Michel Bell captures the moments that define legends — the triumph, intensity and emotion of sport, art and culture — transforming them into powerful works of oil on canvas.
Oil on canvas · palette knife
Based in Quebec City, Michel Bell paints with oil, using a spatula. Under the spatula, the material thickens and captures the light: sport becomes movement, tension, emotion — frozen in the relief of the paint.
He has presented his works to the greatest. His canvases have been displayed alongside Harry Belafonte, Sir Roger Moore, Serena Williams, Roger Federer and General Roméo Dallaire, and have contributed to important fundraising campaigns, notably for UNICEF.
Throughout his career, he has collaborated closely with Bob Martin, an award-winning sports photographer (Sports Illustrated, 10× Olympic Games), whose images inspire several of his paintings. Each piece is unique, entirely hand-painted.
A selection of oil paintings, painted with a spatula on a large canvas. Click to enlarge.
Galas, tributes and benefit events — a glimpse of the encounters that mark Michel Bell's journey.
Charity gala at the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec. A painting by Michel — Harry Belafonte in Rwanda — sold for $35,000 to benefit UNICEF.
Unveiling of the work “Vue sur Bond 007” alongside Sir Roger Moore, in support of UNICEF.
Photographed with Roger Federer at Wimbledon, June 2011 — “Athlete of the Decade.”
US Open, New York. After a first meeting at Wimbledon, Serena receives her painting signed by Michel Bell.
A tribute to the man and his courage, unveiled before 130 guests.
Grand Rire de Québec — the actor beside his portrait by Michel Bell.
Grand Rire de Québec — a work offered and signed, sold at auction.
Chris Evert Charities benefit gala, Florida.
City Lights at the Grand Théâtre de Québec, in the presence of Dolores Chaplin.
A tribute to the Quebec athlete, presented to highlight her Olympic bronze medal.
A monumental Wimbledon tribute — the largest work ever painted by the artist.
Associated painter of the Telus World Skins Game, Lévis.
Associated painter of the Telus World Skins Game, Lévis.
A tribute to the pitcher, winner of the Cy Young Award.
PRO-AM VIP, Académie Aliassime. Artwork presented to raise funds for up-and-coming Quebec City tennis players.
For any inquiries about Michel Bell's work, please contact us — it will be a pleasure to get in touch. Special custom artwork requests available.