"Last Light" by Russel Smith

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Russell Smith’s “Last Light” premieres in Washington, D.C.

COLUMBUS—Local artist Russell Smith recently celebrated a significant milestone in his career with the exhibition of his painting, “Last Light,” at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. The piece pays tribute to a pivotal moment in aviation history, capturing a scene from World War I that has resonated with aviation enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Smith’s fascination with airplanes ignited at a young age when his father gifted him his first airplane model at the age of seven. 

“I’ve been hooked ever since,” says Smith, reflecting on his childhood adventures of drawing airplanes. Although he initially pursued a path toward aeronautical engineering in college, the works of British artist Robert Taylor inspired him to steer his career toward painting instead.

The opportunity for Smith to display his artwork at the NASM wasn’t a goal he actively pursued; rather, it serendipitously found him through the generosity of friend and benefactor Carl Bobrow. A former collections manager at the museum, Bobrow facilitated behind-the-scenes access, allowing Smith to gather reference photos of airplanes. After purchasing “Last Light” about nine years ago, Bobrow donated it to the museum upon his retirement, conditionally ensuring that it would be on permanent display in the WWI gallery after renovations.

“Carl bought the painting, donated it to the museum, and then let me know what he had done,” Smith explained. 

The museum’s extensive renovation process took several years, but as soon as plans for the WWI gallery were underway, Smith’s anticipation grew. 

“I was quite proud that I had a piece going into the collection; however, the museum asked me to wait until the renovations were complete,” he recalled.

In an unexpected turn, Smith received an invitation to the gallery’s opening reception on July 22 from Bobrow. Although Bobrow chose not to make the trip from Oregon, he arranged for Smith to attend in his stead, marking a momentous occasion in Smith’s artistic journey.

“Last Light” depicts the courageous flight of Lt. Harold Goettler and  Lt. Erwin Bleckley of the 50th Aero Squadron as they endeavored to locate and resupply the “Lost Battalion” on October 6, 1918. 

“I’ve visited the NASM since I was a kid. It has always been my Mecca,” he said. “I’ve had career highlights, including celebrity clients and my own stamps, but this tops them all. My only regret is that my parents aren’t around to see it. They were my biggest fans.”

“Last Light” will now be on permanent display in the WWI gallery of the NASM, located on the National Mall, where it will be accessible to millions of visitors who share Smith’s love of aviation.

Now residing in Columbus, Smith and his wife made a significant lifestyle change after decades in Charlotte. They purchased property in 2021 and are currently building their dream home. As a member of Tryon Painters and Sculptors, Smith continues to thrive creatively in his new surroundings, where he also experiments with western and equestrian art.

Interested art enthusiasts can view more of Smith’s work on his website at www.RussellSmithArt.com.