Born in Scotland, William Menzies-Gibb moved to New Zealand in 1876, and studied painting from his father (John Gibb), as well as at the National Gallery School in Melbourne (1877-1879). He exhibited in two Melbourne exhibitions 1880-1881 and 1888-1889 before returning to Christchurch in 1882 where he became well known as a Canterbury artist. Menzies-Gibb is mainly known for his pastoral scenes, however he also painted some portraits (including one of Sir Julius Vogel). In 1910 Menzies visited England and also painted there. He is represented widely throughout New Zealand including the AAG, Hawkes Bay Mus, Hocken, Te Papa, and Turnbull.