Mark Bradford

American artist known for his large-scale abstract paintings that often incorporate found materials and explore themes of race, identity, and the urban environment. Born in Los Angeles, California in 1961, Bradford grew up in a tough inner-city neighborhood and was exposed to a wide range of social and political issues from a young age.

Bradford began his career as a hairdresser and salon owner, but he always had a passion for art and began creating his own paintings in his spare time. In the late 1990s, he began to gain recognition for his bold, abstract paintings that incorporated materials like newspaper, posters, and advertising flyers that he collected from the streets of Los Angeles.

Over the years, Bradford's work has continued to evolve and he has become known for his large-scale abstract paintings that often explore themes of race, identity, and the urban environment. His work often incorporates text and imagery from popular culture and incorporates a wide range of materials, including everything from hair and glitter to burned paper and acrylic paint.

Today, Bradford is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential artists of his generation. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world and has been the subject of numerous books and articles. He continues to push the boundaries of abstract painting and is known for his unique, thought-provoking approach to art.