There seems to be an elusive nature to reality, what is happening independent of us, and how we perceive these events. What we call reality is the negotiation between these two components. We interpret reality through perception and memory. This is subject to change, can eventually fade, and is interpreted by our current situation, or understanding of these events. Our perception is mainly influenced by memory. The memory inherent in our genes, and the memory acquired from experience. From these components our personalities are formed. Our personalities fulfill a need, a role, in which we play a part in our own lives, and the lives of others. I am interested in how reality is both, personal, and collective.
In my work, I create images in oil, charcoal drawings and sculpture that are based on personal experiences. I use the traditional mediums of painting and sculpture, which lend themselves to both reality and the abstract. These mediums also have an established language, and inherent power, which is both personal and collective. I am interested in creating open narrative work, because of its ability to play in the arena of the imagination. It can be interpreted and reinterpreted as the viewer matures. I exploit mythology’s ability to illustrate meaning on multiple levels. Thus, I can be simultaneously abstract and incredibly straightforward. Using archetypes and analogies allows me to make work which is arresting, absorbs and unquestioned, allowing the viewer to make up their own experience.
Efrain Martinez
In my work, I create images in oil, charcoal drawings and sculpture that are based on personal experiences. I use the traditional mediums of painting and sculpture, which lend themselves to both reality and the abstract. These mediums also have an established language, and inherent power, which is both personal and collective. I am interested in creating open narrative work, because of its ability to play in the arena of the imagination. It can be interpreted and reinterpreted as the viewer matures. I exploit mythology’s ability to illustrate meaning on multiple levels. Thus, I can be simultaneously abstract and incredibly straightforward. Using archetypes and analogies allows me to make work which is arresting, absorbs and unquestioned, allowing the viewer to make up their own experience.
Efrain Martinez