Hi, I am Michael. Thank you for viewing my gallery.
My artistic journey began 30 years ago when I started to draw and paint trees and cottages. I consider myself a prolific painter whose interest in art was perhaps inherited from my father. He was an art teacher and an accomplished artist who mentored me during the early part of my career.
Oil paint is my preferred medium and I have developed various landscape styles and techniques over the years. Painting spontaneously using a palette knife is my usual method. I like to establish values first, colors second, then apply paint thick and textured but with emphasis also on color, contrast and depth. I rely on instinct to guide me towards the end of a painting after strictly following the rules of composition in the beginning.
Living in the Great Southern region of Western Australia, I am fortunate to be surrounded by a variety of beautiful scenery. Being greatly inspired by the many river scenes, karri trees, country cottages and ever changing seascapes in this amazing and unique part of the world. It where the forest meets the sea.
Other sources of inspiration come from North Western Australia including the Kimberley region, the golden outback and the beautiful Karijini National Park.
I like to paint or sketch outdoors whenever possible as I believe that being among nature enhances perception. ''Plein Air'' painting has been an important part of my learning process. It has taught me much about composition and the discipline required of painting colors and values quickly and accurately before the light changes.
