Mike Shaw is an artist whose work has grown out of a passion to communicate the beauty of the Outer Cape land and seascapes that have always been a part of his life. Summering in Wellfleet in a cottage his grandfather originally built in the 1930s, Mike has long been drawn to the peaceful and rustic scenes that define this area. Of particular interest to him are the times of day, early morning and late afternoon, when the light is brilliant yet soft and the shadows are long. “I find these times full of the emotions that so many people can relate to, from the hope and expectations of a new day to the peaceful and reflective stillness of day’s end. I receive tremendous joy in capturing these places and moments that often seem so fleeting. My work is an extension of some of the most cherished memories I have of the Outer Cape.”

Though largely self-taught, Mike’s “representational realism” has been strongly inspired by the two generations of 19th century artists known as the Hudson River School. Focusing on the beauty of the landscape there was a commonly held sense amongst these artists that the majesty of God could be revealed and honored in capturing on canvas the handiwork of His creation.

Mike holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in biology and pre-med studies from Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania as well as a Master’s degree in theology from the Eastern Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He lives with his wife Lisa in a converted carriage house in beautiful Lancaster, Pennsylvania.