Description
The painting ‘Flying Doctor’s Out Patients’ by Howard William Steer
‘Flying Doctor’s Out Patients’ by Howard William Steer show a RFDS rescue plane currying passengers on the wings of the plane. There are beds and a medical tent for patients, being inspired by the service’s vital role in providing healthcare to people in the outback. His Flying Doctor paintings evoke a sense of adventure, humour, and compassion, blending the grandeur of the Australian landscape with the heroic efforts of those who serve in the RFDS. Steer’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the connection between art, history, and the spirit of service.
Flying Doctor’s Out Patients is another great example of Steer’s gift for mixing laughter and love. It reminds us how vital the RFDS is to outback communities—and how art can celebrate both the land and the heroes who serve it.
The artist Howard William Steer (1947-current)
Howard William Steer is an Australian artist from Broken Hill, N.S.W. He is renowned for his evocative depictions of the Flying Doctor Service, a vital part of outback Australia. Steer’s paintings capture the rugged landscapes and heroic efforts of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) in reaching isolated communities with medical care. His works often feature the iconic aircraft soaring above vast, arid terrains, symbolizing both the isolation of Australia’s remote regions and the life-saving impact of the RFDS.
Throughout his career, Steer has painted the RFDS many times. He often shows their aircraft flying over wide, dry landscapes or landing in the middle of nowhere to help someone in need. His paintings are full of colour, humour, and heart, showing both the loneliness and strength of life in the outback.
Howard William Steer is well known for using comedy and bold images to tell real Australian stories. His unique style combines cartoon-like characters with strong colours of the Australian outback. He brings joy and energy to scenes that also carry deeper meanings.
