Mark Landis

The fabulous former forger and a very dear friend of mine, Mark Landis, has released a wonderful book detailing his incredibly colourful life.

11 years ago I had the great privilege of meeting Mark through the friends and director of the documentary Art and Craft (which should be made mandatory for any arty fellow to watch it’s sensational) featuring Mark, his forgeries and his pursuit into creating original artworks.

We became instant pen pals across the pond with his passion, wit and wisdom of art being a personal Pandora’s box. His tips and tricks “cheat sheets” of portraiture foundations are what sparked my love of figurative art and I’ve never looked back. His freedom to create with the ability of every master still leaves me in awe. But his personal style is simply unmatched.

Please enjoy my sketchbook circa 2016 featuring Mark's portraiture tips in practice.

I had the honour of being a subject of his work which is still probably the most surreal thing that’s ever happened to me.

Seeing what pieces he’s completed and how he captures pure joy in his figures is always the highlight of my week.

After 11 years of friendship, I finally had a crack at his portrait. I’ve been in a bit of a painting rut and I think this return to art I’m excited to try, featuring my biggest inspiration and dear old pal is just the tonic!

4 hours and a new material later…

The portrait of my dear pal and former forger, Mark Landis!

To really emphasise the pressure I tried drawing in soft pastels for the first time, hoping to emulate his soft, light ethereal style. I haven’t had this much fun on a piece in AGES, I think I smiled for 3 hours straight today, what a pleasure and I’ll definitely be back with those pastel

If you can, please go out and support the book of the most fascinating artist you’ll learn about!!

Self-Portrait of a Master Art Forger

By Mark Landis with Christen Sheperd

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