Susan Martin Artist
Statement
I find my subject matter everywhere; in the patterns and
textures of the commonplace, the every day, rather than
the exotic or the perfect. Whether found in nature or
manmade, the subject demands a closer look. The
resulting ‘in-your-face’ compositions are intense. Their
busy patterns and bold colors demand attention, but the
chaos of the subject matter is organized and clarified
through the painting process.
I have applied this
perspective to a number of subjects, ranging from a
series based on recycled materials, shiny aluminum
squashed into outrageous forms, ragged edges of glass
reflecting the sun, paper twisted into an infinity of
patterns, to pieces based on blossoms and leaves. It is
a fascination with patterns that drives my selection of
subject matter, rather than the subjects themselves.
The Interiors Series
displayed in the hallway was based on images from within
a large Poinciana tree. By eliminating the context
provided by background and examining a subject close-up
and enlarged, the resulting compositions can be viewed
abstractly as complex arrangements of colors and
textures with inherent aesthetic value apart from its
representation as flowers, leaves, and branches.
Artist Bio
Susan Martin received a
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art from the University
of Texas at Austin in 1966, then continued with
coursework in Art Education. A significant part of her
educational experience was the opportunity to study
photography and composition under the eminent
photographer Russell Lee.
Lee’s lasting influence
can be observed in her sharp, clean examination of the
subject, her preference for strong contrast that reveals
the surface quality, and emphasis on composition that
comes from years of work in black and white.
Early in her career, the
artist turned to acrylics in her quest for the clean
edges that a quick drying medium can deliver, adding
depth of color through multiple layers of paint. Her
work developed ‘Super-Real’ characteristics, creating an
image beyond the scope of the camera.
Susan Martin’s work has
been purchased for the collections of McGraw-Hill
Companies, Marriott at Orlando International Airport,
Chugai-Upjohn Company, Southern Progress Corporation,
Sterling Drug, Walt Disney World Productions, Brevard
Art Museum, Orange County Convention and Civic Center,
Burdines, First Florida Bank, American Bank, and Vero
Museum of Art.
The artist is represented
by Elegance of the Sea in Vero Beach, and Art4Business
in Philadelphia. She is a founding member of Ten Women
in Art, a twenty-five year organization that exhibits
throughout Florida and the southern states; more of her
work can be viewed on that website,
www.tenwomeninart.com. Martin works out of her studio on
south Merritt Island.
Susan Martin
11630 Point Drive
Merritt Island 32952
Telephone 321: 773-1276
www.tenwomeninart.com
