About the Artist

Photo realistic watercolor artist

My passion for nature, places, and different cultures is at the core of my inspiration, and the subject of my work.  I am a realist with my brushes.  My watercolor paintings reflect my desire to see things as they are.  To allow the viewer to remember, to know, to see again - maybe for the first time.  

At the end of 2021 I retired from collecting a paycheck, which had previously come through a 25 year career in real estate sales and management on the San Fransisco peninsula, and a shorter 7 years of working at the church my wife and I attended for 37 years in Menlo Park, CA.  In early 2022 we moved to Central Portugal where I am now pursuing my passion – watercolor painting (when I'm not working on our 100 year old country home).

Other than one painting class at San Jose State in the late 70’s, I am self taught.  That one class though was very important.  In it I was introduced to the painting technique that I employ today.

I am a realist with my art.  I care about detail and what those details can provide in a completed painting.  The whole time I am creating a painting, I am enjoying the memory of being there, of taking the photo, of the excitement that I felt.  At the same time I am  hoping that this scene, or this subject might make for a great painting – a great memorial.  My goal with my art is to pass along that excitement.  For me it’s pretty simple, I want to create a painting that isn’t just a reproduction of a photo, but a work of art that enriches your life…brings back fond memories, encourages some adventure, just makes you feel good.  Heck, that’s what I’m feeling while doing it – I hope that’s what you feel looking at it!

Mark's artistic purpose:  "Committed to Bringing Joy Through Art"