Michael paints primarily outdoors in oil, pastel or gouache, choosing locations from the American Southwest to Downeast Maine to the Canadian Maritimes, and has participated in a number of national plein air events. Michael was awarded Master Pastellist status by Pastel Artists Canada in 2008, and he is a Signature Member of the American Impressionist Society and the Pastel Society of America. His paintings have appeared in many art publications and are part of corporate and private collections. A well-known workshop teacher, Michael is also a frequent contributing writer for Artist's Magazine, Pastel Journal, Watercolor Artist and PleinAir Magazine. He’s also the author of several books, including Beautiful Landscape Painting Outdoors: Mastering Plein Air.