As a child growing up in Utah, Idaho, and Oregon, Michael Neilson was never far from the outdoors, a love of which is evident in his painting today. Nature and everyday life continue to be a source of inspiration for Neilson, whose subjects often include street scenes, flowers, and parks. His artwork calls upon bold use of color to describe light and atmosphere.

 

While studying at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, Neilson often visited the Art Institute, where he drew influence from the works of Sargent, Monet, Pissaro, Zorn, Sorolla, Turner, and Benson. American Academy of Art instructor Irving Shapiro introduced Neilson to watercolor and the brilliance of light that could be achieved with the medium. Another influence from Neilson’s time in Chicago was renowned American painter Richard Schmid, who emphasized the importance of painting from life