Michael S. Vieira (b. 1974, Lowell, Massachusetts) is an American oil painter based in Lowell. He studied at the prestigious School of the Museum of Fine Arts and honed his craft as an apprentice under renowned artist Paul Ingbretson for several years. Vieira is best known for his cityscapes, with a particular focus on his hometown of Lowell, where he finds inspiration in the rich history and timeless character of the city. His work reflects a blend of classical techniques and personal expression that speaks to both tradition and the grit of urban life.
The subject matter of Vieira's work often centers on the quiet dignity of aging buildings, capturing the intricate details and textures of Lowell's neighborhoods. His paintings reflect a deep respect for the city and the resilience of its structures. Vieira's artistic approach is defined by his ability to evoke a sense of place and memory, using light and color to explore themes of history, faith, and multiculturalism. Notable projects and series include his ongoing exploration of urban landscapes, in which he seeks to reveal the overlooked layers of Lowell, encouraging viewers to appreciate its diversity and complexity that shape both the city and its inhabitants.
Michael S. Vieira's work has been featured in numerous exhibitions and has found its way into private collections both nationally and internationally. His contributions to the art world have garnered recognition for his ability to create high-quality art that resonates with beauty, history. With a profound sense of gratitude for his craft, Vieira continues to create work that connects with viewers on a deep, personal level.
Michael S. Vieira
Born in Lowell, Massachusetts USA 1974
Lives and works in Lowell, MA. USA
Education:
2005-2011 Apprenticeship under Paul Ingbretson, The Ingbretson Studio of Drawing & Painting, Manchester, NH. USA
1995-2000 Diploma in Fine Arts with a Fifth year Certificate, The School of The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA. USA
Group exhibitions:
2025 Color Color Color, Art league of Lowell, Lowell, MA. USA
2024 Annual Juried Members Exhibit 2024, Whistler House Museum of Art, Lowell, MA. USA
DRAW LOWELL confluence, Whistler House Museum of Art, Lowell, MA. USA
Four by Four for Education, The Brush Art Gallery & Studios, Lowell MA. USA
2023 Annual Juried Members Exhibit 2023, All Creatures Great & Small, Whistler House Museum of Art, Lowell, MA. USA
In the Light of the past: The Students of Paul Ingbretson, Whistler House Museum of Art, Lowell, MA. USA
2021 Annual Spur Art Guild Exhibition 2021, Spur, TX. USA
2019 Annual Spur Art Guild Exhibition 2019, Spur, TX. USA
2015 Lowell As We See It: A Juried Members Exhibit, Whistler House Museum of Art, Lowell, MA. USA
2013 Lowell Open Studios: A Citywide Celebration of Art, Gates Block Studios, Lowell, MA. USA
2011 Academic Artists Association 62nd National Juried Exhibition Springfield, MA. USA
2010 Ingbretson students Selected Works, Hearle Gallery, Chatham MA. USA
2009 Annual Regional Painting Competition The President's Gallery, The Guild of Boston artists, Boston, MA. USA
2008 The Banks Gallery, New London, NH. USA
2007 22nd Annual Art Conservatory Art Classic, Bosque Conservatory, Clifton, TX. USA.
2005 2nd Annual Artist's Show: The Art Gallery of Kingwood, Kingwood, TX. USA
2004 Artist's Show: The Art Gallery of Kingwood, Kingwood, TX. USA
2003 Faculty Exhibition, Art Center of Chelmsford, Chelmsford, MA. USA
2001 Traveling Scholars 2000, The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA. USA
1999 “EncontroAristico” Comunidades Portuguesas; Fundacao da Juventude; Porto, Portugal.
Portuguese American Artists, Groupo Amigos da Terceira, Pawtucket, RI. USA
1998 Group show, The Piano factory, Boston, MA. USA
Public Collection:
City of Lowell, Lower Locks parking garage, Lowell, MA. USA
Private Collections:
Michael S Vieira features in various national and international private collections, including The United States, Canada, Portugal and Brazil
Awards:
2024 Peter Kostoulakos Award, Whistler House Museum of Art, Lowell, MA. USA
2000 MFA Traveling Scholarship, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA. USA
Press and Publications:
Peter Currier “HIDDEN MURAL UNVEILED Image depicting the Crucifixion being restored by Lowell artist” THE SUN 2025
Kay Ellington “MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS: Michael S. Vieira on the art of living in Spur” The Texas Spur 2019
Melissa Sambrooks “Piture perfect” Houston Chronicle 2004
Sarah Clark, “Art Gallery of Kingwood features local artists” Kingwood observer 2003
Professional Contributions:
Teaching painting, drawing, conducting workshops and demonstrations in museums, galleries, and art centers