Born on one of the largest East London council estates, his grandfather was an amateur artist and had the biggest influence on his life. Learning to see thing in a different way, Mike began to draw and paint.

After attending Bedford Park School, and leaving with virtually no qualifications save Art, Mike was accepted on his portfolio to Barking Art School, attending an art foundation then 3-Dimensional Art and Design.

Mikes is commissioned by designers architects and corporations to produce site specific works of art. He also enjoys being part of art groups and submitting to exhibitions.

Mike's artworks are produced according to his client’s brief, with his own main interest being modern British subjects. From abstract to figurative he does not restrict his use of materials and methods used in the image making process and enjoys the challenges that this brings.

Mikes main working method is mixed medium on MDF Paper or Canvas. Drawing in pencil, marker, pen, paint or Biro is nearly always the starting point for the creation of any of his artworks. The basic drawing is still very evident in the finished works. He tends not to do many preparatory drawings - preferring a more direct approach. Mike says, “…for me I think this way of working gives an immediacy and fresh look to the finished piece.”

Mike works hard to maintain the energy in the works as they are first laid down. He may do several versions of the same image over time. Mike says, “…I am definitely not precious about the works. If they don’t work, they are in the bin, or put aside to be re-visited and worked upon again later.”

Mike loves Art history and some works reference this in a playful way. His work and subject matter is always evidently created in the 21st century. The way his artworks are framed is also important to Mike in order to give a contemporary feel.

He has exhibited in: London, The Royal Academy of Arts, The Mall Gallery, The Brick Lane Gallery, The Menier Gallery, Christies Fine Art London. Chelsea Harbour Design Centre. Southwest, The Victoria Art Gallery. 44AD Gallery Bath, The Corinium Museum Cirencester, The Paragon Gallery, Sixteen Gallery, Spring Gallery, Cheltenham, Broadway Museum Gallery Broadway, The RWA Bristol.

www.urbanwall.com

Mike Skinner (@art.urbanwall) • Instagram photos and videos