25: MARK FLICKINGER (B. 1965) AWARD WINNING OIL ON CANVAS

Mark Flickinger (Born 1965)
The Oxbow As Seen From Mt Holyoke, Homage To Thomas Cole (2011)
The award winning oil on canvas of monumental proportions is signed lower left front and dated 2011.

In the following comments, Mark Flickinger talks about his entry in the ARC 8th International Salon Competition and the themes running through it - themes of American history, inspiration, the beauty of nature and his motivations as an artist. This ambitious undertaking earned him the competition's only honorable mention award from 2100 entries by artists from around the world. Only 25% of entries are actually exhibited to the public and very few are recognized with an award at any level.

'My most recent work is centered on the idea of the iconic American vista and the way painting has become a way of understanding it. I am interested in the historical role of painting in the development of an American identity and sense of place. What is invention? What is mediation? What is uniquely American? What do I expect to see in these so-called sublime spaces? Why am I, like so many, drawn to them?
It is important for me to be in the landscape and to experience its light, weather, and changing nature. I prepare studies in situ, including oil sketches, drawings, watercolors, photographs, and journals. When possible, I collect rock and plant samples. On returning to the studio, I develop the finished paintings.
Ultimately, I love color, paint, texture, space, air, and light. I cannot separate my compulsion to paint from my need to be in these places.'
Canvas measures 53 x 77.5 with a framed size of 59 x 83.5 inches.
Very fine original untouched condition. There are no issues of major scratches, losses, repairs, in-painting or touch-up.
$2,000 - $4,000