C. D. Smith was born in Ocala, Florida and spent his childhood on a farm near Brooksville. When he was 7 years old his family moved to a fish camp on the Gulf Coast near Weeki Wachee Springs. He had a wonderful time living in an area rich with natural beauty, fishing and swimming. He went to college at Florida State University.
(C. D. on the right in the photo below)

Following four years of college and six months study at the National Gallery of Art, C.D. Smith embarked on an intense, self-directed study of drawing that lasted ten years. During this time, in conjunction with studio work, he performed independent research of the literature on traditional materials and techniques of drawing and painting. This included regular travel to the major museums and galleries of the eastern United States to study master works.

For the last 25 years he has focused upon the medium of watercolor, exploring the potentials of the finest handmade papers and superior natural pigments.

C. D. spent many years painting in St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, studying from nature. The refuge is an oasis of natural Florida habitats, and has been a wellspring of inspiration for C.D.'s work.

His paintings are created with Rublev Colour Watercolors by Natural Pigments of California, on handmade 400lb. rough Dominion Watercolor Paper from St. Armand Mill in Montreal, Canada.