Looking for a new outdoor experience in Sussex in 2025?
Join on #walkandsketch Wellbeing Walks with Hailsham based artist Mark Austin: A Journey Through Art, Nature, and Community
Local artist Mark Austin, known for his minimalist sculptures and line drawings, invites the public to join him on a series of immersive wellbeing walks. These unique events combine art, walking, and nature, offering participants the opportunity to engage with the natural world through the lens of a seasoned artist.
A third-generation artist, Mark has spent over 25 years in the construction industry, which profoundly influences his art. His works, including reclaimed wood sculptures, photographs, drawings, and paintings, reflect his passion for nature and sustainability. Mark's art is rooted in his surroundings, capturing the essence of his environment through simple, sophisticated line drawings and sculptures inspired by the natural elements he encounters on his walks.
"My work is rooted in the world around me, capturing the essence of my view by combining my passions for art, walking, and nature," says Mark. "Over the last three years, my art practice has evolved to explore the topics I come across in my everyday walking and sketching."
Mark's minimalist style, characterized by black and white lines, is the result of thousands of sketches and studies. His works often take the form of triptychs or polyptychs, with each piece capable of standing alone or contributing to a broader narrative. Among his notable series are "Cuckmere," "Seven Sisters," "Windswept Trees," and "Tide," which evoke the beauty and serenity of the Sussex landscape.
In addition to his drawings, Mark's sculptural works, inspired by pebbles found during his walks, explore simple forms and colours. These pieces pay homage to the renowned sculptor Barbara Hepworth, with current collections focusing on themes such as "Flow," "Flint," and "Chalk."
Mark's commitment to the circular economy is evident in his art. He uses reclaimed timber for his sculptures, and even the offcuts are put to use in his firepit, where he makes his own charcoal from his willow tree. His small sculptures, like hearts and trees, are sold with the promise that for every piece purchased, a tree is planted in the Amazon rainforest.
Community engagement is at the heart of Mark's work. As an extrovert, he thrives on shared experiences, which fuel his creativity and inspire his artistic practice. As the Visual Arts Lead and a committee member of The Little Arts Festival 2024, Mark is dedicated to bringing the community together through the arts, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations. His perspective, through the lens of "Past | Present | Future," encourages reflection on the broader impact of art on society.
Mark is now taking his "walk and sketch" sessions to a wider audience, inviting others to join him in this shared experience. These walks are an opportunity to connect with nature, explore personal creativity, and contribute to a collective artistic journey.
Get Involved:
Join a Walk and Sketch: Participate in one of Mark Austin’s wellbeing walks and sketch sessions to share your journey and become part of his.
Support the Circular Economy: Purchase Mark’s sculptures and drawings, and contribute to a sustainable future with each tree planted in the Amazon.
For more information on upcoming events, or to purchase artwork, please visit Mark Austin Artist or contact Mark directly at Contact Mark
About Mark Austin:
Mark Austin is a Hailsham-based artist with over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. Predominantly self-taught, he has developed his skills through art classes and collaborations with other local artists. Mark’s work, deeply connected to nature and sustainability, spans reclaimed wood sculptures, minimalist line drawings, and more. He is also actively involved in community arts, contributing to The Little Arts Festival 2024 and 2025.
Media Contact: Mark Austin
07793 047124
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