Michael Sole
Nature in Motion Through Energetic Expression
Michael Sole, born 1980, is an award-winning British painter whose work is a bold exploration of nature’s raw energy. Graduating with a BA in Fine Art from Wimbledon College of Art in 2008, Michael quickly established himself as a force within the contemporary art world. Known for his immersive approach to capturing the natural environment, his career is highlighted by multiple prestigious awards and exhibitions.
Artistic Journey
Michael’s work has been widely exhibited across England, France, Sweden, and the United States. He was awarded “Young Artist of the Year” by the Royal Society of Marine Artists (RSMA) in both 2009 and 2010, and his accolades continued with notable prizes such as The Arts Club Charitable Trust Award and the Lynn Painter-Stainers Award. His largest solo exhibition to date took place at The Mall Galleries in London in 2017, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Style and Techniques
Sole’s technique is a blend of physicality and spontaneity. Drawing inspiration from extreme weather conditions and the raw power of nature, his process involves painting without brushes—favouring methods like pouring, dripping, and shaking paint to allow its natural flow to guide the artwork. He uses a mix of oils, bitumen, PVA, and emulsion to create dynamic textures that mirror the organic chaos of the environments he studies. His concept of "Involuntaryism" encapsulates this idea, where the artist acts as a facilitator, guiding the materials while allowing the paint’s inherent properties to shape the final work.
View his collection online here at watergate.art
Inspiration
Michael often spends extended periods immersed in the landscapes he paints, fully absorbing the environment’s energy and atmosphere. His works are deeply inspired by the dramatic forces of nature, particularly storms and turbulent seas, which he brings to life through his dynamic application of paint. The raw emotion and power of his pieces are a direct reflection of his on-site experiences.
Notable Achievements
In addition to his awards, Michael Sole’s works are in high demand, attracting collectors from around the globe. His contributions to notable exhibitions, including group and solo shows at The Mall Galleries, have solidified his reputation as a leading contemporary landscape artist.
Discover Michael Sole Art
Explore Michael Sole’s dynamic and immersive landscapes by visiting his artist profile here at Watergate.Gallery
