Gay painter to help auction artwork to benefit Switchboard LGBT+ helpline

The painter, Michael Rumsby, is helping the Attitude Magazine Foundation (AMF) auction off one of his paintings with all the proceeds going to the Switchboard LGBT+ helpline.

The British artist, who is based in Saussignac, France, has donated his painting, ‘An Ocean Between Us’ to the AMF and will be helping auction it on Thursday (1 December) It’s been estimated that the painting could raise in excess of £10,000.

The auction, supported by Spirit of Soho, will take place on Thursday at the Clarendon Fine Art Gallery in Mayfair. Guests will be treated to cocktails and canapes, with a few friends of Attitude Magazine adding some extra sparkle to the proceedings.

On supporting the AMF Michael says, “I’ve always believed that business can be a force for good. So, as I begin to see increased success as an artist, I’m keen to use my gift to give back to communities I care about.”

Thursday also sees the launch of Michael’s exhibition at the Mayfair gallery, Vive ut Vivas, which will feature 25 new works exploring the extremely personal journey of a young gay man trapped in childhood and young adulthood where the social barriers of the ’80s and ’90s in rural England were too great to cross.

His first London solo show at Clarendon Fine Art in Mayfair, Respair, was described as one of ‘The Best Art Exhibitions in London in 2022” by Country & Townhouse magazine and praised by CondeNast Traveller as “a must-see exhibition.”

Michael Rumsby turned to paint full-time after a successful corporate career. He is perhaps best known for his paintings of still life and landscapes that are strongly informed by a close contemplation of nature. His paintings pulsate with colour and light, achieved through the layering of paints and reflecting an energetic, maximum expression.

He has exhibited extensively around the world including at The Oberoi Centre and Arabian Ranches in Dubai, Chapel Gallery in the UK, Majilis Gallery in Dubai, Whitewall, and Clarendon Fine Art across the gallery’s network of UK spaces. His work is held in corporate and private collections and he has exhibited work at the British Polo Day in Dubai and the Park Hyatt hotel.  

The Attitude Magazine Foundation was founded in 2018 and raises money for a wide range of LGBTQ causes. You can donate to the Foundation here.