Mark Demsteader Biography Mark Demsteader was born in Manchester in 1963 and still lives and works there. He studied at Rochdale college, Oldham art college before and taking up a postgraduate position at the Slade School of Art in London. His drawings have won several awards, including The Public Eye Award, The Lyceum Prize and The Sidney Andrews Scholarship. Mark's work has developed from a fascination with the human form and an obsession with classical themes. These pre-occupations can be seen in recent paintings where his close observation combines with surface texture and carefully balanced compositions to create a beautiful and powerful representation of the figure. In recent years Mark’s reputation has flourished, such that he has become one of the most popular figurative artists working in Britain today. His powerful depictions of the female form in clean assured lines of charcoal and gouache have sparked a renaissance of interest in traditional life drawing amongst today’s art collectors. In a contemporary art market seemingly obsessed with conceptual art Mark’s work is a timely antidote. Mark Demsteader has been purchased by many important collectors, and current demand for his work reflects his growing reputation. His recent exhibitions across the United Kingdom have served to establish him as one of today's outstanding talents. His recent work has been focused on working with the model Erin O’Connor. Her languid pose and sharp features are something of an unusual look in contemporary fashion but timeless in the history of art.