Medium: framed and matted ink and graphite pencil drawing

Artist Statement: Mark Ralston is in his 40th year teaching high school Art at Jefferson West High School in Meriden Kansas. He was awarded the Secondary Art Teacher of the Year in 2019 by the Kansas Art Education Association. At Emporia State University, Mr. Ralston received a BFA in Ceramics and Masters of Art/Master Teacher degree with an emphasis in Ceramics and Photography. Mark creates original wheel-thrown ceramics in his home studio in North Topeka. His ceramics has received many accolades from art exhibitions and art fairs. Mark is also always actively pursuing his love for drawing and photography. Mr. Ralston has been honored to jury many area high school league art shows. He is currently a photographer for Topeka Civic Theater and Helen Hocker Theater.

When it comes down to it, ART is all around us and is an act of communication that can be experienced through the process of creating or by interacting with art as a viewer. My favorite quote on art is from Walter Pater: "Art comes to you proposing frankly to give nothing but the highest quality to your moments as they pass." The "highest quality to your moments" is so true. The act of creating art is such a joyous process for me. I also love the history of Art and love viewing how artist currently and throughout history have approached the creative process. I also have the honor to share my passion and knowledge of Art with my students. This too brings me much joy.

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