Mark Shasha

Mark Shasha is an award-winning artist, author and educator and frequent painter at major plein air events throughout the U.S. His paintings usually begin with something personal that captures his eye; it may be as simple as a reflected light on a cliff or as complex as an urban vista. He applies traditional picture making techniques of working from life “en Plein Air” rather than photographs to achieve natural direct light and color. He combines this with classical methods of careful drawing, strong composition and atmospheric perspective.

A life-long artist with a degree from the Rhode Island School of Design, Mark’s early years were marked by success as a notable children’s book author and illustrator. He is he is signature member of the American Society of Marine Artists and the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, and an elected artist member of The Guild of Boston Artists, The Copley Society, Rockport Art Association & Museum and other venerable art institutions. His paintings consistently earn national recognition and awards, with recent highlights being the Museum Purchase Award in San Angelo, Texas, Oil Painters of America Award of Excellence, the Alden Bryan Memorial Award for Excellence in Landscape Painting (awarded to Shasha twice in one year) and the Plein Air Easton Artist’s Choice Award.

His popular videos and workshops have helped students understand the fundamental elements of painting light and texture in nature. He’s also an artist faculty presenter at national events, including the 2022, 2023 and 2024 "Plein Air Conventions" and ”Plein Air Live” and "Realism Live" virtual conventions.

When not painting, Mark is an actor and singer playing roles as diverse as Atticus Finch and Willy Wonka. He lives in Swampscott, Massachusetts.

All images ©Mark Shasha