EAGLE ARTIST FINDS INSPIRATION IN IDAHO’S PAST & PRESENT

Mark Shawver captures essence of everyday life in acrylics

When Mark Shawver moved to Eagle with his wife, Denise, in 2020, his new community and surroundings inspired him to capture everyday scenes by painting them on canvas. Shawver painted as a hobby for many years, and started painting part time in 2000, then full time in 2011. Over the years, the photos he took throughout his travels became the focus of his paintings, and he began replicating those scenes and compiling collections which would lead to exhibits and shows. Today, Shawver loves exploring Idaho and capturing the beauty this great state offers, and sharing his paintings with local community members.

Original artwork by Shawver is gaining attention throughout Eagle and the Treasure Valley, as the moments of daily life he captures strikes a chord with those who see his artwork. A member of the Eagle Arts Advisory Committee, Shawver’s work has been displayed locally with exhibits at Boise Art by the River at the Greenbelt Market, the Eagle Art Walk , Eagle City Hall, and various cafes and restaurants. Shawver’s most recent show was at the Initial Point Gallery at the Meridian City Hall. The exhibit titled “Yesterday and Today” included a series of paintings based on photographs from the Idaho Historical Society.

“I believe it’s important to maintain a connection with our heritage and remember the people and places that existed years ago.” Shawver said. “That was my inspiration for that exhibit as well as other paintings I’ve worked on.”

One particular project Shawver is proud of was a mural he painted for Kaiser Pleasanton Hospital. Shawver responded to a call for artists for this project and out of 47 entries, Shawver was chosen to execute his design. In 2018, he was commissioned to design the four 4’ x 7’ panels that created one massive mural which welcomes visitors to the Kaiser Permanente media offices. Titled “Live Well, Be Well” the mural showcases healthy life choices in iconic Pleasanton location.

Another collection of paintings titled, “The Family Album Redux” includes paintings inspired by his family’s old photo album. Many of those works can be found as part of his exhibits and throughout his Eagle home.

“I knew right away that I had to make paintings based on these wonderful, nostalgic photos of our past. Most of the pictures are of family members. Some include people we don’t even know,” he said.

Words often used to describe Shawver’s work include Americana, Realism, Narrative and Kitsch.

Examples of Shawver’s work along with a list of exhibitions can be found on his website, shawver.com. Those interested in following him on social media can do so on Instagram @shawverart and on Facebook at Mark Shawver Fine Art.

Meeting fresh-faced “glowing” Jodi was a surprising treat today. After a quick tour of her rather roomy place @islandglowspraytans we immediately connected with her charming vulnerability to share life, motherhood (she has 4 children as well), and the reason why she started Island Glow.

Jodi was diagnosed with Melanoma in 2010, was tired of teaching in SoCal, and made Eagle her home in 2011. Like many, she got the entrepreneurial itch and delve into the “why and what” of this new business.

The outcome: Island Glow – a boutique studio offering custom organic spray tans, organic teeth whitening and ear piercing in the heart of Eagle Idaho.

Organic spray tan: Customized tanning that is safe and natural protecting your skin against the potential risk of skin cancer

DaVinci organic teeth whitening: For a beautiful white smile that others will surely notice

Ear piercing: Ultimate care in a boutique environment

A little body glow and a confident white smile can make a great impression and better yet, empower your soul! When you feel good, others feel good around you.

P.S. They also have a boutique in the front that has clothing, accessories and after care products. This boutique is definitely worth checking out.