Allyson Hamblett profiles fellow artist, Michael Nathan

Michael Nathan, Lighthouse, 2017

Michael Nathan in the studio

Michael attends Studio Practice on Wednesday morning at Māpura Studios for about 4 years. Studio Practice is aimed at our more experienced, long-term artists. They work in a self-directed manner, identifying and developing ideas of their own choosing; they are encouraged to gather resources and undertake simple research towards their work. Many of the artists become very enthused about this – and are dedicated in their research, exploring new ideas and ways of working not only in the studio but at home.

Michael won the prestigious first prize at the 2019 IHC Art Awards, and was flown down to the awards in Wellington. The artwork, Lost in Space, took 2 years to draw without the use of rulers or stamps.

Michael loves drawing and painting, while listening to music, “it takes me to another place”.

Michael Nathan, Lost in Space, 2019

One painting was inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat. “I saw it in a book of Basquiat and did my own painting [called “After Basquiat”] It was different to anything I tried before. I usually do realistic painting. I love art. Coming to Māpura is good for me, and my art.”