Mark Nilsson Comes Full Circle: 50 Years of Art Returns to Where It All Began

Sep 9

Written By Columbia Community Connection

From The Dalles Art Center:

By Anastasia Yue

The Dalles, Ore., Sept. 9, 2026 — The Dalles, Ore., The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) is proud to present Mark Nilsson: 50 Years of Art, a special exhibition celebrating the remarkable artistic journey of one of the Columbia Gorge's most recognizable painters.

Combining a retrospective of works spanning five decades with an exciting collection of new paintings, the exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience the evolution of an artist whose vibrant use of color and unmistakable style has become synonymous with the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.

Mark Nilsson's artistic journey began in The Dalles at just sixteen years old with his first public exhibition. Fifty years later, he returns to where it all began with a collection that reflects a lifetime devoted to creativity. From early explorations to his bold contemporary work, the exhibition highlights the growth of an artist whose paintings celebrate the beauty, energy, and spirit of the Columbia Gorge and beyond.

Known for his richly saturated colors and expressive compositions, Nilsson transforms familiar landscapes into joyful, luminous experiences. His work invites viewers to rediscover the places they know through a lens of wonder and imagination, while also sharing scenes inspired by decades of travel and artistic exploration.

To celebrate the exhibition, TDAC will host a free Opening Reception on Thursday, October 8, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Guests are invited to meet the artist, enjoy light refreshments, and be among the first to experience this milestone exhibition.

About the Artist

Mark Nilsson has been creating art in the Columbia Gorge for more than thirty years and has spent five decades developing a body of work known for its vivid color and celebration of place. Although he has worked in oils, watercolor, and a variety of other media throughout his career, he now paints primarily in acrylic. His work has appeared on canvases, murals, furnishings, clothing, and illustrations, capturing both the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the many places he has traveled.

Reflecting on this milestone exhibition, Nilsson writes:

"At age 16 I had a small showing of paintings at a shop in The Dalles. That was 50 years ago and since that time, many other works of art have been produced. For some of the years, I made very little art but around 1994, I 'quit the day job' to pursue an art career full time.

2026 makes 30 years for me creating as an artist in the Columbia Gorge. I live now in Hood River. I have painted in oils, watercolors, and other media but nowadays I paint mostly in acrylic. My work is known for vivid colors capturing the beauty of this area as well as from my many travels. My work has included painted furnishings, canvases, murals, clothing, and illustrations. I look forward to sharing my artistic journey through the years at The Dalles Art Center, back to where it all began."

Mark Nilsson: 50 Years of Art runs October 8 – November 14, 2026, at The Dalles Art Center, 220 East 4th Street, The Dalles, Oregon.‍ ‍

The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) connects people in the greater Mid-Columbia Gorge region through engaging and exploring art because a creative and connected community thrives together. TDAC, housed in a historic 1910 Carnegie Library offers art education and public programs for children, adults and seniors. Local artists and artisans exhibit and sell their work in the gallery.