Meet Mark Gomez | artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Gomez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, career-wise, where do you want to be in the end?
For me, the end goal is something that is ever changing, and something I constantly question. In the beginning, the goal was to use art as an outlet, and as my voice; it allowed me to express emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a way, that I couldn’t do with words. However, after a while of showcasing my art and talking about it with others. I found my own voice and the goal shifted. The new goal was to create connections with people, through my interpretation of the world, emotions, feelings, thoughts, and experiences. I have the hope, that by the end of my career; all of my artwork will have been sold to people who were moved by my art or perhaps felt a connection. If I can make that happen, I’ll consider myself a success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I suppose I would describe my art as my interpretation of the world and life. It can be dark, deep, depressing, and at the same time can be beautiful, fulfilling, and precious.
The thing that sets me apart from others, and what I believe makes everyone unique; is interpretation. A lot of us have similar experiences but we all interpret them differently.
I wouldn’t consider myself very far in my creative career but I am incredibly proud of where I’m at. Confidence is an obstacle I struggle with; but from not thinking my work was good enough to show other people, to now presenting my work in various galleries throughout LA county, giving yourself a chance is the best and hardest lesson I’ve learned.
What I want the world to know about my art is that, it is not as depressing as it seems, from my self deprecating name, to the dark subject matter, it is just as beautiful as it is dark.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my favorite things to do in the Inland Empire and throughout LA County is go to art galleries and art shows. From the Art Walks that many cities host, to the galleries and art show events that take place, there seems to always be interesting places and cultures to experience.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to send a shout out to many people, who have made an impact on my journey. from the phlebotomist who first convinced me to show my art to others, from the many artists whom I’ve met, and push me to be a better artist, to that one specific person who inspires me like no other (you know who you are) and to the gallery owners and representatives who allow me and many artists the opportunity and space to present our work. there are many people who deserve recognition; but if I had to choose one, it would be Artist Nate Mcmullen, the owner of a gallery named Artist In the Alley, in Pomona CA. He and the community he helped create, changed my life in the best way possible, and he has believed in me ever since the first time I presented in his gallery. Find his Instagram @artist.inthe.alley

Instagram: @mediocremark