MARK ENGLISH
	FOREWORD Born and raised in rural Texas, Mark English has lived all over the United States but seems to have his greatest affinity for the farmlands of the Midwest. Incorporating an almost aerial perspective in his compositions, he captures the essence of the heartland, with its patterns of fertile fields crisscrossed by country roads and clusters of evergreens standing sentry over hidden and still ponds of water. English's work echoes the geometric symmetry of a finely crafted American quilt. In his youth, Mark English's first "artistic" endeavor was painting signs for traveling rodeos. That humble beginning would tap into an innate talent that eventually led the artist to the University of Texas and the Art Center College in Los Angeles. Mr. English would ultimately achieve legendary status in the world of illustration with prestigious assignments including the creation of 13 stamps for the United States Postal Service. His success would culminate in his election to the Illustrator's Hall of Fame in 1983, joining the likes of Winslow Homer, Maxfield Parrish and Norman Rockwell. Spurred on by his unique vision, English left the confines of the commercial world some two decades ago. He sought the freedom of expression which could only be satisfied by the creation of his fine art. Over the ensuing years, he has pushed the limits of the representational genre, exploring a range of expression from abstractionism to impressionism. Although his body of work includes both figurative and still life subjects, his primary focus has undoubtedly been the American landscape. The surface of Mark English's paintings are always intriguing, often mimicking the texture of the topography he paints. They are richly textured with a depth that reflects light as if clouds were passing overhead. His palette in this newest body of work is perhaps more diverse than in the past. While retaining those characteristic rich deep hues of burnt orange, sunset reds and forest greens, he has also created works that suggest a scene drenched in summer sunlight. These light and airy compositions are executed in delicate shades of pastel yellow, blues and pinks. Mark English's paintings instill a sense of awe. He is an artist who continually inspires new generations of painters and illustrators. His works have been exhibited and published around the world and are included in many fine private and corporate collections.
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