The influence of the Italian landscape is clearly evident in the paintings of Colorado artist Mark Pettit. It’s not a huge stretch to understand his proclivity for the Italian essence in his art, as he believes that Italy is his domestic equivalent of a soul mate.

At the same time, nature is Pettit’s backdrop. When he’s not painting, he spends most of his free time on two wheels—road bikes, mountain bikes, or a Harley Davidson, “because this puts me directly in touch with nature and is an excellent way to see and experience the beauty of the American West.”

Mark Pettit

Teton Valley Floor
Oil
24″ x 36″
“I believe everyone, who has ever stood in front of this mountain range, is overwhelmed by the majesty and immense beauty of these rugged peaks. The Tetons have been an enduring source of inspiration for most of my 35 years as a professional painter. It seems every visit to this area gives me something new. This scene, in afternoon light from the Antelope Flats area, has always been one of my favorites.”

Mark Pettit

Rio San Francesco
Oil
17″ x 10″
“The neighborhood of Castello in Venice is generally calm in comparison to other better-known parts of the city. Even to this day it is possible to wander the tranquil areas, experiencing the day-to-day life of the local residents. This scene along Rio San Francesco struck me, because of the reflective stillness in the water and the serenity of this quiet canal.”