Born 1939, New Plymouth, Smither has produced a vast body of work, translating his intimate observations of his local environments, family and friends, and objects of everyday life into works of art. He is one of New Zealand's leading exponents of the realist style.

Michael Smither attended Elam Art School in Auckland 1959 -1960. He returned to New Plymouth, became a founding member of 'Group 60', with Don Driver, his mentor. His work is held in most public collections throughout New Zealand.

In 2004 a major publication "Michael Smither Painter" by Trish Gribben, was published by Ron Sang Publications. That same year he was awarded CNZM.