Born in Hampstead in 1946, Michael Quirke has stayed loyal to his roots. His love affair with London and his passion for this extraordinary city is evident in the bold and distinctive style that Michael has made his own over the past 40 years.

Quirke studied at St Martin’s School of Art from 1972-1975 where he was fortunate to meet the artists Frank Auerbach and Leon Kossoff who clearly became lasting influences on his work.However, it was the friendship and guidance given by Maurice Field, founder member of the Euston Road Group and Professor at the Slade School of Art, that encouraged Michael in his early years as a student and gave him the confidence to pursue his career as an artist.

The expressive style and original interpretations of London landmarks that Michael has painted over the years has made his work recognisable in collections worldwide.The use of thick pigmented impasto with strong confident brushwork is his signature. He sets himself free of all restraints to capture the crucial ingredients of London, often with witty visual renditions which make his work familiar and involving.

Michael moved to Cornwall 15 years ago and despite being surrounded by some of the most inspiring coastline and landscape in England he continues to paint London’s familiar streets,exposing the unique hustle and bustle of this wonderful city.