Florence Aline Rodway (1881-1971) was an esteemed artist hailing from Hobart, born on November 11, 1881, to Leonard Rodway and Louisa Susan (née Phillips). Her artistic journey commenced at the Hobart Technical College, where she delved into painting, modelling, and life-drawing under the tutelage of Ethel Nicholls and Benjamin Sheppard between 1897 and 1901. During this period, she also encountered Mildred Lovett as a fellow student.
In 1902, her talent garnered recognition when she secured a four-year scholarship to the prestigious Royal Academy schools in London. There, under the guidance of renowned masters such as Sargent, Bacon, Solomon, Leslie, and Storey, her artistic prowess flourished. Despite passing her exams with flying colors, financial constraints compelled her return to Australia in 1906. Settling in Sydney after a brief visit to Hobart, she enriched her skills by enrolling in Julian Ashton's evening classes.
Over the subsequent years, Rodway explored various artistic mediums, from oil studies to black and white illustrations, even delving into mural designs. However, it was her mastery in pastel and later miniatures that truly distinguished her. Her exceptional portrait-studies in pastel earned her accolades, notably winning honors in the Society of Artists' annual exhibitions of 1909 and 1910.
Rodway's portfolio expanded to include numerous commissioned portraits, capturing the essence of notable figures like (Sir) Adrian Knox, (Dame) Nellie Melba, and J. F. Archibald. Her reputation as a portrait artist soared, evidenced by the acquisition of her works by esteemed institutions such as the Sydney Art Gallery and the University of Sydney.
A stalwart of the artistic community, Rodway exhibited regularly and contributed significantly to organizations like the Society of Women Painters and the Society of Artists. Despite her marriage to civil engineer Walter Moore in 1920, she continued to showcase her work internationally, participating in exhibitions in London and Melbourne.
Returning to her roots in Hobart around 1932, Rodway established a home studio, where she continued to create and exhibit her art alongside fellow Tasmanian artists. Renowned for her ability to capture the character of her subjects, her legacy endures in national and state collections, a testament to her enduring impact on Australian art. Florence Rodway passed away on January 23, 1971, leaving behind a rich artistic heritage survived by her daughter.