Michael Escott

Originally from the small river town of Tiltonsville, Ohio, Michael Escott is a passionate and dedicated artist who brings a lifetime of creativity and hands-on craftsmanship to his work. Now retired and living just blocks from the Mississippi River, Michael spends his days immersed in painting and woodworking, fully embracing his artistic journey.

 

Michael has been creating art his entire life, but it was 25 years ago that he discovered his deep love for watercolor painting. While he painted recreationally for decades—often after long shifts in manufacturing plants—he began painting full-time after retiring in 2024. This transition has allowed him to sharpen his skills, explore new techniques, and truly evolve as a professional artist.

Michael is known for his wet watercolor method, a style that lets the water help guide the painting process. "I like to let the water do some of the work," he says, reflecting his fluid and experimental approach. He embraces the unpredictable nature of watercolor, finding excitement in how the pigments settle and dry, creating results that are often surprising and beautiful.

 

His favorite subjects include landscapes, especially those featuring rivers, lakes, and water scenes. Living near the Mississippi has made plein air painting a regular part of his practice. Whether he’s observing barges, bridges, or quiet waterfront moments, Michael captures his surroundings in a way that is both realistic and deeply personal. “I paint what I enjoy seeing. It’s a way to share moments with others,” he explains.

 

Michael also enjoys working in acrylic and oil, and his paintings reflect his passion for color, nature, and authentic observation. Over the years, his work has earned honorable mentions in national and international art competitions, as well as local contests throughout Missouri and Illinois. In October 2025, he was honored with the Steven Viorel Merit Award at the ORiGINALE exhibit hosted by the Hannibal Arts Council for his captivating watercolor painting, Flowers in Setting Sun. This recognition highlights both his mastery of the medium and his ability to capture the quiet beauty of the world around him.

 

To Michael, art is a lifelong pursuit. He continues to create every day, always chasing the joy and challenge that watercolor painting brings.

 

Explore Michael Escott’s artwork gallery below and experience the beauty, color, and life captured in every brushstroke.