Encouraged by an artistic family environment, Mark Alan Burnett's early ability was inspired by wide travel and visits to art museums in Europe, the Orient and the United States. His father, a well-known portrait artist and western sculptor, encouraged Mark to pursue art as a career but he initially selected other paths.
After studying both Art and Environmental Design at the University of Colorado in Boulder, he designed and built homes in Estes Park, managed a bookstore/cafe in Denver, and worked in advertising. Finally, at 30 years of age, Mark returned "home" to his creative potential and became a full-time portrait artist in 1982.
Since moving to Nashville, Mark has completed portraits for clients throughout the United States and Europe. Because of his keen observation, patience, skill and empathy, his portraits are so full of life that you are deeply touched by them.
At the 1984 National Artist's Seminar in Chicago, he was a finalist in the competition.
In 1991, he won first place for Distinguished Achievement in Portraiture in the national competition in Atlanta.
In 1994 he was one of ten finalists in the international competition of the American Society of Portrait Artists at Montgomery.
He is the former Vice President and now a Member of Merit of the Portrait Society of Atlanta.
In 2006 and 2007 Mark Alan Burnett was selected as one of the “Top Ten in Tennessee” by the Portrait Society of America.
Mark's paintings of Maggie and of Leslin were featured in the new Best of Worldwide Charcoal, Pastel and Pencil Artists Volume I.
Selected Comments
It was such a joy to get to know you during my portrait sittings. Your kind and good spirit put me at ease when I felt self conscious. You are a master at portrait painting and I will treasure mine and the process of having it made, always.
Regina
This is a very, very high caliber in children’s portraiture — it just takes your breath away.
John Howard Sanden
Chair, National Portrait Seminar
Charlie's portrait is beautiful! Thank you so much for another fantastic job!
Sallie Norton