Biography/Artist Statement

In 1974 Mark migrated from Illinois, where he was born, to Austin, TX to attend the University of Texas majoring in English Literature. He and his brother Peach supplemented their income by making handmade kaleidoscopes and selling them on " the drag". After completing his education, Mark and Peach went into scope making full time. As pioneers in a kind of kaleidoscope renaissance, they built a by-the-seat-of-your-pants business designing hand-made scopes that included a camerascope, electroscope, and various hand painted and wood styles. Earlier models had an endearing quality, but with the discovery of front surface mirrors, image clarity became the benchmark for the future of scope appreciation. Art shows, then in their infancy, were the largest market for their work, along with galleries and gift catalogs worldwide. In the late 80's Peach gravitated toward a real job in Real Estate, while Mark continued on in the world of kaleidoscopes and light sculptures under the banner of "Kaleidovisions". Fortunately for Mark, Carol, his soon-to-be-wife, swept into action as artist partner. Daughter to a decorated flight navigator and Air Force Mom, Carol has been the "navigator" for the business ever since. Together they continue to design, build and show their high quality pieces at shows and galleries all across the country.