Although my subject matter may look familiar it most likely isn't. This is the power of realism, a way to transport viewers into an imaginative and constructed setting where they discover a perceived meaning and association to the landscape.
I am interested in humanity's perception of the landscape. My work explores the notion of place-making, the way humans have historically modified the terrain, and positioned within it man made objects with a sense of entitlement and purpose.
New Zealand is a young nation and the way we've built upon, fought over, scarred, and altered the terrain is very much a recent activity in the scheme of the landscape’s historical morphology.
Who really owns this land? What is the vernacular landscape?
My painting process is generative and minimalist. Compositions are partly planned imaginations. Each sitting begins by re-blending raw primary colours from scratch and the work evolves while I respond to cues within the paint strokes. The result is a subtle yet imperfect finish made up of a diverse spectrum of colours.
I believe we can learn a lot about our spiritual connection to the landscape by experiencing a place in person and through the painting process deciphering the underlying genius loci of the landscape.
B a c k s t o r y
Michael is a Wellington based artist born in New Zealand in 1988. He developed his passion for art while attending Auckland Boys Grammar School where he was awarded the Matthew Koefoed Memorial Art Scholarship in his final year and received invitations to various shows around Auckland.
In 2011 he joined Foenander gallery in Auckland, and has since featured in design publications such as URBIS and HABITUSLIVING Australia, and in notable shows including a public art installation at the Wellington LUX Light Festival, The Nomadic Art Gallery, and the Molly Morpeth Canaday Awards.
Michael has a Masters in Architecture from Victoria University of Wellington. He currently practises fine arts and works as an urban design consultant at Studio Pacific Architecture.
H i s t o r y
2020
| The Nomadic Art Gallery -"Alienation" Digital Exhibition |
2019
| Finalist Molly Morpeth Canaday Award - Whakatane. |
2017
| LUX Light Festival Wellington - Sculpture installation |
2016
| Featured, The Kiwi Diary. |
2015
| Featured, The Kiwi Diary. |
2014
| Featured: URBIS - The Art of Living - Issue 80. |
2013
|
NKB Gallery Mt Eden - Wunderkammer Exhibition. |
2012
|
NKB Gallery Mt Eden - Illuminations Exhibition. |
2011
|
Participant at Auckland Grammar Art Exhibition. |
2010
|
Participant at Auckland Grammar Art Exhibition. |
2009 | Participant at Kings College Sale of Fine Arts Exhibition. |
2008 | WOW (World of Wearable arts finalist) entry with Lynaire Kibblewhite. |
2007 | Participant at Auckland Grammar School Art Exhibition. |
2006
| Matthew Koefoed Memorial Art Scholarship. |
2005
| 6th form art prize Auckland Grammar School.
|
2004 | 5th form art prize Auckland Grammar School. |
2003 | 4th form art prize Auckland Grammar School. |