For anyone who remembers Mad Magazine and Mort Drucker, this was the inspiration and obsession I had in 4th grade which began my painting career.  

I developed a sudden interest in drawing at that time and spent my weekends copying the artwork in Mad Magazine in the small room I shared with my older brother Ross. (Thank you Ross, for putting up with me drawing and painting at all hours of the night and taking over our bunk beds at times.) Lucky for me, Ross saved many of my early attempts at drawing, thrown in the trash can near my little desk, when I was frustrated, learning how to draw. Over the years I worked at it and found my own style: experimenting with comics, sweeping landscapes, and Sumi-E painting. I tried it all and still enjoy every bit of the creative process - 50 years as a professional artist and going strong!

At 16, I had become almost obsessed with the work of Frederic Church and the Hudson River School of painters. My interest was certainly about the beauty of the landscapes but I also learned over time it was about my sense of personal identity. The realm of painting and my sense of self forged a relationship beyond control it seemed - I was convinced I was capable and would one day become a professional painter. I have never looked back and have always made my living as an artist. 

My early 20s were focused on drawing well, attending art school (Portland School of Art in Maine) and visiting every museum in the Bay Area in and around San Francisco. I was especially drawn to the work of American Artist Edward Hopper. He once famously said his paintings were really about himself.  Like Hopper, I also believe in the power of art to express who and what we really are. This goes for the viewer as well; I hope when you look at my paintings, you recognize yourself or discover something beautiful inside you that you may have forgotten. 

I'm just as fascinated with American History and the story of the "American Dream."  Books are piled up all around my art studio and I'm always reading -. these days about American history, racism, and culture. I now live in New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, which has taught me about light and informed my paintings with a depth of solitude and tranquility which I hope you can see in my work. 

The unique cultures here in New Mexico are enriching  - I have benefited from the many gifted artists who live here and inspire me daily.  I am so happy I can share my work with you and I hope you get to see my paintings in person one day.  I am represented by several of the best galleries in the US and usually have at least one, if not two or three, exhibitions each year.  You can check out the Fine Art Dealers who represent me here.

Mark

PS:  I've added new art studio videos to my Youtube Channel. You can subscribe here:

American Artist Mark Beck is considered one of the country’s top realism and landscape painters. With a unique vision and decades-long career, he is well known for his iconic and bold images of the American landscape. 

You can see his paintings in films, international ad campaigns, and on magazine covers.  Beck's artwork currently resides in some of the world's most prestigious art collections. 

STATEMENT

Having been a professional artist for more than 35 years, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with interior designers, film production companies, movie directors, and more.  Additionally, my galleries are the place to see my latest paintings and they can be trusted to find just the right painting for you. Commissions are always exciting to take on and I have painted dozens of them, one of my favorites being a 14-foot-long painting custom made for the home of John Nordstrom, commissioned through Travis Hansson Fine Art in NY.  I enjoy the process of learning about how to offer clients something unique.  If there is a painting you see on my website that’s not currently available, please connect with me or my galleries and we can assist in finding the perfect painting for your client, home, or business. 

Current collaborators and collectors: 

• Barclay Butera Interior Design.  In his personal collection as well as placement with clients.
• Travis Hansson, Private Art Placement, NY.
• John Nordstrom.
• Paris Barclay, Director.  In his personal collection as well as with paintings placed in “In Treatment” and “NYPD Blue.”
• Andy Greenwald, Director, “Briar Patch” series.Steven Botchko, Film Production Company.
• Mark Singer, Architects Laguna Beach, CA.
• Della Robbia Italia, Ad Campaign for Dwell Magazine.
• Rick Bernstein, HBO Sports Center.