Artist Statement

At the core of my work is a deep love and respect for all of animal kind and the sacred spiritual nature that we share with them. There is an essence in every living thing, the anima, that cannot be so easily defined by logic or science. Our anima yearns to connect with all that is sacred in the world, but only in the middle places between thought and no thought do we glimpse this higher reality. Image making for me is a meditative and magical process where I ponder the secrets of nature in a vain attempt to convert the lead of ignorance into the gold of enlightenment.  

My work is narrative in nature and is defined by the use of traditional materials, attention to detail, and the use of tromp l’oeil and still life elements. I use spiritual, alchemical, and religious symbolism to connect the viewer subconsciously to the secrets of the natural world.  

I am a self-taught artist. Due to my formal education as a veterinarian and biologist, I have fundamental knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology, and psychology which is an important foundation for my work where animals, birds, and insects are the main subjects. 

P.S. For the curious, my first name “Marque” is pronounced “Marquis” like the title for French nobility. Considering my passion for the Renaissance it is an intriguing coincidence… 

Curriculum Vitae  

Artistic and Formal Education  

I am a self-taught artist. Due to my formal education as a veterinarian and biologist, I have fundamental knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology, and psychology which is an important foundation for my work where animals, birds, and insects are the main subjects. 

Selected Juried Group Shows (2013-2023): 

San Diego Art Institute Regional Show 

San Diego Art Institute SoCal Baja Norte Exhibition 

San Diego Art Institute Regional Show 

San Diego Museum of Art Artists Guild, Illuminations Exhibition 

Santa Cruz Art League, Beasts on Broadway 

The Studio Door, The Crow Show 

Oceanside Museum of Art Artist Alliance Show 

Oil Painters of America Western Regional Show 

Publications: 

“A Saint Called Mother Nature” in Art by Nature magazine, Number 7, 2017