Marc Schmid Fine Art

Marc Schmid’s use of scratchboard techniques creates intricate, detailed designs. His artwork is a captivating blend of realism and whimsy—sometimes precise, sometimes trippy, but always intriguing.

“Though I’m a sucker for all types of mediums and themes, over the last five years I’ve grown to love scratchboard—and art that flirts with imagination.”

Marc’s art merges the soul, channels the spirits in nature, deciphers messages from dreams within dreams, and escapes through the cracks in his mind. (Yes, really.) He’s begun exploring multiple dimensions—literally—by adding a 3D effect to his scratchboard work. This involves cutting out elements and layering them on top of backgrounds like some sort of mystical collage wizard.

The key is imagination.

Born in Hollywood, Marc was lucky to have been raised by a colorful cast of creative family members. His mother, father, stepfather, and grandfather all worked in high-end department store window design. He traveled the world, decade by decade, absorbing inspiration from different cultures and living in places where the art scene was always alive and kicking.

His father? A Bohemian before it was cool—and also a commercial artist who worked with Disney and co-designed the first catamaran runabout (with Marc’s future stepfather). Later, they even collaborated on a scale model of the Embarcadero Center in San Francisco, which went on to win awards.

His mother recorded a hit single in the 1950s, made costumes, loved design, and was a free spirit adored by many.

His stepfather? An abstract artist, landscape painter, and owner of Shelby Galleries in Sausalito, CA. Not too shabby.

Though Marc was stricken with polio as a child, he was fortunate to receive the vaccine and recovered fully. He’s also survived six concussions—and appears to be mostly okay. Mostly. Marc Attended California College of Arts & Crafts.

In the heyday of the ’60s, he was the lead vocalist and songwriter for The Old Gray Zipper, a band later recognized by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. They played countless shows in the Bay Area alongside legendary acts. He still writes lyrics and poetry to this day.

For over 50 years, Marc has worked as an international, award-winning caricature artist—living and creating in Switzerland, Mexico, New Zealand, and the U.S. He’s done events for Robin Williams, Apple, and other colorful characters and companies. With an added connection to Mexico, he titles much of his Scratch Art – “DREAMS OF THE DEAD”. The assemblage often takes months to complete.

There are—honestly—way too many stories to fit into one bio. But for the past 10 years, Marc has turned his focus toward fine art.

Plans for the future? After the world implodes? More creatures, watercolors, and… who knows?
Other Styles of Marc’s Art:

Caricatures