Artist Bio

Michael Thomas Bates was raised in an environment surrounded by art and taught himself to paint by observing his father, who is a respected oil painter.  Michael’s paintings usually include animals as subject manner.


Artist Statement

 My oil paintings tend to include nature in one way or other, because of my passion for wildlife.  When I paint birds it is like I am immortalizing old friends on canvas.  The form of their flight and detail of every feather is important.  My intention is not to only create a painting pleasing to my viewers, but to honor my subject being painted for the wonder and beauty they add to the world.