Dunedin born artist Simon Williams began painting while living in Sydney during the late 1980s. He was strongly influenced by artists of the Heidelberg School and renowned Australian artist Kasey Sealy. Paintings produced during this time resulted in Municipal Art Prizes from the Councils of Ryde, Lanecove and Paramatta.

On his return to New Zealand Williams based himself in Auckland.
Around 1999 the artist began producing triptychs. These large unframed oil on canvas works allowed Williams to produce scenes on a panoramic scale.

His Exhibition of 2001 From North to South featured works from both Islands. His 2003 exhibition Wish You Were Here was an outstanding success resulting in a near sellout.

Works have been added to the collection of the Former U.S. President Bill Clinton after his visit to New Zealand in May 2002.