Oil on canvas board, 26 x 16cm (image), 39 x 29cm (frame). Signed lower left 'M. G. Nicholas', titled with artist label on reverse. A masterful painting of three birds mid-flight, with a muted blue background suggesting early morning or evening. Previously authenticated (gallery sticker on reverse) by the Design Arts Centre, Spring Hill, who exhibited the artist's work for a number of years. Available for local pickup, otherwise courier to be arranged and paid for by bidder. Mike Nicholas was born in Hayes, west London in 1942, relocating to Australia in 1960, where he studied under Arthur Evan Read (Brisbane). Nicholas spent a number of years working in Central and South Western Queensland, resulting in a strong attachment to the bush - its landscape, wildlife and people - that emerges prominently in his artwork. The recipient of numerous accolades, in 1971 he won the Royal National Prize, also accumulating many regional art prizes throughout his career. Nicholas' work is held by the Queensland Art Gallery and in many private collections.