Artist Statement

Welcome! I'm Michael Hartstein.


I'm a California-born oil painter inspired by the bold beauty of nature. For over 50 years, I’ve been capturing the vibrant colors, energy, and movement found in the natural world—from sunlit coastlines and colorful florals to serene wildlife and dynamic landscapes.

My impressionistic style reflects a deep love for nature and a passion for color. Each piece I create is meant to bring joy, calm, and a touch of the outdoors into your space.

In recent years, I’ve been sharing my work at local art fairs, where I love meeting collectors face-to-face and seeing how people connect with my paintings. I paint full-time from my studio in Westlake Village, and my work has been shown from Southern California to Times Square in New York.

Whether you're an avid collector or discovering my art for the first time, I'm glad you're here—and I hope you find a piece that speaks to you.

Beverly Hills Art Fair

I got to talk to visitors from all over the world who love art

Exhibitions

2024

  • Ventura Art & Chalk Festival – Ventura, CA

  • Ojai, CA Art Fair – Ojai, CA

  • Studio City Art Fair – Studio City, CA

  • Channel Island Art Festival – Oxnard, CA

  • Beverly Hills Art Festival- Beverly Hills, CA

  • Mayors Art Fair- Agoura Hills, CA

  • Encino Terrace Gallery- Encino, CA

2023

  • Malibu Artapalooza Art Fair – Malibu, CA
    Award: Best Use of Color

  • Artlounge Gallery – Featured Paintings, CA

  • Beverly Hills Art Show – Beverly Hills, CA

  • NMVC Gallery – New York, NY
    Award: Best in Show
    Painting Displayed on Jumbotron

2019–2023

  • California Art League – Various Locations, CA

  • Westlake Art Guild Gallery – Westlake Village, CA
    Awards: Best in Show, 2nd Place, Honorable Mentions

  • Thousand Oaks Art Show – Thousand Oaks, CA
    Awards: 1st Place

  • Simi Valley Art Show – Simi Valley, CA
    Award: 2nd Place

Online Exhibitions

Lou-Ann Albiol-Ducos, Singular Art

“Michael Hatstein's portofolio demonstrates a great understanding of colour theory, with a rich and vibrant palette. This colour palette allows for his landscapes and inspired scenes to come to life and enhance the visual impact of his fauna and flora representations. The viewers are brought into immersive experiences thanks to the flowing compositions and intricate details. The brushstrokes are expressive and the layers almost impressionist. Hatstein manages to capture the beauty and raw essence of nature through his art.”

Explore the Collection