Mary Elizabeth Livingston facts for kids

Mary Elizabeth Livingston (born August 21, 1857 – died December 18, 1913) was an Australian artist from a long time ago. She was famous for her botanical art, which means she drew and painted plants. Mary was especially good at drawing the native plants of Tasmania.

Her Life and Art

Mary Elizabeth Livingston was born in Hobart, Tasmania, on August 21, 1857. She was the oldest daughter of John Lees Livingston and Mary Fry McLean. Her sister, Lillie, also enjoyed painting.

In 1879, Mary went to the National Gallery School in Melbourne. There, she learned from a famous painting teacher named Eugene von Guerard. It was quite special because she studied both design and painting at the same time!

During the 1880s, Mary Livingston taught art. She taught painting and drawing at schools in Hobart. She also gave private lessons to people who wanted to learn.

On March 29, 1890, Mary married Robert Sydney Milles in Hobart. He worked as a surveyor and engineer. They had three children: Thomas, Mary, and Robert. Even after she got married, Mary kept painting. After her marriage, she signed her artwork as M. E. Milles.

Mary also contributed her art to special gift albums. For example, in 1883, she helped create an album for Lady Sarah Smith. Lady Smith was the wife of Sir Francis Smith, who was the Premier (like a state leader) of Tasmania. In 1887, the Tasmanian Government asked her to paint for another album. This album was a gift for the Earl of Aberdeen when he visited Tasmania. Mary also painted beautiful designs on china and porcelain.

Mary Elizabeth Livingston passed away in Hobart on December 18, 1913. She was 56 years old.

Where to See Her Art

You can find some of Mary Elizabeth Livingston's artworks in the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Art. This museum is located in the State Library of Tasmania in Hobart.