCosh Claks' grounds, the site of the present King's School in Remuera. Possibly had an introduction to painter Albin Martin whose friend he became and whose portrait he painted. Illustrated Kate McCosh Clark's Maori Tales and Legends 1896. By 1890 had moved to Sydney. In 1891 exhibited two paintings with the Royal Academy, one a portrait of a grandchild of Te Heu Heu, the Taupo chief. Died in Sydney. Exhibited with ASA 1886–89; Centennial Ex. Represented : ACAG, Gallery of New South Wales.