Five Unique Benefits of Plein Air Painting
Michael Alford can’t do without the discipline of painting outdoors. Here he outlines the five unique benefits of plein air painting and explains why he couldn’t be the artist he is without it.
Michael Alford’s Lightweight Plein Air Kits for the Road
Light, lighter, lightest. Michael Alford reveals the contents of his four main setups for plein air painting in any situation, from the wilds of Oman to your local park.
Paint Media for Plein Air Painting: Compared
Image: Michael Alford plein air painting in Amorgos, Greece. By Michael Alford For me, plein air painting is a natural thing to do. It combines my passion for the great outdoors with my love of painting, and it’s fair to say I’ve been doing it most of my life. The...
The Nearest Guard: A Portrait of Lieutenant Colonel Rory Ingleby-Mackenzie
Michael Alford discusses a recent commission for a portrait of Lieutenant Colonel Rory Ingleby-Mackenzie. Who is this portrait of?Lieutenant Colonel Rory Ingleby-Mackenzie. After serving in the Scots Guards, he served as Standard Bearer of His Majesty’s Body...
New London Cityscapes 2023: Capturing Moments of Transition in an Ever-Changing City
“I painted the majority of the cityscapes during the late winter/early spring. I favour this transitional time of year for scenes of London because the quality of light is interesting to me. The changeable weather adds a degree of mystery to familiar places and prospects.” Michael Alford
2023 Summer Solo Show at Wimbledon Fine Art
Paintings inspired by home, paintings inspired by travel. The cityscapes, city scenes, beach scenes and travel paintings in Michael Alford’s latest solo exhibition provide a glimpse into the varied life and limitless curiosity of a painter at large in the world.
What to Expect When You Commission a Painting
Thinking of commissioning a painting? Here’s a step-by-step description of what to expect when you commission a bespoke work from Michael Alford.
More Context, More Drama: Evolutions in Painting the Female Nude
Objects and props, theatrical lighting and the hint of hidden narratives mark an evolution in Michael Alford’s approach to painting the female nude. A new show at Panter and Hall’s Pall Mall gallery showcases his insights into creating scenes that blend the artificial and the natural with dramatic impact.
Musical Offerings: Michael Alford On Why He Loves to Paint Musicians
Michael Alford talks about the painterly choices behind his new collection of musician paintings at the Red Rag Gallery, Bath. He explains his fascination for depicting artists engaged in the act of performance—and reveals his musical crushes, the groups he dreams of painting one day.
Commemorating Gurkha Service in the Falklands
The Brigade of Gurkhas chose to commemorate the 40 year anniversary of the Falklands War by commissioning a painting from Michael Alford. Learn how he liaised with the men who were present on the day to recreate an image of the battle for Mt. William that’s true to their memories and represents historical fact.