Mark Shawver Painter

The Gift of Art

What that title means to me is not so much that my art is a gift to others but that I am grateful to have been given the gift of appreciation for art and how it communicates, represents and reflects life. This quote from Walter Hagen, a major figure in golf in the first half of the 20th century sums it up for me, "Don't hurry, don't worry, you're only here for a short visit, so be sure to smell the flowers along the way”. In my case I guess I might substitute the word “smell” for “paint”.

 

I consider myself fortunate for many reasons and not the least is my never ending fascination with the lush beauty of the world that is all around us, everyday, everywhere we go. It’s so easy to overlook the simple wonders of existence and the joy that they offer. When we slow down a little and open our eyes and hearts we begin to embrace the miracle of being alive and become in touch with the teeming life on planet earth. My paintings are an attempt at capturing extraordinary, yet often considered commonplace, overlooked scenes and moments that I slowed down for and didn’t miss. Painting is an expression of my gratitude and appreciation for the gift of this short visit.