About Mike

Mike Kowalski's paintings draw inspiration from the natural surroundings of Shoreham and the cityscapes of Melbourne, Australia. He paints from observation, sketching in charcoal, oil, and watercolor to capture the moods and images of the natural and built world around him, preferring to paint outdoors. Born and raised in California, Mike started entering art shows as a teen and eventually earned a BFA from Utah State University. He lived and worked as an illustrator in California and lived on Marrowstone Island, Washington, for many years before moving to Australia permanently in 2014.

See more on Mike’s website here, and Instagram here.

Awards & Accomplishments

Mike Kowalski most recently won awards at the 100th National Watercolor Society International Exhibition, and the Past Presidents Awards from NWS. His watercolors were exhibited in Italy, Greece, Japan, and Russia from 2019 to 2021. Mike has been a consecutive exhibitor in the prestigious Fabriano Biennial, Fabriano, Italy. Mike’s work is influenced by John Singer Sargent, Emile Kosa Jr, Maynard Dixon, and Australian artist Harold Herbert. His other awards include:

• "Artists Choice" at Sonoma Plein Air

• 1st place at the Pacific Northwest Plein Air Invitational

• Thomas Somerscales Maritime Award (VAS)

• Silver Medal of Honor at the 148th AWS International Exhibition in New York 2015

Artist Statement

It is easy for me to find subject matter anywhere. I look for exciting compositions and effects of light or color in and around my home. This past year, I have concentrated exclusively on my on-site watercolor and oil sketches. Referring to these sketches makes my work much more personal, freeing me of the constraints a photo contains. I always carry my sketchbook and spend between 5 minutes to an hour working up a sketch, including color notes, observations, figure studies, and maybe time, date, and location. This way, I keep much more of my original mental picture intact. If I am not working in the studio from sketches, I will paint on-site outdoors. It is rare to duplicate that “outdoor” feel in the studio, but I try to get that same energy by limiting my painting time and materials.

Drawing is an essential element of my work. It is my immediate way of interpreting the world. Sometimes, when I pull out my paints and set up my palette, the moment I want to capture is gone. Drawing is very evident among the artists I admire. I appreciate seeing the pencil work or initial brush drawing in a painting. It gives me one more insight into how an artist thinks.

Mike’s Artworks

If you would like to enquire about purchasing an artwork, please contact The Brandon Circle here.