Christopher Orr was born in Melbourne in 1945. He spent his formative years in South East Melbourne before commencing study in print and graphic design in 1961 at Caulfield Technical College (now Monash School of Art) completing a Diploma of Art in 1964. As a commercial artist he practiced designing, illustrating and painting prior to leaving for Europe in 1970.

His working holiday consisted of 3½ years as a designer/illustrator in Norway, where he met his wife, Siri, before moving to London to head a small design practice in Kensington for a further 2½ years. Upon his return to Australia in 1976, he and three associate designer/artists set up a design group consulting to some of Australia's largest corporations, private companies and government agencies over an 18-year period.

Chris and his wife decided for lifestyle reasons in 2000 to move to Hobart, where he continues his love of painting and printmaking whilst maintaining a presence with corporate design work.

"I feel inspired to paint that 'play of light', to capture that moment - mine being an emotional response to the subject matter. I have an equal love for both Figurative art and Landscape painting. At times combining the two." - Chris Orr.

His keen interest in Hobart's landmarks and environs continues to flourish and drive his output. Chris along with his family have travelled extensively in Asia, Europe and America.