MARK R.PUGH
“The Girl and the Empty Mailbox and Other Stories”
Mark R. Pugh: The Girl and the Empty Mailbox and Other Stories Exhibition Dates: April 18 - May 5
Arcadia Contemporary is delighted to announce, “The Girl and the Empty Mailbox and Other Stories,” the debut, solo exhibition by Mark R. Pugh. This collection of new 20 oil paintings expands on Mark’s evolving narrative anthology, blending traditional realism with whimsical, storybook elements.
The artist likens his creative process akin to songwriting and its structure of melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyrics all while balancing concept, subject, background, and execution. Pugh explains “These elements need to work in harmony -this occurs simultaneously, almost like a stream of consciousness while at other times, the entire concept begins with a simple ink sketch of a small detail from the background.”
Central to this exhibition is Pugh’s relationship with his subjects—primarily his four daughters, who often serve as models. While personal, Pugh abstracts these familial bonds to focus on universal themes of innocence, curiosity, and the transition to knowledge, making each painting a relatable story rather than a personal anecdote. The exhibition’s title piece, “The Girl and the Empty Mailbox,” exemplifies Pugh’s thematic intentions. It captures a clear narrative that, according to Pugh, best represents the exhibition’s aims: to invite viewers to uncover the stories within each painting and beyond.
Pugh’s style is influenced by a range of sources, from John William Waterhouse’s narrative works to the storybook charm of early 20th-century illustrators and American writer Edward Gorey’s macabre-surrealism.
“The Girl and the Empty mailbox and Other Stories” will be on view at Arcadia Contemporary from April 18 - May 5, 2024. On Thursday, April 18th, 2024, an opening reception will be held from 6-8pm which is open to the public and the artist will be in attendance.
Cover of American Art Collector Issue 223, Apr. 2024.
Cover of Fine Art Connoisseur, Apr. 2023.
April 18 - May
May 5, 2024
Young Artist Sketching a Bird Oil and Graphite on Linen 36” x 60”
Girl Sitting for a Portrait on an Unusually Windy Day Oil and Ink on Linen 30” x 48”
Sorrow and the Girl with the Flower Oil and Ink on Linen 36” x 24”
The Girl with Scissors and the Prize Winning Rose Bush Oil and Ink on Linen 30” x 30”
Girl Fixated on the Dark Spot of an Apple Oil and Ink on Linen 24” x 24”
Girl with an Ornate Mirror and Brush Oil and Ink on Linen 30” x 20”
Oil and Graphite on Linen
20” x 16”
Girl with Winter Berries
Girl with Twine (Winter Night) Oil and Ink on Linen 18” x 12”
Girl
Girl Quietly Listening to the Sound of an Imminent Storm Oil and Ink on Linen 16” x 12”
Girl and a Snowy Meadow Oil and Graphite on Linen 12” x 9”
The Key to the Black Gate Oil and Graphite on Linen 10” x 8”
