Mark Demsteader’s work displays the simple joy of drawing from life. Though his work is repetitive and can feel somewhat formulaic, he manages to retain an intensity and focus in each piece. Most of his work consists of charcoal drawings of single figures, usualy women, on a blank background with gouache to pull out the lights. It is clear he is interested in both line and form, and seems to refuse to make a choice to go exclusively for either.
The simplicity of his work, the lack of background and lack or narrative, allows the figure to be a subject in and of itself. It is clear he spends a great deal of time selecting poses, reaching for the most graceful, the most beautiful line, and the most interesting shadow patterns.
It is unsurprising that his work sells well. If you like one piece, you’ll probably like most of them. They are skillfully executed and display that balance between the traditional and the modern. What interests me most is his painted work. He does far fewer paintings than drawings, but the ones he does have an atmosphere of longing, emotion and spirituality that is not so present in his charcoal work.
Mark Demsteader’s gallery has many more images
Google him for lots of other galleries stocking his work, with additional images.
The Hidden Place 