Don Egginton, one of Australia's most beloved landscape painters, has died at the age of 85. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully at his home in the Blue Mountains, New South Wales, on June 25, 2026.
Early life and artistic beginnings
Born in 1941 in Sydney, Egginton showed an early aptitude for art. He studied at the National Art School in Sydney, where he was influenced by the Heidelberg School and modernists like Fred Williams. After graduating, he worked as a commercial illustrator before dedicating himself to full-time painting in the 1970s.
Signature style and themes
Egginton was best known for his vivid depictions of the Australian bush, particularly the Blue Mountains region where he lived for over 40 years. His work combined bold colours with a lyrical sensitivity to light and atmosphere. 'He captured the spirit of the landscape in a way that felt both timeless and immediate,' said art critic John McDonald. 'His paintings are a celebration of the natural world.'
His paintings often featured eucalyptus trees, rocky outcrops, and winding creeks, rendered in thick impasto strokes. He once said, 'I want people to feel the heat of the sun and the sound of the cicadas when they look at my work.'
Career highlights and legacy
Egginton held more than 50 solo exhibitions over his career, with retrospectives at the Art Gallery of New South Wales and the National Gallery of Victoria. His works are held in major public collections, including the National Gallery of Australia and all state galleries. In 2015, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to visual arts.
In 2021, his painting 'Summer Haze, Blue Mountains' sold for a record $420,000 at auction, reflecting his enduring popularity. 'Don was a national treasure,' said gallery owner Tim Olsen. 'His contribution to Australian art is immeasurable.'
Personal life and final years
Egginton is survived by his wife of 55 years, Margaret, and their two children. He continued painting until his final months, completing a series of studies of the Grose Valley. His family said he died peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones. A private funeral will be held, with a public memorial planned for later this year.
