stencil painting (sb202)

Name: Mark Traughber

Shop name: Bloodle

Website: www.bloodle.com  

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

A little bit about Mark:
I’m originally from Kentucky, where I grew up on a farm. I received my B.A. in studio art from Western Kentucky University, and my MFA in painting from East Carolina University. I moved to Pittsburgh about 3 years ago.

What do you sell that would appeal to the guys?
Hmmm… I don’t really think about my audience in guy/girl terms. but being that my work is coming from a male perspective, I could see where some of my work might appeal to guys more. I think my stencil work for example seems to have more of a masculine aesthetic to it and many of my themes and/or imagery is probably unmistakably masculine.

Where to you sell your stuff?
Several art galleries, Etsy, and at various art festivals throughout the country.

stencil painting (Sb189)

How long have you been in business?
For about 3 years now I’ve been able to support myself through my artwork.

How did you get started?
I’ve just always liked to make stuff/art. It just kind of evolved into what I do for a living in no small part because I’ve never been satisfied with any other job that I have had. Making art is what I enjoy most and am most passionate about, so it just seemed logical that it is what I should spend most of my time doing.

stencil painting (sb300)

How do you get the word out about your shop?
Various ways, but primarily through traveling and showing my work at art festivals, meeting and talking to lots of people, and passing out tons of cards.

What’s your creative process?
I just pick up a paint brush or Exacto knife or spray paint can each day and go to work. There’s not much structure to my process. I basically throw down as many ideas on canvas and paper as I can, and see which one’s stick. Each series or individual work kind of leads me on its own path.

stencil painting (sb291)