225 - Chasing Perfection through Colour (Portrait of Michael Harding)

Michael Harding started milling paint in 1982; the year I was born. 40 years on, I felt compelled to document the convergence of these two life paths by painting his portrait in his own materials, which I use and admire daily. I first spoke to Michael and his family about the idea of painting his portrait back in 2022, I travelled to meet him at the colour Mill, during that time I was able to see first hand oil paint being produced and to see Michael at work. I took many photographs and completed some sketches of him before deciding on the final composition and completing the painting back in my studio.