Smith contributed three chapters to Bernard Smith's classic text Australian Painting 1788–1990 (Melbourne: Oxford University Press, 1991) and wrote lengthy studies of key works and themes in Australian art.
Smith's expertise was showcased through his substantial contributions to Bernard Smith's influential book Australian Painting 1788–1990 (Melbourne: Oxford University Press, 1991), which delved into the significance of key artworks and themes within the Australian art landscape.