Mario Andrés Colón is a contemporary representational painter and illustrator. His work is narrative in nature and deals with themes derived from contemporary life, lyrical and literary influences, and experiences from his day-to-day. He received his MFA from Laguna College of Art and Design where he studied painting. Mario has works held in private and public collections, and has participated in solo and group exhibitions. Mario currently resides in the greater Utica area where he teaches at Mohawk Valley Community College. As an educator, Mario assists his students in developing technical skills in drawing, painting, and digital media. His teaching philosophy centers around the development of observational and analytical drawing skills. “As an educator my main goal is to help the student develop a working toolbox of skills that will allow them to actualize their individual vision.”