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Biography

b. 1990, Seattle, Washington
Lives and works in Brooklyn, NY


Marcus Leslie Singleton is a Seattle born self-taught artist best known for his distinct figurative paintings that cite pointed yet subtle observations. Singleton’s practice offers implicit critiques of contemporary social and political issues while simultaneously inviting viewers to engage in a visceral discourse examining the dialogue around spirituality and social constructs. Through natural, carefree, and playful brush strokes, his work depicts narrative scenes highlighting the trials of reality and its nonphysical components; “I’m interested in creating new paths that aim to contextualize aesthetic beliefs and inspire people to unlearn and humanize us presently and, in the future,” Singleton explains. His presentation of these timelines both highlight and celebrate the multiplicity in society detailing the parallel realities of joy and hardship in a figurative language. Using spontaneity, scale, and expressive placement of color, Singleton’s paintings offer a jovial perspective that is both poignant and bold.

Singleton’s first solo-exhibition with Mitchell-Innes & Nash will take place in December 2023. His works have been included in solo and group shows at The Drawing Center, New York, NY (2022); Jupiter Contemporary, Miami Beach, FL (2022); Journal Gallery, New York, NY (2022); September Gallery, Hudson, NY (2021); University Art Museum, Albany, NY (2021); Superposition Gallery, Amagansett, NY (2021); Steve Turner Gallery, Los Angeles, CA (2020); Journal Gallery, New York, NY (2020); TURN Gallery, New York, NY (2019); Medium Tings, Brooklyn, NY (2018) among others. Recent museum acquisitions include the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami, FL, San Antonio Art Museum, San Antonio, TX and the Portland Museum of Art, Portland, Maine.

All images © Marcus Leslie Singleton.