John MARA, born on the 16th of October 1972 in Bucharest Romania. Inspired by his father who also is an artist, he has painted his whole life and began classic art studies at the ”Art School of Stockholm” at the age of 15.

At 18 he was accepted at the ”University College of Arts, Crafts and Design” of Stockholm (Konstfack) as one of the youngest students ever.

In 1993 John Mara took both 1st and 2nd place (together with fellow artist Eric Ericson) and became the overall winner of the Scandinavias largest newspaper ”Expressen”, contest in creativity. Notable names in the jury included: Björn Springfeldt (Museum of Modern Art), Colin Nutley (Film Director), Joakim Jonason (Paradiset/DDB) and Dan Wolgers (Artist). The price money was used for further education in London at ”The School of Communication Arts”.

Since then John Mara has worked as an Art Director & Creative Director at the best advertising agencies in Stockholm for 15 years, resulting in numerous international creative awards at the, The New York Festivals in USA, The International Advertising Festival in Cannes, France ”Cannes Lions”, EPICA (Europe’s Premier Creative Award) as well as the national Swedish award ”The Golden Egg” to name a few.

During this time he continued to develop his painting, but kept his artistic work on the side of his creative job.

Since 2007 John Mara is working full time on his art and artistic projects. … Read More