Artist Profile: Marilyn Sparks

Painting Memories

By Maria Klouda

Old barns, regional landscapes and fields of flowers are just some of the images of the simplicities of the south that are lovingly created by Georgia artist, Marilyn Sparks.

Marilyn retired from the fashion industry after thirty years of producing shows all over the country. The impact of off-shore competition and the growth of the internet changed the industry significantly. Instead of seeing the changes as the end of her career, Marilyn reinvented herself and began a second career as a successful artist. Coincidentally, theres a strong parallel between producing a fashion show and creating a piece of art. Both mediums create a picture. The first uses models, music and merchandise. The second is created with a canvas, paint and passion.

Marilyn has never had a formal lesson, I just paint, she says. She admits she might have benefited from formal instruction, but she didnt want to be overly influenced by the process. Since Marilyn never learned the rules, she finds freedom in the ability to create art as it comes to her.

Her first piece was painted on a scrap of canvas that had been a prop in a previous fashion show, using leftover house paint she found in the garage and brushes that she already had on hand. She knew she was on to something when she took one of her pieces to a frame shop, and the associate mentioned that they were familiar with the artist. Knowing that they couldnt be familiar with her work, Marilyn continued to paint in earnest.

Beginning with acrylics, Marilyn eventually made the switch to oils. She began experimenting and became drawn to the smell, feel and texture of the medium. Her works are inspired by her memories. Summers spent on the family farm have influenced her art. Many of these iconic structures are disappearing from the landscape.

Marilyn is overwhelmed with gratitude about her success as an artist. She is grateful and honored that clients would choose one of her paintings to hang in their home or business. Each piece is bold, bright, charming and peaceful, much like the artist behind the easel.

Locally, her work can be found at Taylor Kinzel Gallery in Roswell. She also participates in the annual Spotlight on Art Gala and Auction, which is hosted by the Trinity School in Atlanta. Her work can also be found at High Country in Blue Ridge; The Summer House in Highlands, NC; Red Bird Gallery in Seaside, FL, and in six Grand Bohemian Galleries throughout the southeast. Marilyn does not sell direct to the public, but she accepts commissions. You can find more information online at MarilynSparks.com/.