Joseph Harry Grainger (frequently Granger) was born at Stourbridge, Worcester, UK, c. 1853 and died in Brisbane on 28 June 1931. He was inspired to become an artist through visits to the Birmingham Art Gallery and it is possible that he had some training prior to his arrival in Brisbane on the Darling Downs in 1886.
In Brisbane he worked as a buyer for the Finney Isles department store. Grainger was involved with the founding of the Queensland Art Society (QAS) in 1887 and exhibited with the Society from 1889 to 1930. Grainger was awarded a Gold Medal for a seascape at 'Queensland International Exhibition’ in 1897 and was especially noted for his beach scenes which are quite typical of late nineteenth century Australian landscapes. Grainger favoured subjects in the nearby Brisbane and especially Cooloongatta and Tweed Heads. Subjects also include the Blue Mountains (in 1907) and the Barron Falls (1917). He also contributed to the QAS display at the Queensland National Association in 1903. He was a teacher and examiner at the Brisbane Technical College for some time and also painted stage settings.
He was survived by a daughter; his wife, a son and another daughter predeceased him.
