Mark Preston

Country/Region: Northwest Coast (view other artists)

Tribe: Tlingit

Born in Dawson City, Mark Preston Is of Tlingit and Irish ancestry. First learning about his heritage though school, Preston studied the great European masters: Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, etc. Meanwhile, at home Mark discovered the masters of his own tradition, Bill Reid, Robert Davidson, Roy Vickers and Charles Edenshaw.

Studying carving at the famed West Coast Native Carving School, 'Kasan' in Hazelton, BC, Preston worked with renown master jeweler Phil Janze. There he also honed his drawing and print skills.

Returning home after his training, Preston opened a gallery with his mother, Kay-Yee-Yah, who is an artist of her own right. Between the two of them they produced a line of beautifully applique'd clothing. There strong bond has allowed Preston to further develop his ties to tradition and heritage.

By travelling from throughout Western Canada Preston has developed recognition as a beautiful jewelry maker. Also, his print works have become iconographic for uniquely bridging the gap between what is tradition and contemporary, often literally displaying the movement of tradition.

Artist's Statement

'When I think about what art is, it is more than illustration of objects to be doted over. Art is the magic, the glue that binds and brings us together. It is the language that transcends its forms. Art give us reason to think, ponder and speak our minds.'

Selected Exhibitions

2011 Spirits of the Sea, Alcheringa Gallery, Victoria, BC

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