Mark A. Vander Vinne
About the Artist
Based in: Porter, IN
Website: https://vandervinnestudio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markvandervinne/
Biography
RECONNECTING WITH THE QUIET
For years, I lived a life pulled in different directions—caught between the demands of a high-pressure career in advertising and design, the challenges of raising three daughters, and the effort to maintain a marriage. Over time, I sensed a growing disconnection, as if something vital was missing.
One night, more than 25 years ago, I found myself alone in my car, emotionally drained and disconnected from both work and home. Sitting there, I asked myself, When had I last felt truly happy? The answer was clear: while attending the American Academy of Art school. There, I was immersed daily in painting, learning, and interacting with my creative tribe. I realized then that I needed to bring these aspects back into my life.
I began oil painting again and found solace in quiet landscapes that provided a much-needed respite amidst the chaos of my life. Art became a place of peace—a way to reconnect with the person I had been and wanted to become. Eager to grow, I took workshops from nationally recognized artists and immersed myself in every resource I could find—books, videos, and online courses. Through this, I rediscovered my love for shape and color, learning to use these elements to express the moods I was experiencing and wanting to share.
Over time, I participated in plein air events, was included in exhibitions and solo shows, taught others what I’d learned, won awards, and built lasting friendships with fellow artists and art lovers— all while continuing to juggle the demands of daily life.
But then, once again, life intervened and led me to look inside. This past year, a cancer scare shook me to my core. Though brief, it brought a profound new level of clarity. In a 3 AM moment of reflection, I asked myself: If I had only a year to live, how would I spend my remaining time? The answer was simple: I would cherish the time with those I love, travel and explore the natural world, and create art because I love the process of it.
As I work through this transition period, this clarity fuels my commitment to remind myself—and others—to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and reconnect with both the inner and outer worlds.
Gallery