Technique and intricate
use of shadows combine with a craftsman's sense of making a statement
in artist Marlan Masteller's work; "I want people to relate and be
moved emotionally by what I draw."
The emphasis of his style lies in the detail. The fine wire touches of the rapidograph pen cross-hatch layer upon layer, giving depth and a photographic keenness to his work.
Using ink in such a large format is extremely rare. The purchase of an original or the commission of a personalized portrait guarantees you a unique, one of a kind piece.
An excess of 100 hours is not uncommon in Masteller's application. Marlan has been selling his original art for more that 30 years with sales made through his own studio in Clear Lake, Iowa.
Born and raised in Iowa, Masteller received his formal training at
the School of Associated Arts, St. Paul, Minnesota, but his travels
in Europe, Mexico and around the United States provide experience for
his continuing studies. He has spent sixty years experiencing
life's passages and is blessed with a wife, Terri, two wonderful
children, and a neurotic golden retriever.
His occupation is owning a Midwest corporate art source, but his passion lies in bringing pictures to life. Most of his ideas come from sifting through antique magazines and books, as well as his own photography. After spending hundreds of hours drawing his characters, Marlan feels really close to them and can almost hear them speak to him.
"I hope you can feel the life in my art as much as I enjoy creating it. Thank you for your interest in my work."