Peter Smith’s So It’s Not Fancy Dress Then? is a delightful exploration of whimsy and imagination, brought to life through vivid colour and dynamic form. A bold figure in black and white stripes takes centre stage, set against a cast of equally intriguing characters, each crafted with exquisite detail.
The contrast between patterns and tones creates a playful tension, drawing the eye and sparking curiosity. Smith’s distinctive style—surreal yet warmly accessible—is on full display, blending joy with quiet reflection. His carefully chosen palette and expressive brushwork invite viewers into a world where the ordinary is transformed by fantasy.
Rich in nostalgic charm, the piece recalls the dreams and playfulness of childhood, while offering space for personal interpretation. More than a visual treat, it encourages engagement and wonder, making it a striking and conversation-worthy addition to any setting.
With its unique narrative and evocative spirit, So It’s Not Fancy Dress Then? captures the essence of imaginative storytelling on canvas.
| Medium: | Giclée |
| Format: | Paper |
| Size (Framed): | 81 x 79 cm |
| Size (Unframed): | 51 x 51 cm |
| Signed: | Yes |
| Limited Edition: | Edition 167 of 295 |
Peter Smith has established himself as one of the UK’s leading naïve artists, with a large back catalogue of limited editions spanning (initially) paper and canvas editions, sculptures and of course original paintings. His editions remain highly collectable & sort after.
As of 2024, his story based naïve artwork have been in constant publication since 2005! which is no small achievement in the fast moving UK art market.
His ‘Impossimals’ (created by himself & his wife Jayne Smith) characters are comedic and zany interpretations of people & their habits, I see them as cartoon-like ‘hippo’ characters, and they seem to get up to all sorts of mischief over the years including: drinking, eating chocolate & ice-cream, making cakes and baking!
Over time, Peter has also experimented with other collectables including keyrings, cufflinks, compact mirrors, paper weights and best selling calendars which I believe he publishes himself for his fans. However, it is without doubt his hilarious limited edition sculptures, often accompany artwork of the same name, that have sold equally as well as his prints. As of 2024 Peter has released at least 25 sculptures editions.
Peter is versatile and has turned his award winning style to other subject matters. In 2015 he released ‘Peter Smith – The Lost Alice Collection’, in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carol’s ’Alice In Wonderland’ series – characters that have captured the hearts of children and adults for generation – with 4 amazing sculptures and 6 wonderful canvas limited editions.
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