After graduating from Edinburgh College of Art, Michael found himself creating computer graphics for the BBC in Glasgow. But computer graphics became dull and repetitive. He felt the increasing "lure of watercolor dragged across paper and the tangible excitement of materials from which computers had estranged me," and left the job to pursue painting for its own sake. In 1994 he began painting full time and formed an association with a fine art card publishing company in the same year. Michael loves good food, wine, gardens and sports, all evidenced by his unusual portrayals of these subjects in his extraordinary paintings. London provides unending artistic stimulation with galleries, lush gardens, beautiful flower shops and eclectic eateries.

Of technique, Michael admits, "I am a messy worker! Working from life, I start with a charcoal drawing. I then use large watercolor brushes, often on a wet surface, which keeps the painting lively and fresh."

Curiously, living in the very urban environment of London doesn't cramp his style. He makes a point of visiting one country house and garden each month in addition to weekly visits to Paula Pryke's flower shop in Islington.