[1] While still in Dublin, Whitehead began his career in drawing, with a style that is likened to James Arthur O'Connor and Thomas Sautelle Roberts.
[1] Whitehead died at his home 50 Punt Road, Prahran, Melbourne, on 21 April 1881.
[4] Whitehead had established himself as the foremost picture framer in Melbourne by 1860, known for his highly ornate frames with floral decorations.
Among the clients to his framing business were Louis Buvelot, Nicholas Chevalier, and Eugene von Guérard.
[3] His work focused on the rich landscapes with trees and ferns, with a high degree of botanical detail.