Meet Duke Mark

We were lucky to catch up with Duke Mark recently and have shared our conversation below.

Duke, so happy to have you with us today. You are such a creative person, but have you ever had any sort of creativity block along the way? If so, can you talk to us about how you overcame or beat it?

I’ve found that taking a walk and observing everyday experiences is a great way to overcome creative blocks. It allows me to clear my mind and often sparks new ideas. Additionally, taking field trips and exploring new environments can be a great catalyst for creativity, as it exposes me to fresh perspectives and experiences.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

As an introverted storyteller, I harness the intimacy of pen, coffee, and newspaper on canvas to craft narratives that resonate with the human experience. My art becomes a voice for the voiceless, a reflection of the everyday moments that shape our lives. Through layered textures and gestural strokes, I aim to evoke emotions, spark reflection, and amplify the stories that often go unheard. Through my art, I aim to amplify the voices of the marginalized, shed light on social injustices, and inspire hope in those who’ve lost it. Using the humble ballpoint pen, I create intricate and thought-provoking pieces that capture the complexities of human struggles and the resilience of the human spirit. My work is a testament to the power of art to reassure the weak that they’re not alone and to bring hope to those who need it most.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities are:

– *Creativity and Vision*: The ability to imagine and create unique ideas has been crucial. To develop this, I’d advise experimenting with different media, styles, and techniques. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things – it’s okay to fail and learn from those experiences!
– *Technical Skill and Craftsmanship*: Developing technical skills through practice and dedication is essential to bringing your vision to life. My advice would be to consistently hone your craft, take classes, and learn from other artists.
– *Resilience and Adaptability*: The art world can be tough, and rejection is common. To succeed, you need to be able to handle criticism and keep pushing forward. My advice would be to stay positive, focus on your passion, and be open to feedback and growth.

For folks early in their art journey, I’d say:
– Keep creating and experimenting
– Be open to learning and feedback
– Stay true to your vision and passion

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

Honestly, when I’m feeling super overwhelmed, I just need to take a break and do something that brings me joy. For me, it’s usually listening to music or watching a funny video 😂. I also love talking to friends or family about what’s stressing me out – sometimes just sharing the load makes it feel lighter 💕.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/markcduke