British artist Mark Spain studied Technical Graphics at Medway College of Art in Kent (now part of the University for the Creative Arts), and went on to open his own printmaking studio, where he mastered the arts of etching and the collagraph. Spain’s interest in art began with a love of landscape, but after experimenting with a variety of styles, he has settled firmly in the realm of figurative art. Taking the female form in motion as his primary subject, Spain creates realistic works full of rich, vibrant color with energized brushstrokes that capture moods of romance, whimsy, and longing.

Spain’s inspirations are varied, but he looks to music as a consistent source of material. And, just as any good composer or songwriter would do, he pays attention to the whole of the composition, but also emphasizes the details that form the mood and atmosphere of the painting. Spain notes, “I believe that the mood and feeling within the painting are as important as the composition. This is an area that I enjoy exploring—it’s such an exciting challenge to try and capture a moment.” Spain has been successful in capturing these so far: his etchings have been published by CCA Galleries of London, he has been exhibited at the 20th Century British Art Fair among other shows, and his pieces appear in collections around the world.