ART BY MARK Macrides
My work is reflective of moments in time captured and represented with shape and color. The larger paintings and multi-paneled pieces use the cross and other imagery from Renaissance painting as a means creating the geometry of the space and interpreting traditional imagery and techniques in a modern and innovative manner. The size of some of the pieces allow for expansive areas of gradated color and movement through the vehicle of the spherical shapes. The worlds created are imaginary and dreamlike yet grounded in the reality of known entities such as the sky and the ocean. With the collage work, I wanted to create series of work that reflect the ordinary materials we interact with on a daily basis but in a manner that inspires mystery and awe.
Mark Macrides is a visual artist living and working in Connecticut. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Macrides’s career is a combination of professional artist and art educator. “My work has evolved over many years with a strong focus on color exploration and the mysteries of time and space. My role as an art teacher in an elementary school setting provides inspiration for my creativity. ” For many years, the artist worked in oils creating large, colorful and multi-paneled paintings. Over time, smaller mixed media pieces, incorporating a wide variety of found and manufactured materials have become a focus of the artist. “I enjoy the freedom and flexibility that collage provides as well as the opportunity to manipulate and transform found materials as a means of creative expression.”
Featured artWork
In all of my work, I challenge myself to experiment with color. I enjoy juxtaposing complementary colors and using them to create balance and stability. Spherical imagery intrigues me and appears often in my painted, and collage work. I frequently use the geometry of the circle as a vehicle for transforming color.
“From Dawn to Dusk”
Triptych, Oil on Canvas, 104” x 48”
This large piece represents an imaginary experience taking place from dawn on the left, to dusk on the right. The ocean becomes the vehicle for the mystery and transformations that occur during the day.
“The Great Pyramid”
Mixed Media Collage, 15” x 18”
Combining a variety of painted collage materials with an old geometry book, this piece explores spatial relationships and the intersection between the real and imagined world. The theme of the pyramid is explored in a number of different ways.
“Stations of the Cross”
Multi Panels, Oil on Canvas, 58” x 76”
Renaissance altarpieces inspired this large multi-paneled piece. The use of traditional imagery combined with vibrant color and intricate geometry creates a unique world that the viewer can travel through exploring something new with each experience.
Latest Work & Contracted Creations
My work is constantly evolving but remains focused on the consistent themes of color exploration, spatial juxtaposition and with the collage work, texture. The worlds that I create invite the viewer to experience the work on a number of different levels, from the more basic color fields to the more complex and mysterious environments.
