ABOUT MARVIN VINES

Marvin Vines - Artist

May 7, 1943 - Feb 19,1997

 

As a child, Marvin Vines enrolled in art classes at the Toledo Museum of Art. He continued to refine his natural talent, graduating from the University of Toledo with a master’s degree in art education. Known in the art world as MarVines, he combined two disciplines—art and education—to convey with visual images the plight and social concerns that America tried to forget. His illustrations of inner-city youth defy stereotypes and instill a sense of pride, strength, and courage. Like Marvin Gaye, MarVines asked through his art, “What’s going on?” and explored the themes vocalized in “Inner City Blues” and “Brother, Brother.” MarVines’ background as a draftsman enabled him to illustrate the presence and essence of his subjects with precision and remarkable clarity. His mastery of multiple media—including acrylics, collages, color transparencies, pen and ink drawings, and leathering and sculpturing—is evidenced by an inventory of several hundred candid and exceptional works of art. You will see the same precise artistic mastery in quieter themes such as landscapes and still life works. This is the legacy left to you. This is the legacy left by MarVines. Explore his art; witness the intensity of his spirit and pursuit of excellence that lives on in his work.