Mark Austin FRSA, born, brought up and living in The High Weald for most of his life, Mark uses not only the natural materials he was surrounded with as his tools, materials and inspiration, but also the stunning Sussex landscape which is reflected in his work.
From a third generation of artists and artisans, Mark uses his 33 years’ experience in the construction industry to develop his art works, predominantly self-taught, Mark has developed his skills through engaging in art classes and collaboration with other local artists.
Mark’s artistic viewpoint is to capture unique moments in nature, and has made the transition from corporate life to professional artist by the age of 50.
Mark is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts , Little Arts Festival Art Director and member of Pure Arts Group
His work is founded on three areas
1. Drawing
Mark Austin’s drawing practice is characterised by a minimalist approach, creating sophisticated black-and-white line drawings that reflect the essence of his natural surroundings, his work often takes the form of triptychs and polyptychs, with series like Cuckmere, Seven Sisters, Windswept Trees, and Tide capturing the tranquility and beauty of the environment. Mark’s thousands of sketches and studies embody a commitment to simplicity and precision, with each piece capable of standing alone or contributing to a larger narrative. His focus on line and form allows him to distill the essence of his observations into powerful, evocative artworks.
2. Contemporary Sculpture
Mark’s contemporary sculptures are a celebration of natural forms and sustainability. Using reclaimed wood to create sculptures from pebbles found during walks, he creates minimalist pieces inspired by the textures and shapes found in nature. His collections, such as Flow and Flint and pay homage to the work of renowned sculptor Barbara Hepworth while maintaining his distinct style.
The Flint series is now available in limited edition of 12 bronzes.
3. Through the Continuous Practice of Walk and Sketch
Walking and sketching form the foundation of Mark Austin’s artistic practice, serving as both inspiration and methodology. Over the past three years, Mark has refined his process by immersing himself in the landscapes of Sussex, translating the serenity and energy of his environment into art. His wellbeing walks, shared with the community, invite participants to engage with nature while exploring their own creativity. These sessions emphasize the connection between movement, observation, and creation, encouraging reflection on the world around us. By integrating walking into his practice, Mark fosters a deeper connection with his surroundings and a communal approach to art-making, blending personal exploration with shared experiences.
Mark’s dedication to the circular economy is evident in his process: he not only uses reclaimed materials but also repurposes offcuts into charcoal for drawing.