Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Mrowka.
Mark, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
As a visual artist, I’ve been creating all my life across several mediums; and many themes have always been centered around mystery, introspection and thought-provoking imagery.
I best describe my work as conceptual surrealism, but more simplistically, for me, it is storytelling by using both real and imagined elements occurring in my everyday life experience — via interactions, thoughts, memories and emotions — all of which become interwoven to convey ideas and meaning. By using literal and obscure symbolism, I allow observers a glimpse into my perspective while also allowing room for my pieces to resonate with their own story-lines, experiences and conclusions.
Whether it’s through graphite, paint or mixed-media, I employ a variety of textures and forms to foster visual dialogue with the viewer, while also attempting to create powerful paradox and dream-like dimension.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
However, in recent years my pieces have included many sensual elements of the female form and have explored aspects of the abstract ideas of creation and rebirth in one’s life. In short, they include the concept of time, pain and triumph… and a recurring element in most of my work is that of the human eye. Of course, this suggests its use in the physical sense but more importantly, represents the greater gift of vision regardless of eyesight.
My hope is that the viewer will see not only what forms are in front of them, but also iconography that they can translate to their own lives and inspire them to share their own stories which in turn inspire others — much in the way my visual and creative ‘heroes’ have done for me.
Artists rarely, if ever pursue art for the money. Nonetheless, we all have bills and responsibilities and many aspiring artists are discouraged from pursuing art due to financial reasons. Any advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective artists?
The reality is that it can be very tough for artists to make a living from a sole income of selling their work. I was fortunate to recognize this at an early age and was able to translate my art skills into graphic design. It’s an industry that is enormously diverse and has many ‘sub-industries’ of its own. Examples of this could be designing only in the wine labels design space or only in apparel or only signage, etc.
There are vast opportunities to even translate illustration skills into commercial design. With the advent of the internet and social media, one can find many companies looking for contractors or project-based work while at the same time developing their art careers. A lot of side gigs are found on Craigslist, Backpage, etc…
And one could generate their own art e-com site on platforms like Etsy, Shopify and others, all while honing their craft on the side while juggling a part-time job. In addition, there are many art grants out there if one just takes the time to do a simple search for ‘artist grants’ and ‘artist residencies.’
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Other information regarding updates, upcoming shows and other information regarding purchasing originals or prints can be found on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ArtofMarkMrowka/ or search: The Art of Mark Mrowka.
Contact Info:
- Website: markmrowka.com
- Email: mark@markmrowka.com
- Instagram: @markmrowka
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtofMarkMrowka/
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