Olivia Spencer-Bower (1905-1982) was born in England, arriving in New Zealand as a teenager. She studied art at Canterbury University College before visiting England to extend her experience. After returning to New Zealand she studied at the Elam School of Fine Arts before basing herself in Canterbury. Throughout her life, she travelled extensively and her paintings reflect not only her love of New Zealand landscapes but also her interest in people at work and the background to their lives.