We were lucky to catch up with Duke Mark recently and have shared our conversation below.

Duke, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

*How I Learned*
My artistic journey was largely self-taught. I gathered various materials, experimented with them, and observed how they reacted under different conditions. Through trial and error, I developed my skills and understanding of different mediums.

*Speeding Up Learning*
In hindsight, I believe formal training would have accelerated my learning process. Attending lessons, tutorials, and watching YouTube videos would have provided valuable guidance and insights. This would have helped me avoid some of the mistakes I made along the way.

*Essential Skills*
While it’s often said that “it’s not the material but the artist,” I believe that technicality played a crucial role in my artistic development. Mastering the use of different mediums and understanding how to harness their unique properties was essential to my growth as an artist.

*Obstacles*
Lack of parental support was a significant challenge, as my father’s disapproval of my creative pursuits made it hard to pursue my passion. Limited financial resources also hindered my ability to access formal training and resources that could have enhanced my skills. Additionally, self-doubt was a constant companion, with every road I took ending in a “what if.” Finding something to be known for was really hard because I hadn’t reflected on my inner self then, making it tough to discover my unique style.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Duke Mark, and I’m a passionate artist driven by the intricacies of everyday life. My journey into the art world began with a desire to capture human struggles, resilience, and hope. With a background in Computer Science from Imo State University, I bring a unique perspective to my art, combining technical skill with creative expression.

I provide intricate and thought-provoking art pieces, often using the humble ballpoint pen to create visually stunning works that challenge viewers to reflect on the world around them. My art amplifies marginalized voices, sheds light on social injustices, and inspires meaningful conversations.

What sets me apart is my commitment to using art as a tool for social change. I believe that art has the power to inspire, provoke, and bring people together. Through my work, I aim to reassure the weak that they’re not alone and leave a lasting impact on the world.

I’m most proud of the impact my art has had on people’s lives. I’ve received messages from individuals who’ve been inspired by my work, and it’s moments like these that remind me of the power of art to change the world.

What I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know about me is that I’m dedicated to creating art that’s not just visually stunning but also thought-provoking and inspiring. I’m passionate about using my platform to amplify marginalized voices and bring hope to those who need it most. Through my art, I aim to inspire meaningful conversations, challenge societal norms, and leave a lasting impact on the world.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

For me, a thriving creative ecosystem is all about having the right support system. As an artist, I believe society can play a huge role in nurturing creativity by providing accessible funding opportunities, fair compensation, and spaces that foster art. Quality education and training programs can also help us develop our skills. Celebrating local art scenes, exhibitions, and festivals can boost our confidence and exposure. Plus, collaborations and inclusive spaces can lead to fresh ideas and perspectives. If society can advocate for our rights, offer incentives for art investments, and prioritize the arts in cultural policies, I think we’d be able to create even more amazing work and contribute to the world’s cultural richness.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to connect with people on a deeper level through my work. Seeing how my art can evoke emotions, spark conversations, and inspire others is truly fulfilling. It’s a privilege to be able to share my perspective and experiences with others, and to know that my art can have a lasting impact on those who engage with it. Plus, the creative process itself is a journey of self-discovery and growth, which I find incredibly rewarding. Knowing that my art can bring hope, joy, or even just a moment of contemplation to someone’s life makes every stroke, every line, and every piece worth creating.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://Www.Instagram.com/markcduke
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