Mallery Marsh Artist Feature
Landmark Presents exists to amplify artists whose work encourages inclusivity and stewardship of our public lands.
Mallery Marsh, an Arizona native currently living in Illinois, is a painter and teacher who can't get enough of the outdoors. We asked her to share a little about her inspiration and process.
Is art a side hustle or hobby for you, or is it your day job? How has your career evolved?
I became a full time artist last July 2020 after teaching art in the public and charter schools for six years. I feel like my art career is constantly evolving along with my style because I'm always being influenced by new places and artists. I'm also working on an online acrylic landscape course that will be released at the end of the summer, which is a lot of fun to be teaching again.
Where does your passion for art and nature come from?
From a young age both art and nature where part of growing up. My mom graduated in Graphic Design and always had art supplies around the house for me. I loved animation and wanted to be an animator for Disney for most of my childhood. I was always that kid in the class who everyone came to and asked if I would draw stuff for them. My dad loved being outside and made sure in the summers we went camping in Colorado. I loved staying at the campgrounds and running around by the streams. I'm very grateful because I got to spend most of my childhood outside.
What do you enjoy most about your creative process?
I love how painting from start to finish has its ups and downs, just like life. Almost every painting gets to a place where I'm frustrated and want to give up, but I know if I keep going and push through it will be worth it.
What do you love about teaching?
My favorite part of teaching is watching a student go from "I can't" to "Look what I just painted!" I love breaking down something complicated into small, simple shapes, that are easily understandable to draw or paint. I truly believe anyone can draw or paint if they can break it down and simplify the subject.
What’s your all time favorite outdoor space and why?
Two of my all time favorite places are Glacier and Grand Teton National Parks. I've traveled to both a few times and just am always in awe.
Are you involved in any form of advocacy or giveback?
A few years ago I was teaching at a school where a little girl (a sister of one of my students) was diagnosed with terminal cancer. It was unbearable to watch this family go through such a horrible disease that tragically took their little girl within months. I decided I would always donate 10% of my profits to organizations like Make A Wish, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and other cancer research programs. I'm grateful my art allows me to give back and not only set goals for my art but also for how much I donate to cancer patients/research.
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