Mark Videan

Bio:

Retired after 42 years as a custom-design jeweler and goldsmith, Mark is now enjoying the freedom of being an artist unconstrained by choice of medium. He studied art, with an emphasis in metalsmithing, at Michigan State University. He has been making baskets since the early 80s, exploring many different materials and techniques. His basketry work has been exhibited internationally, and his jewelry and metal work have been found in galleries and stores throughout the U.S. His interests include science & space, relief printmaking, woodcarving, cooking, homebrewing, papermaking, making books, photography, and designing tattoos. Some of his photos, writing and original word puzzles can be found locally in Freshwater Reporter, a free community newspaper he and his wife co-edit. He teaches at, and his work is exhibited regularly in, regional art centers and galleries.

Artist Statement:
My artwork (I should really say play) has no unifying theme, no grand message or intent. I hope to engage the viewer, provoke an emotional response, perhaps add a bit of mystery to their day. My prints are inspired by places I’ve been, things I’ve photographed or imagined. Some are carefully planned. With others, I just start carving the block – a few curves here, some stippling there. I go with the flow and, gradually, if I am lucky, an image emerges. It’s fun and enlightening to be surprised by one’s own creations. Some prints have resulted from experimenting with different blocks. How does carving linoleum differ from cherrywood, mahogany, plywood, a cross-section of a tree limb, a piece of foam? How will the grain of the wood change how I work, the feel of the final prints? I have lists and sketches of prints I plan to create. Some I’ve had for years, waiting until the vision gels or I feel my skill level is up to the challenge. Each print run is a learning experience, an adventure.