Mark Stokes was born and grew up in the rugged West Penwith area of Cornwall, where his appreciation for the magnificence of the natural world developed from an early age. Most of his childhood was spent exploring the local coastline, acquiring a love for the deserted beaches, rocky inlets and hidden coves which characterise the area. As a boy, Mark learned to read the tides and prevailing weather conditions through experience, revelling in the timeless beauty of the landscape. Discovering a natural affinity with his surroundings and an awareness of the detrimental effects of commercialisation, Mark happily made this pastime a solitary pursuit, preferring to keep these idyllic locations secret and unspoilt. This respectful and empathetic approach to the natural world has continued throughout Mark's life and features prominently in his work as a photographer.
An accomplished artist in her own right, Mark's mother is one of his greatest influences. Immersed in an artistic environment from an early age, Mark's special talents for composition, tone and texture were magnified through the medium of photography, which he took up in his mid-20's. Mark's images combine his technical expertise with his love and understanding of the natural world, creating a body of work which is unique in both style and content.
Previously the Chairman of a local Camera Club, Mark is now a respected photographic judge and lecturer. He now lives in the beautiful South Hams in Devon, supplying images which are regularly used in many national and international publications, and broadcast on television by the BBC.
Mark's techniques in creating Atmospheric Landscapes have been developed over many years. His work reflects his fundamental philosophy - "Take only images, leave no more than impressions".
