Background
At first impression, Mark Bryan’s surreal and whimsical work seems just for fun but usually contains underlying symbolic comment about life in these times and human nature in general.
When the time came to choose an occupation Bryan studied architecture at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo but eventually realized art was his best path to free expression. While attending Otis Art Institute in Los Angeles (Master of Fine Arts, 1974), Bryan took up with the early founders of the Chicano Art movement (Los Four). They introduced him to the Mexican Muralists’ work of the early 20th century and the value of a tradition of accessible work with social/political content.
In spite of the disturbing nature of his topics, Bryan always manages to portray them in a humorous and seductive fashion. Although most known for his political work savaging the Bush administration, Bryan directs many of his efforts inward, producing work from the imagination. At first impression, this surreal and whimsical work seems just for fun but usually contains underlying symbolic comment about life in these times and human nature in general.
Bryan has exhibited his work throughout the US, Canada, Europe and Japan. His work appears on numerous satirical and political websites across the US and internationally. It has also been featured as illustration and cover art for publications, including Juxtapoz and Adbusters magazines.