About

About Mark Gear

Mark Gear is a contemporary British artist based in Chamonix, the iconic ski town nestled in the French Alps. Since moving there in 1996, he has divided his time between painting and his other lifelong passion—skiing.

In addition to his art, Mark is an elite-level ski instructor and founder of All Mountain Performance, offering specialised off-piste ski courses for experienced skiers since 2004.

Mark’s artwork is deeply influenced by the mountains that surround him. His paintings capture the thrill of skiing and the beauty of alpine landscapes, blending bold acrylic techniques with an intimate knowledge of skiing technique, snow, light, and terrain. This fusion of artistry and mountain and skiing expertise results in truly unique, dynamic and immersive works.

His skiing-themed series explores everything from snow texture to the interplay of light across rugged slopes, portraying not just scenes, but sensations. These pieces have earned a place in private collections around the world, including those of professional skiers, and have been featured in Outside Bozeman Magazine in Montana, USA.

When the snow melts, Mark’s focus can shift. Inspired by nature and travel, his creative lens sometimes broadens beyond the ski world—yet tends to reflect his deep connection to the outdoors.

Artist Statement

My work is a celebration of movement, light, and a deep connection between humans and the mountains. Living in Chamonix since 1996, I’ve drawn endless inspiration from the dramatic landscapes of the French Alps—particularly the ever-shifting world of snow and skiing.

As both a painter and an elite-level ski instructor, I experience the mountains in two profoundly personal ways: through the physical sensation of skiing and through the meditative process of painting. This dual perspective shapes my artistic practice. Using acrylics on canvas, I aim to capture not just the visual drama of alpine environments, but also the energy, emotion, and freedom found within them. I see skiing as a beautiful art. Done correctly, it's a stunning sight to behold, even to the non skier. I aim to fuse the aesthetics of skiing with the beauty of art.

My skiing-themed works explore the textures of snow, the play of light on the terrain, and the fleeting moments that define life on the mountain. Each piece reflects both a deep technical understanding of skiing and my imaginative interpretation of the landscape. The result is unique artwork that resonates with skiers, mountain people, nature lovers, and collectors alike. 

While much of my work is deeply rooted in winter, my creative process can evolve with the seasons. During the warmer months, I draw from the natural world more broadly, allowing new environments and experiences to inform my palette and perspective.

Ultimately, my art is about immersion—in nature, in movement, and in the feeling of being there, alive in the moment and skiing freely in the mountains.