Brian Martin
Artist Statement
My paintings are based upon personal memories and experiences of moving to, and living in, countless typical American neighborhoods. I’m interested in exploring the hidden narratives of the American landscape, employing elements, places, and scenery that are commonly attached to the notion of the suburb and superimposing the personal twist of my memory and perception upon them. My goal is to create psychologically engaging images that are simultaneously familiar and strange.
Much of my latest work has focused on effects of light in the ever changing sky and clouds, particularly around dusk or twilight. I enjoy exploring the mystery of this transitive time of day, as colors change and edges fade, then juxtaposing that against contemporary elements of the landscape - perhaps a reaction to transitions that have been happening in my own life.
Biography
Born in Indiana, PA, Brian Martin moved often as a child, living in many parts of the country - from New York, to Texas, to Florida and places in between. This is the root for his attraction to painting the American landscape. Brian earned his BFA in Illustration from Rhode Island School of Design and his MFA in Painting/Drawing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He has exhibited his art nationally from New Mexico to New England and internationally in Australia. Brian loves teaching drawing, painting , and illustration to eager art students. In addition to making art and teaching, Brian is kept busy as a full-time dad to his very active 6 year old son, Elliott, and husband to his supportive wife, Amy, in North Kingstown, RI.