Kelliher Award winning artist Michael Blow began painting professionally in 1975 having gained a Diploma of Fine Art at Elam School of Art in Auckland. He returned to England to continued his training at the Sir John Cass School of Fine Arts in London.

A dedicated oil painter, Michael's work encompasses wide ranging subject matter with his still life paintings being particularly well received. Stylistically representational, these traditional works are reminiscent of Flemish table paintings. As with 17th Century European works, fruit and musical instruments feature along with objects of silver and brass. Reflections are skillfully captured, while a sense of comfort is derived from the portrayal of everyday objects.

Michael is an inveterate traveller who constantly gains fresh insights and inspiration through his journeys. In 1987 he returned from Zaire and Zimbabwe with material for a solo exhibition entitled Images of Africa. This was followed by a painting trip to Singapore, London and Paris where material was gathered for a Wellington exhibition at McGregor Wright's Gallery. Early 1997 saw the artist working in Melbourne, Australia and later that same year he visited Bali.

In May 2003, a successful exhibition of 30 works was held at International Art Centre. This was followed in 2005 by a major solo exhibition - 'European Moods' which showcased a magnificent collection of works. Much of the material for this exhibition had come from Michael's 2004 return to Europe where he revisited some of his favourite places. Many of these chosen destinations had featured in paintings over Michael's 30 year career as one of New Zealand's leading professional artists.