Mark is an artist whose work thrives on contrasts: the natural world set against the built environment, the curve of organic forms beside the sharp geometry of human design. Colour, shape and structure sit at the heart of his practice, and he is drawn to the places where these two realms meet and quietly negotiate their coexistence. It is in these spaces — unnoticed by many — that his imagination tends to settle.
His work has attracted the attention of major figures in the art world. Judith Nesbitt, Chief Curator of Tate Britain, once described his approach as “a refreshing and new representation of the region,” a remark that resonated deeply with him, not least because it acknowledged the distinctly Northern perspective that informs much of his vision. Rachel Hidderley, a collector and Director at Christie’s in London, offered another insight, saying, “Mark makes the ordinary look extraordinary.” For an artist who delights in elevating the everyday, the comment struck precisely the chord he hopes to hit with viewers.
Many of his recent pieces were born during the lockdown years — a period that, for many, dulled the sense of connection to the wider world. While daily life contracted, Mark found himself turning with renewed intensity to the landscapes and details close at hand. The result was a body of work that invites people to look again, to rediscover the beauty woven into their immediate surroundings, and to recognise that wonder often lives just beyond the edge of routine.
In addition to his artistic practice, Mark plays a significant role in local sport. He is the Chairman of Rugby at Fylde Rugby Club, where he brings his leadership and creative vision to the club’s development and community engagement. He was Lancashire Head Coach, winning the county championship at Twickenham 8 times and was Sale Sharks backs coach when they won the Premiership in 2006.
His involvement in both the arts and sport reflect his belief in bridging diverse aspects of regional culture — from the creativity of the studio to the teamwork on the field — and underline his dedication to the North West’s cultural and social wellbeing. Mark has been holding annual exhibits of his work since 2012, most of which if not all have been at Fylde Rugby Club.
Mark has also been a finalist in the Lancashire Artist of the year in both 2025 and 2026. He is also a songwriter having songs on Albums by the legendary band The Hollies and is currently in a band called Nelson & Coe. Both his brothers are in The Milltown Brothers whose 2025 Album Boogie Woogie was in the album charts.
His art continues to encourage that act of seeing — a reminder, vivid and insistent, that the world around us remains as striking as ever, if only we pause long enough to notice. Here is just a small sample of his work:
Text source: Mark Nelson and hiswebsite
Images by © Mark Nelson
