Meet Mark Narens of Venice

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark.

Hi Mark, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started in Chicago, IL doing pop up shows all over the city in my early 30’s. Prior to that I had an obsession with drawing and loved to paint, I attended the American Academy of Art in the mid 1980’s . I eventually obtained a gallery The Black couch Studio and Gallery in Hermosa (near Logan Square in Chicago). At this gallery we hosted young artists and musicians in the area, mostly the underground rap hip hop community. We also hosted fund raising events and through art and music we where able to create awareness and raise revenue to help others in need. Through painting live and supporting other artists in the community I began to get notoriety. I eventually headed to Venice Beach California. Here is where my art really started to get noticed as I was able to get in front of people from all over the world. I have been in Venice now for the last 8 years. I do art shows all across the country and most recently showed my work during Art Week Miami (Spectrum and Red Dot) Art Basel.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It most definitely has had many struggles.

The hardest part is believing in yourself and finding others to help you believe. And of course, finding ways to constantly get your art in front of the right people so that you can continue to create full time. The constant lifestyle adjustments to make it through another day is what usually what stops many artists.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What sets me apart is that I do not paint images for “Image sake” . My paintings our a visual expression on how I am feeling about life at that very moment. I create moments in time or special places. I keep my narrative Universal, not religious or political.

I am know for very vibrant, expressionistic colors and movements in my paintings.

I am most proud of my perseverance and my willingness to help other artists succeed to be able to paint all of the time.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
If you want to work/collaborate with me simply reach out to me @marknarensartist, lets go!

If you want to support me, either share my work with others or purchase a piece of art from me

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @marknarensartist