We recently connected with Mark Allen and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

Despite the exposure and experiences I had in high school and college focusing on fine arts ,it wasn’t until our son was diagnosed with cancer that my creative journey took flight . A gifted artist in his own rights , Jared used his abilities to ease navigating his journey through treatments and long hospital stays . After he died I knew I had to continue the process to the pay tribute to a young life lost but well lived . Hence , Proper Mental Attitude . What started out as a series of cartoons evolved into acrylics on canvas and drawings easing my own journey through grief and evolution as an artist and human being .

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

So many of those who have purchased my art have said they appreciate my wit and humor in the cartoons as well as the sense of peace and joy from the colorful canvases . For me , it’s all about processing my grief/trauma and living life to it’s fullest best I can . While it’s certainly exhilarating and humbling to be respected by patrons and fellow artists , creating is therapeutic and healing . Each of my pieces is inspired by a mood, memory , longing or insight ; a composite of perception and perspective of where I am emotionally at a given moment .

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

While I certainly appreciate selling my art and being recognized for my talents , for me it’s more about the creative process . I don’t just “want to” create/paint/draw , I “have to” create/paint/draw . It’s a given part of my daily routine

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

A very random but equally amusing story ….I was once exhibiting at a juried art show and was honored to be amongst so many other talented creatives. There was a woman who spent a great deal of time examining my canvases and obviously appreciating them . When she was finished she approached me and said my art reminded her of Peter Max but I wasn’t as talented as him . I’ve taken the message of being associated with Peter Max on any level as a compliment and not being as talented (in her eyes) as something to aspire to .

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.ProperMentalAttitude.com
• Instagram: propmentalattitude
• Facebook: Mark Allen/ProperMentalAttitude

Image Credits
All art done by Mark Allen