Fd: How did Art and Fly Fishing get together in your life? How were your beginnings in these two different fields?
MB: I grew up interested in art and drawing and art became my major in college. I went on to advertising art professionally for years.
I also grew up interested in fishing and actually was more a spin casting fisherman for years. It wasn’t until a number of years ago that I “graduated” to fly fishing because some of my fishing buddies switched to it. So I went for it!
I consider myself an outdoorsman and so that’s how the 2 became 1 because I identify with it. It’s a passion, not only fishing but wildlife and all the outdoors in general. I am a sporting artist for that reason.
Fd: Where do the scenes from your works come from? Do you work in situ?
MB: Some of my work comes from out west…Yellowstone and Tetons area. I am located in Northeastern Michigan so the rest of my fly fishing work is from the Au Sable River in Michigan. I have done painting “en pleine air” or on sight for just landscapes. However most are with photo reference when incorporating a fisherman in the river or wildlife for that matter.
Fd: What are the spots that impress you the most?
MB: I would have to say the American West. The mountains rising up as a backdrop to the rivers is simply breathtaking.
Fd: Is there a particular message you want to convey through your artwork?
MB: I hope to bring an enjoyment to people who view my art and have the ability to bring memories of the outdoors into their view. It may be a memory of a cherished old friend and hunting dog, or a fishing experience, or the great outdoors, or just a pleasant landscape with a touch of the call of the wild.
The experience on each fishing or hunting adventure as an outdoorsman is unique and wonderful. Just being out in God’s creation is truly a special thing. It brings me to the center of who I am both as a person of Faith and as an artist. In most of my work a narrative is present in one form or another to tell a story and to create a peaceful feeling from being out in the field, stream or lake.
Fd: What advice would you give to the starting artists that want to get into the fly-fishing world?
MB: I would say paint or work from your heart. Not all artists that fly-fish are sporting artists. There are some established artists that mainly do landscapes but love to fly-fish. You must find your own niche that is your passion and go from there.
You can get in touch with Mark for more, here: Ironroadstudiosart.com
