About the Artist – Mark Marino (Marko)
Born in 1955, Marko grew up in Boulder, Colorado amid the aesthetic influences of the University of Colorado and the example of his father, Anthony, who was his primary artistic inspirer who ignited his aesthetic vision at an early age. Moreover, he has studied contemporary artists: Daniel Sprick, Richard Schmidt, and Robert Moore; as well as historical artists: Nicolai Fechin, John Sargent, and Winslow Homer.
His thirst for new knowledge and vision drives him to improve and consequently, his energy flows through his art. Because painting is his passion, he delights in the effort and becomes lost within the process of each evolving piece. He says, “There is the creative challenge of creating the tangible work from the intangible vision. When I am painting well I cannot explain why, but it is like riding a magnificent wave!”
He creates dynamic compositions in contemporary style utilizing a vivid visual memory combined with a strong sense of design. He paints from life and his subjects portray a personal and experiential sense of light and place. He uses palette knife with a deft looseness that belies its precision.
Artist Statement
Style: “As a painter of real life, I draw my visual inspirations from nature which are colored through my emotions. My painting style is a natural evolution that is versatile in its level of detail and its devotion to true color. I paint because I am enthralled by the elegant play of light on forms. I strive for a real life quality to my animal and portrait works.”
Process: “I employ the contrast of fuzzy brushwork against edgy knife work in order to imply detail without overstating it. I use palette knife liberally to apply broad areas of paint as well as to define sharp edges and I use different tools to facilitate my painting, and by varying shapes and detail I direct the viewer’s attention.”
Philosophy: “Ultimately, a powerfully perceived impression is what translates to a strong painting; therefore, it is not what I see in the viewfinder that matters! My art is important because I seek to convey the wonder of being human. I strive with my art to connect with the spiritual in all of us. Exceptional art will stimulate the senses by engaging the imagination. My objective is to create art that is more than an accurate depiction of an image. The WHY is key to creating a powerful image, and when there is a link to an emotion, an event, a truth, or a message, the result is a stronger impact upon the viewer.”
Quotes:
“Dedicated practice to learning sound principles is both the means and the end to finding joy and fulfillment in your work.” –– Richard Schmid
“…Great knife work Marko, and the colors are spot on.” — J.D. Phillips
Memberships and Awards
- Membership: Oil Painters of America (OPA)
- Membership: American Impressionist Society (AIS)
2021
- OPA Associate Salon Show
- Colorado National Monument Plein Air and 2022 Calendar
2020
- Feature article in Southwest Art, August issue
- One-man show – the Montrose Center for the Arts
- One-man show – Grand Mesa Arts and Entertainment Center
2019
- OPA Western Region Show
- AIS National Show, NYC
2018
- 1st Place, Red Rock Art Show, Moab, UT
- 1st Place, Paonia Plein Air, Paonia, CO
- 2020 Colorado National Monument Art Calendar – multiple pages & inserts
2017
- Driggs Digs Plein Air, Driggs, ID
- Teton Plein Air Fest, Jackson, WY
Education:
- Bachelor of Fine Art, University of Northern Colorado, emphasis in painting/drawing, ceramics, and art history
- Art and Design, Brigham Young University, Rexburg, ID
- Mentorship with Dave Wade, Thayne, WY
- Mentorship with Leon Parsons, Rexburg, ID
- Apprenticeship with Robert Moore, Declo, ID
Represented by:
- Orly Art Gallery, Colorado Springs, CO
- The Local Galleria, Driggs, ID
- Main Street Gallery, Grand Junction, CO
- Blue Pig Gallery, Palisade, CO
- The AppleShed Gallery, Cedaredge, CO
- Laura M Gallery, Saratoga, WY
Contact:
Mailing address: 2088 W. Main St., Cedaredge, CO 81413
Phone: 307-413-9911
Email: markoart2015@gmail.com
Website: www.markomarino.com