Mark Fernandez

Artist Statement:

“My focus as an artist has always been simple. How can I represent the world around us in a way that engages the viewer. By painting both in the plein air experience and in the studio, that has helped me develop a looser handling of the paint. I strive to be “in the moment” when I paint. My painting style is more akin to poetry than to prose. Painting has demanded that I be more observant of the world around us. In doing so, I can show the viewer the beauty in the mundane, as well in the spectacular.”

Artist Biography:

Mark received a double BS degree in Art and Business in 1976 from Coe College. After graduating, Mark worked in the Jewelry Industry for four years. In 1980, Mark transitioned into the residential real estate industry and from 1989 to 2015 specialized as a residential mortgage officer. In 2002, while still in the business environment, Mark slowly redirected himself towards the art world. By 2016, Mark was fully committed to his painting career. From 2016 to 2023 Mark operated a gallery along with his wife, Laura, called “Art on Spring”. The gallery was located in Newport, RI. Mark paints primarily in oils and pastels. Mark’s paintings are both from Studio work and on location “Plein Air”. Mark’s paintings are both in private, corporate, and US Congressional collections.

Awards

Award of Excellence, 2022 Pastel Painters Society of Cape Cod
Honorable Mention 2021 Spring Bull Gallery “Spring Fever” Show
“Best in Show” at 2020 Pastel Society of NH Show
Honorable Mention, “Royal Talents North America Award” 2020 Pastel Painters of Cape Cod
Award of Excellence 2017 Little Compton Art Show
Honorable Mention 2016 Conanicut Art Association