Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Stephens.
Hi Mark, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began drawing as a child and have never stopped. In fifth grade I started drawing regularly and a teacher encouraged me to start painting and taught me basic oil painting techniques. Since then, aside I did take some college drawing classes, and have a degree in animation but for painting and drawing, I’m mostly self-taught, learning through books, mentors, artist friends, and my own experimentation. As a young man, I was fortunate to have a painter friend, Seth Camm, who shared techniques with me, and I even shared a studio with muralist Robert Ytarte. Throughout my twenties and thirties, I drew constantly whenever I could. In Houston, I continued my artistic journey, displaying my work in prestigious galleries, meeting new mentors and friends, and learning how to price and appraise art from gallery owner Albert Cherqui. Now living in Austin, Texas, I’m still creating art, branching into digital mediums, animation and exploring spiritual themes and the use of light.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has been anything but easy. I’ve given up a lot to follow my art, staying true to my path despite no quick financial payoff and choosing to spend my time honing my craft over doing other things. I’ve always felt a deep, powerful urge to create art that comes straight from the core of my being. If I’m not immersed in my art, whether putting the final touches on a painting or beginning a fresh drawing, it feels like something is missing. I often feel spiritually guided in creating my work, using automatism without any set ideas of how the final piece should look, letting it flow naturally from within. By embracing these intuitive and spontaneous methods, I believe anyone can access a boundless source of creativity, drawing concepts from the spiritual into the material. I feel most whole, most aligned, and closest to the divine when I’m completely absorbed in the creative process.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve explored a wide range of mediums, from pen drawings and gouache paintings to working with acrylics and oils. I began with a darker, more somber aesthetic, but over time shifted toward creating brighter, more colorful pieces. Most of my subjects are people I’ve known throughout my life. I enjoy experimenting with the creative process and lean toward a more spontaneous, intuitive approach. My influences include Art Nouveau, Symbolism, Visionary, Psychedelic, Impressionism, Surrealism, and other modern 20th-century movements. Over the years, I’ve developed my own style, blending classic techniques with experimentation, and most recently incorporating the Mischtechnik into my upcoming work.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve never actively sought out a mentor; they’ve just appeared, offering valuable insights and knowledge at pivotal moments in my life. One was introduced to me by a childhood friend, and another I met when I wandered into his coffee shop with my ex-girlfriend. Both provided extraordinary advice and instructions that I would not have been able to find in traditional schools. For networking, I suggest going to art openings and festivals to meet people who share your interests. Many communities are already established in your area or include people you can learn from. If not, create your own events—host art nights, shows, and invite others into your world. The old adage, “When the student is ready, the teacher appears,” has certainly proven true for me.
Pricing:
- 5000 +
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stephensmarkart197.wixsite.com/mysite-2
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark_stephens_123artist_
