George Marks is a fine artist, a social sculptor, a designer from southern Louisiana,
and a favorite of Hello Lovely.
His work is represented by Ann Connelly Fine Art, Claire Elizabeth Gallery, Judy Ferrara Gallery and Bremermann Designs.
I adore the artist’s palette…the aqua color washes and transparency—so tranquil, quiet and serene, in their buoyant humility, so mysteriously adept at permeating a whispery layer of my soul.
Is that not what fine art beautifully accomplishes? The veil is lifted, and for a moment we are in union with the cosmos (and if we’re lucky, connected to kosmos…the whole of all existence in all realms).
His work as a visual artist responds to the people, places, and things in his world.
Edgy yet also soft and the fabric of life.
Patrice Melnick eloquently summarizes the artist and his vision:
“George Marks has vision, a key element for an artist. However, Marks’ vision reaches beyond the canvas as he strives to unify people in Arnaudville and nearby communities to create an environment that values the arts, the creative spirit and quality of life.
From George Marks, many have learned about the power of collaboration and high aspirations. Following George Marks’ lead, business owners and community organizers have all learned to promote not only ourselves, but all of the businesses and events of the area. One to one, Marks listens, encourages and is quick to assist others with their projects. Many of us now make more effort to aim high for ourselves and the community.
George Marks serves as a catalyst that sparks imagination and action; creativity and partnership. Marks could have used his vision and energy to further profit in his own career but instead he has chosen to remain in his hometown of Arnaudville where he can highlight the beauty of Louisiana culture and integrate art into the landscape. Many of us now have higher aspirations as we strive for our goals together. Life in Central Louisiana will never be the same, and for that we thank George Marks.”
He works with acrylic, oil, resin, and tar, and the pieces take several weeks to complete, depending on inspiration and weather.
The stream of consciousness and musing here began with a glimpse of a single photograph in Traditional Home magazine with a painting by George Marks placed in a Swedish inspired bedroom designed by Gerrie Bremermann…here it is:
Yep. Still blows my mind.
The brilliant and beautiful work has continued to inspire me ever since…so let’s keep returning to it and keep cheering on and honoring the people of Louisiana as we do.
p.s. I haven’t forgotten about little Loretta, George.
This post was updated November 2016.
To learn more about the art and where to see it, visit his studio.
Further bio and background via
George Marks is a exhibiting career artist and lives and works in the small bi-parish rural community of Arnaudville, La., home to the NUNU Arts & Culture Collective concept (Arnaudville Experiment), one of 14 communities/projects included in the NEA funded Mayor’s Institute on City Design’s (MICD) most recent publication, Creative Placemaking and recently presented at a rural round table discussion cosponsored by the Arts + Community Change Initiative, Arts & Democracy Project, Center for Rural Strategies and InCommons, hosted by the Bush Foundation. He has been appointed by the Lt. Governor to the Louisiana State Arts Council and serves on additional boards including St. Landry Parish Tourism and Louisiana Citizens for the Arts. Mr. Marks originated the NUNU concept and is actively involved in the evolution of the project. In addition, he is also actively involved with the development of the anticipated St. Luke French Immersion/Cultural Center. He is the recipient of the 2007 St. Landry Economic Authority Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the 2007 Opelousas-St. Landry Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year and the 2008 Louisiana Division of the Arts Leadership in the Arts Governor’s Award.
Peace to you right where you are.
-michele
This is so cool to see. I am a good friend of George's and he is such an amazing artist. But more than that he is quite an amazing person. A few years ago he began a non-profit organization called "Frederick l'Ecole des Arts" in Arnaudville, Louisiana to address the creative needs (music, visual, literary) in the rural communities surrounding his hometown. I am currently the president of the "Frederick School" and you can find more information at http://www.frederick-arts.org
That cute little dog in the second painting is George's dog Loretta and she is the cutest little dog with the biggest attitude that you will ever find. She is definitely a diva!
Jill Hackney
Merci, Jill, for sharing how George and the school have created opportunities for artists and students! Your community is a special one I'd love to visit someday. Thanks too for the tidbit about that cutie, Loretta!
Hello,
this is waaaay cool. Thanks so much for liking what I do! And Jill is correct.. we are doing our part in helping to leverage the role of the artist. You are essentially providing a similar service with your blog. Thank you for doing it and thanks again for liking my work.
peace george marks
georgemarkstudio.com
Not only is George's art astounding, so is he as a human being. His contributions to art and, through it, to the community are boundless.
Marsha J. Miller
The pleasure is MINE, George! I'm such a fan so thanks for your beautiful, inspiring, soulful pieces and the many ways through art you help others. I do hope to glimpse your work in person when I visit your city (maybe next month!).
Michele
I met George Marks right before Hurricane Katrina. Following the devastation, George put out the word that Arnaudville would house artists and any who needed a helping hand. He worked to find lodging, food and his efforts and the Arnaudville community were successful in bringing comfort to many. I came to realize what a beautiful soul he is. He constantly works to help others. It is worth coming to Arnaudville, Louisiana, to spend time with George Marks and his mom, Rita (and Loretta, of course). You will return.