Our alumni community is a vibrant and diverse group united by a passion for design innovation and a bold vision for shaping the future. Today, we are thrilled to introduce you to Michael Beckurts, a remarkable visual artist whose work epitomises the essence of creativity and connection.

#MeetOurAlumni: Michael Beckurts – A Journey of Passion and Creativity

Since graduating with a BA in Communication Design in 2021 from Cape Town Creative Academy, Michael Beckurts has carved a niche for himself as a full-time visual artist. His artistic repertoire spans oils, charcoal, watercolour, and digital media, each piece reflecting his profound connection to nature and people. Michael’s art is distinguished by rapid mark-making and meticulously crafted compositions.

Ever eager to explore new mediums, Michael often attends evening jazz sessions, combining his love of music with his keen observational skills, creating live sketches projected onto a wall. This innovative approach to art showcases his versatility and dedication to capturing the essence of his subjects in real-time.

Solo Exhibitions and Achievements

Michael’s impressive portfolio includes four solo exhibitions:

1. Archives at the Test Kitchen in Woodstock (2021)
2. Portraits of Nature, Portraits of Places at MOK Gallery, Muratie Wine Estate, Stellenbosch (2022)
3. Remember to Play at Openwine, Wale Street (2023)
4. Vivacity at the AVA Gallery, Church Street (2024)

He has also participated in the Baz Art International Public Arts Festival in Cape Town (2019 and 2023) and numerous group exhibitions. In 2023, he was part of the Sessions Programme for Visual Artists led by Dominique Edwards, culminating in the group exhibition Pomegranate in Woodstock, Cape Town. More recently, in May 2024, several of his artworks were showcased by the AVA Gallery at the RMB Latitudes Art Fair in Johannesburg.

Critic Ashraf Jamal beautifully encapsulates Michael’s impact: “Beckurts’ art draws us towards what we long for most – stillness, with all its tremulous vivacity. He is a marvel of promise in an embittered world.”

An Insight into Michael’s Practice

Q: Can you tell us a bit more about your practice?
A: I am a visual artist working across multiple media. My practice is divided between creating works for exhibitions and producing digital drawings and commissioned pieces for brands. Drawing has been a lifelong passion, and using ink, charcoal, and watercolor feels second nature to me. In 2023, I ventured into oils, a challenging but rewarding shift guided by the talented sculptor Dominique Edwards during a seven-month studio support program called Sessions.

Q: What made you choose this as a career?
A: Drawing has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I always knew my future lay in art. Studying Communication Design at the Cape Town Creative Academy, surrounded by high-end restaurants and entrepreneurs, provided early opportunities for commissioned work. The Test Kitchen restaurant hosted my first solo exhibition, a pivotal moment in my career. Pursuing art was a natural choice, one that brings me immense joy. I’m grateful for my parents’ support, encouraging my creativity from a young age with ample supplies and exposure to classic comics like Asterix and Obelix and Tintin, which fostered my visual literacy.

Q: What advice would you give to young illustrators or artists?
A: Always carry an A6 sketchbook and a thick fine liner. A sketchbook is both an asset and a tool, ready to capture inspiration whenever it strikes. Attend art exhibitions, explore new art on platforms like Pinterest, and immerse yourself in the art community. My journey began with life drawing evenings and connecting with fellow artists, which I highly recommend.

Expand Your Creative Potential: Five-Week Mentorship with Michael Beckurts

Now, you can enhance your drawing skills through a five-week mentorship with Michael Beckurts. This program is designed to introduce you to Michael’s unique artistic techniques and diverse drawing styles. Engage in a variety of tasks that challenge your perception and application of drawing, culminating in a final portfolio review provided as a recorded video.

Throughout the mentorship, participants will explore different facets of Michael’s approach—from live sketching in public spaces to detailed figure and cityscape drawings. Each week introduces a new dimension of drawing, encouraging experimentation with multiple mediums and perspectives. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or looking to enrich your drawing repertoire, this mentorship offers valuable insights and a pathway to mastering your craft under Michael’s expert guidance.

Q: What do you hope to contribute to participants in your mentorship?
A: The most valuable skill I can share is how to observe and approach drawing a subject or scene. By sharing my creative process, participants will develop their unique style rather than simply copying mine. The course emphasizes making drawings and providing constructive feedback. Art is about finding your voice and enjoying the process, and I am here to guide and support you on that journey.

Follow Michael Beckurts on Instagram: @michaelbeckurts @michaelbeckurts_paintings

Visit @heartsandstars_co on Instagram to apply for the mentorship on their website.