Collection: Michael Rumsby

Find Out More About Michael Rumsby

Artist Genre

Michael Rumsby's work is a unique blend of expressive, abstract art with a strong presence of landscape. His paintings, often large-scale and impactful, are celebrated for their dynamic interaction of color and light. Growing up on the Suffolk coast, the ever-changing views of the North Sea significantly influenced his artistic vision. This deep connection with the landscape is evident in his work, where natural elements serve as a continuous source of inspiration. Michael's art transcends simple landscape portrayal, instead offering an emotional and sensory experience which he speaks about on the 'Considering Art' podcast here.

Artist Technique

Michael employs a vibrant array of mixed media in his artistic process, including oil, pencil, charcoal, pastels, and ink. His technique involves building multiple layers and textures on the canvas, creating an expressive and vital world of color and light. Often painting on location, Michael captures the immediate and bright colors of the landscape, which influences his palette and the final composition. His preparation for each piece involves creating a portfolio of photographs and sketches, and committing the colors and quality of light to memory before returning to his studio. This meticulous process results in paintings that are a collage of different elements brought together to form one cohesive landscape. Michael’s approach is almost unconscious, guided by the sensorial experience of his surroundings, with a strong focus on color choice and mark-making.

Achievements

Michael Rumsby's transition from a high-flying corporate career to a full-time artist is a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft. After studying art and art history at the University of Lancaster, Michael climbed the corporate ladder, eventually becoming Global Communication Director for an international firm based in Paris. His extensive travel and exposure to diverse cultures and landscapes continuously fed his creative mill. In 2010, Michael decided to leave the corporate world to focus entirely on painting, a decision he has never regretted. You can learn more about this in Michael's interview with Attitude Magazine here.

Michael’s work is held in private collections across Europe, The Middle East, The US, and Australia. He has undertaken commissions for prestigious companies, including Risk Capital Partners, who display his painting in their Mayfair boardroom. Michael was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) in 2014, recognizing his contributions to the arts. His exhibitions have spanned the globe, from the Oberoi Centre and Majilis Gallery in Dubai to Clarendon Fine Art in London and Chapel Gallery in the UK. He has also exhibited at significant events like the British Polo Day in Dubai and at the Park Hyatt hotel.

Living with his husband, Lee McNeal, in the southwest of France, Michael continues to create and inspire through his art. They run a successful boutique hotel, where Michael hosts expressive painting courses in the summer months. His commitment to art extends beyond personal success; he actively supports charitable causes, including the Attitude Magazine Foundation and the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Michael’s journey is a profound example of how embracing one’s true passion can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.