Mark Mathews

I always dreamed of being an artist from my youngest days as a kid. My mom and dad were both artists, who met at the Minneapolis School of Art. My father, Roy Mathews, was a hot commercial artist back in the 60’s in Minneapolis. I idealize my dad, who provided a window into a unique world of art most kids never see. He would take me down to his studio, sit me in a corner with a pad of paper and pencil, and tell me to draw. It was just a given, I was going to be an artist. 

Sadly, I lost my dad at the peak of his career when I was 15. Upon reflection it was a gift that allowed me and my family to find meaning in ways that otherwise would not have happened. I found solace through art creation and went on to received a scholarship and graduate from the Minneapolis college of Art and Design. I went on to work at several ad agencies and art studios, and eventually on my own as a freelance illustrator.  

After many years working as a commercial artist, I began to turn towards fine art. I simply wanted to create something beautiful; make a statement to share the world through my eyes. I hope that the beauty and love reflected in my art resonates with you. The goal of art should be to raise the frequency of the viewer to a higher consciousness. If a work of art does that, it can be a wondrous thing to be around. I have bought and acquired many paintings by artists’ whose works filled me with joy. In many ways art, and the arts, are what make life worth living.  I love painting in oils and opaques, finding them satisfying and wonderful mediums. 

Through the years I have filled numerous sketchbooks with ideas and drawings, many left undeveloped until I began to explore the immediacy and possibilities digital art. Many of my digital works started as pastel sketches and were later developed digitally on an iPad. I find conventional art and digital art equalling compelling in the creative process. I hope you enjoy my work, find it pleasing to the eye, and satisfying for the soul.

All the Best,

Mark (aka, The Art Mark)