Esmonde-White was born 1914 in Dundee, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. Not much is known about her upbringing, but she did experience formal training in the arts, starting from 1932, when she enrolled at the University of Natal. Here she was taught under O J Oxley until 1934. In 1935-36 Esmonde-White attended the Royal College of Art, in London, during her studies in London; she was awarded Herbert Baker Scholarship to study mural painting in London and Italy. Finally in 1937 she studied at the British School in Rome. Between 1938 and 1954 Esmonde-White was a member of the New Group. In 1951 she established and taught in the department of design at Michaelis School of Fine Art, in Cape Town, till 1960. During her career as an artist, she was involved in illustration of various children’s books. In 1959 she designed stage sets and costumes for ballet and opera performed at the University of Cape Town. In 1963 she was involved in stage and costume designs for CAPAB dramas. This is an aspect which influenced her work, instilling a sense of the theatrical in her use of often dramatically stylised compositions and use of warm, strong colour. Esmonde-White’s works are primarily figure compositions, often focusing on the subject of women and their actions. Esmonde-White’s painting changed over the years, her earlier works more linear in concept with less sensuous forms. Gradually, through her practice, the strong outline faded, and more emphasis was put on the painterly quality in large coloured areas. Her works are primarily in oil, with large amounts of graphic works including African inspired woodcuts. The dramatic colour use and expressive brush work is characteristic of Esmonde-White’s painting.