He’s been painting since he was in high school in 1958 but said he had only been painting every day for the last 35 years.

His method is to take photographs of scenes in Australia and abroad and then to go into his studio at the back of his home in Glen Innes and work on canvas with oils.

The show at the Gallery in the library complex opens on June 16 and runs until July 6.

The gallery said there would be a “gala opening” at 4 pm on June 16 “with refreshments provided (gold coin donation).”

The gallery’s promotional material says: “Mike’s paintings range from miniatures to large works and would make a good long-term investment or are perfect for Christmas gifts.

His subjects include buildings, birds and boats, and range from Glen Innes to Edinburgh, Norfolk Island to New Orleans, Lismore to Liechtenstein, and many places in between.”

He’s also a poet and this is one of his poems about a well-known Glen Innes landmark:

GREY STREET ROUNDABOUTS

In Grey Street, at its southern end

stands a great whale shaped basalt rock.

From here the street runs without bend,

but five circles a smooth run block.

One has a clock, given the town

by RSL in ninety nine.

A short paved track lets you walk down

to read its plaque of cast bronze fine.

Next roundabout’s a striking sight,

with a sculpture by artist Carl Cree.

Lit from within its wires at night,

echoes Balancing Rock, you see.

The third has an ornate central light,

with five globes on a single pole.

It’s attractive by day and night,

and plays a more historic role.

Number four commemorates

Glen Innes’ role in the Boer War.

Those soldiers’ names it clearly states.

Memories it will always store.

The final roundabout is clear

of ornament or features. Then

it serves a useful purpose here,

where Gwydir Highway comes to Glen.