2002 Bio
Mark Manning, a watercolor artist, is a native of Kansas City, Kansas, and now lives in Merriam, Kansas.
"The Nature of Art" art show is the second art event produced by Mark Manning and the Merriam Parks and Recreation Department. You may read about the first event, "Take a Second Look at Turkey Creek Streamway
Park," here.
In the 1970's and early 80's his work was the subject of numerous one-man shows. His shows were not only exhibits and sales of his artistic creations but also
festive, annual weekend events enjoyed by hundreds of guests.
Mark's exhibit at the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Library drew both public and national attention resulting in a segment featuring his life and paintings on a national television program on TBS.
Mark has been commissioned to produce artistic works for local businesses as well as
dozens of portraits of private residences in Wyandotte County and Johnson County, Kansas.
In 1984 Mark moved to Lakewood, Colorado, to be part of a local church. While
living in Colorado he completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in art history at the
Metropolitan State College of Denver. While in school he continued to accept commissions
for portraits of private residences including homes in Grosse Point, Michigan; Beverly
Farms, Massachusetts; Bay St. Louis, Mississippi; and Keller, Texas, as well as many in
the Denver area.
In 1994 Mark Manning's portrait of the U.S. Capitol was chosen for the cover of the Very
Special Arts national calendar. He later served on the board of directors for
Very Special Arts Colorado, a state chapter of the national organization founded by Jean
Kennedy Smith for the promotion of the arts in the lives of physically challenged
children.
Mark moved from Colorado to Merriam, Kansas, in 1995 to be closer to his mother and
nine brothers and sisters as well as his 31 nieces and nephews. He enjoys a full and rich
life and credits his faith in Jesus Christ as the source of all strength and joy in his
life.
Mark Manning is available for commissions. Original, matted watercolor portraits
of homes begin at $450.
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