I believe that art is about communication and making connections between people. Art moves people, brings them joy, makes them think but most of all art is fun. Digital art has the potential to be used in an incredible number of ways. That is not to say that traditional art is outdated and useless. Quite the opposite, my digital art and design is only possible from a strong foundation in traditional art forms. My graphic artwork has a strong focus on feedback from others. Honestly feedback is the only way to grow as an artist, having people give honest critiques of what you're creating, be it good or bad. So long as you learn from what they're saying or at least consider it. As a teacher I strongly reinforce the fine motor skills required for hand-drawing by having my students do drawing warmups to get their brains into a more creative position.

I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Art Education from California State University Long Beach in 1996 then went on to attain my Masters of Education from the University of La Verne in 2006. My student teaching was done at Stephens Middle School in the Long Beach Unified School District and after two years of substitute teaching I was hired at Jefferson Leadership Academies to teach middle school art. I worked there until 2011 when I was transferred to Millikan High School. For the first three years I taught drawing and painting, then I moved over to graphic design. I had very little experience but was willing to learn and work hard. Recently I obtained my CTE credential for Arts, Media, and Entertainment and my new goal is to add Adobe InDesign to the list of programs with which I am familiar.

I hope you enjoy my work.

Mark Pearson