MARK CHEN

Mark Chen is a classically trained artist specialising in portrait and figure painting. Drawing inspiration from masters such as Fechin, Ambrose McEvoy, Leighton, and Repin, their work is distinguished by expressive brushwork, rich textures, and a strong sensitivity to light and form.

With a background in philosophy, Mark approaches painting as both a technical discipline and a means of exploring deeper themes of identity, transience, and materiality. Their work seeks to balance academic tradition with a painterly, dynamic approach, capturing the complexity and vitality of the human form.

Based in London, Mark teaches portrait and figure painting at London Fine Art Studio and offers one-to-one tuition at Big Turtle Studio in Wimbledon. They are also involved in hosting weekly life drawing drop-in sessions, providing a space for artists to develop their observational and technical skills.

His work has been recognised with the Bowylers Drawing Prize 2023 at the Mall Galleries and has been exhibited in the Royal Society of Portrait Painters Exhibition 2024 and the Green & Stone Summer Show.

Alongside teaching, Mark continues to develop their own practice, pushing the boundaries of classical painting while remaining deeply engaged with the expressive possibilities of oil paint.