Artist Profile: Mark Lemon

By Wade Dillon

Portion of the book's cover

A new name can join the ranks of well known Alamo artists and that is Mark Lemon. His most recent project, "The Illustrated Alamo: 1836" allows the reader to tour the Alamo compound as it may have appeared in that unforgettable year. As to when the forthcoming book is to be released, nothing is known at this point. But, be sure to read the most recent copy of The Alamo Journal for an exclusive interview with Mark and a few preliminary sketches.

About Mark....

A pointilist style drawing of the Alamo church

"I was born in Atlanta, GA, and graduated from the University of Georgia with a BFA in Graphic Design. I was a Naval Officer for ten years, spending most of my time in Special Warfare, and worked with new warfare systems such as the assault hovercraft called the "Landing Craft, Air Cushion" or "LCAC." After the Navy, I worked for 5 years with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) as a Criminal Investigator. Family health problems forced me to resign this position and move back to the Atlanta area, where I have worked as a Private Investigator for the last 12 years. A history buff in general, I am a lifelong Alamo enthusiast, having visited there about 7 times, the first time being when I was about 13 years old. I have grown more and more frustrated that some artist with a keen eye for detail has not done the research and produced a really comprehensive illustrated book about the Alamo as it appeared during the siege of 1836. Not wanting to wait any longer, I decided that I had to do this myself. It will have over 130 detailed illustrations done in water color, and I have to date finished about 15 of them. I have just recently finished all of the detailed sketches, about 115 in number, and will start the painting process soon. A publisher in Austin has expressed an interest in publishing the book, so hopefully it will be out next year, if all goes as planned."

Looking into the coral

The long barracks from the East wall

Birds eye view of the eastern side of the compound

Eastern face of the Convento

Fighting for the 18 pounder

Be sure to check back soon for another showcase of great Alamo artwork!

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