Mark Rouse's journey from a farm in Hamilton County, Indiana, to central Indiana's art scenes is marked by resilience and creativity. Born in Indianapolis, his early life on a farm cultivated a love for nature that is often featured in his work.  A supportive high school art teacher set him on the path to pursue art education at Anderson College.  After college, he taught junior high art for seven years.  A growing family caused Mart to transitioning to a 30-year career in the computer industry. In 2015, Diabetic Retinopathy led to legal blindness, but nine surgeries and a couple miracles restored his vision, reviving his passion for painting. This challenge shifted his focus to vibrant representations and vivid colors in his work.

Mark combines traditional and digital methods in his art. He starts with a watercolor wash, digitizes the image, and then uses acrylic paints, finishing with a clear gel for texture—a technique honed during his vision recovery. His work, celebrated for its stained-glass-like luminosity, is inspired by artists such as Marc Chagall and Georgia O'Keeffe.  Mark is active in the Central Indiana art community, often exhibiting his art with the Hamilton County Art Association, Noblesville Creates, and the Fishers Arts Council.  In addition to a permanent home at the CCA Gallery in Carmel, Marks work can often be found on display at the Anderson Museum of Art, The Harrison Center, and the Minnetrista Gallery. 

Mark has won accolades like People's Choice and Best of Show at the Jiffy Lube Juried Exhibit and been featured in the American Academy of Ophthalmology Journal. His story of overcoming adversity through art is shared in television programs like Indy Now. Through his art, Mark expresses resilience and a divine connection, capturing moments that resonate deeply with audiences.