Meet Mark Barone | Artist and Philanthropist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Barone and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, how does your business help the community?
I paint visual records of the spiritual and social challenges of our times, and use my art to stir the conscience of our nation for the emergence of a more compassionate generation.

My art has always mirrored my journey, and is created to give hope to people also struggling with addiction; reminding them to stay anchored in their faith as they traverse the ups and downs and journey toward recovery, trusting that, no matter how hard life gets, they can emerge stronger and live a purpose-filled life.

My philanthropic art…
I painted 5500 shelter dogs to depict the number destroyed every day, and created the non-profit, An Act of Dog, dedicated to using art to be a voice for discarded shelter animals and U.S Veterans.
PBS created a documentary about my 4-year journey for their salvation and the impact we’ve had on school kids.
https://anactofdog.org

Additionally, I’ve received great recognition for creating the first successful and highly awarded Artist Relocation Program, ( American Planning Association Award, Rudy Bruner Award, Govenor’s Award in the Arts, etc) designed to support artists and revitalize blighted neighborhoods using the arts; now the go-to model used by cities to promote art as an economic engine.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a narrative painter, printmaker, and sculptor. I’ve been an artist for over 40 years, and my medium is oils.

I don’t paint to match people’s decor. My work is created to stir people. To get them thinking and feeling about challenging topics, and inspiring deeper conversations toward better solutions.

I am most proud of the way my art has impacted communities, artists, animals, and those in recovery.

Success came from my dedication and commitment to my art. Many of the creative projects I’ve embarked upon were taxing physically and emotionally, but giving up was never an option. I am passionate about painting and making a difference in the world.

I live a purpose-driven life and believe that we are all here to contribute to society in a meaningful way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in Naples, Florida, and there are so many wonderful experiences to be had. If a friend were in town, I would take them to the beautiful beaches, my favorite restaurants ( Food and Thought, Le Indya), as I eat a plant-based diet and prefer healthy options. I would take them to my studio and share my current work, and encourage them to have a go at painting. I would let them drive my tractor, pick lots of fresh fruit & vegetables, and together we would make a creative, tasty, and unforgettable meal.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Big Book by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob

Website: markbarone.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark_barone_art/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkBaroneArt/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@markbaroneart

Image Credits
Mark Barone
An Act of Dog
Aaron Neubert, AIA