King Protea Painting

Michelle Gates is an emerging artist based in Krugersdorp, South Africa, known for her poetic approach to realism. Her journey began as a child, as she grew up in a close relationship with the natural world. Enthralled by encounters with all sorts of creatures and captivated by the beauty found in her environment, she passionately explores the natural world and transforms wonder into meaningful art. Her work is deeply influenced by wild life, focusing on themes of wisdom and loveliness. She draws inspiration from up-close and personal interactions with animals, always striving to capture the essence of these moments on canvas. Through deliberately staged compositions and an emotional, rather than literal palette, she manipulates realism to evoke spiritual and psychological resonance; using watercolour, ink, oil or pastels. Each piece reflects an ongoing dialogue between her conscious intentions and subconscious impulses, leading to a fusion of aesthetically pleasing elements. Michelle’s work explores creation’s treasures which are often overlooked. She gravitates towards the intimate, believing that it is in the finer details and smallest subtleties that the greatest riches are found. Her work explores the symbolic and deeper meaning of nature’s own language, which is communicated through shapes, colours and rhythm. A lifelong devotion to sharing her observations and experiences with others, in a meaningful way, has led Michelle to combine paintbrush and pen to transfer what is not easily said: a dance between artist and subject, beauty and meaning, form and feeling. To her, painting is a quiet act of worship and honouring the Creator. This pursuit allows her to provide a unique view of the wonderful world we live in – an approach that invites viewers to embark on their own introspective journeys, encouraging them to slow down, to glimpse into hidden marvels, inviting them to stay awhile, to look again and to re-connect with their surroundings. Philippians 4:8 – Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.