Michael Schur

Michael Schur, born in Cape Town in 1932, developed a distinctive painting style shaped by both architecture and music. His early work drew inspiration from Gothic structures, especially the dramatic lines of flying buttresses and the rich colour effects of stained-glass windows.

Over time, music became a central influence in his art, introducing a sense of rhythm and movement visible in his brushwork. His compositions rely heavily on colour, texture, and strong structural lines. Schur often begins with an underpainting in earthy tones, gradually building layers of paint. These lower layers subtly show through, enriching the final surface with depth and luminosity.

This layered technique suits his subjects—such as musicians and dancing figures, which naturally convey motion and energy. In his landscapes, he uses planes of colour and directional lines to echo the rhythms found in nature. Across all his work, texture and layering create a sense of flow, while perspective is achieved not only through line but also through the buildup of paint itself.

Schur’s approach reflects a commitment to traditional European painting values, focusing on genres like landscape, still life, and figure studies. His work interprets contemporary South African scenes with a thoughtful, grounded style. As art critic Robyn Sassen describes, he is “a painter’s painter,” dedicated to craftsmanship and enduring artistic traditions.

Reference:

Michaelschur.co.za. (2026). Michael Schur South African artist, About the Artist. [online] Available at: https://www.michaelschur.co.za... [Accessed 23 Apr. 2026].

Schur, M. (2024). Michael Schur | 6 Artworks at Auction | MutualArt. [online] Mutualart.com. Available at: https://www.mutualart.com/Arti... [Accessed 24 Apr. 2026].

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