We recently connected with David Martinez and have shared our conversation below.
David, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
The thing about being an artist/creative in my experience is an inherent need for self expression. I call this my “beautiful defect”. It drives me to create my artwork, that is the beautiful part. When I don’t have the time or opportunity to make my art I suffer, that is the defect. What haters or nay-sayers say to me is irrelevant because I create for me first and foremost. I am the first and only audience member. I create my work and let the chips fall where they may. If somebody doesn’t like my work, that’s okay, but if someone does appreciate or connects with my art that’s great. I can’t worry about what haters may think and if it is sincere self expression then how is it wrong.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I have loved art ever since I was a young child and it has been a passion of mine my entire life. My first introduction to art was my older brother’s comic book collections. From there my focus shifted to Michelangelo and the Renaissance Masters due in large part to my Catholic upbringing. In my twenties I met, worked and exhibited with many Chicano Artists in Los Angeles. It was at this time I started to find my vision and voice which continues to this day. My work primarily focuses around my Mexican/American culture and upbringing. Whether it is painting historical icons of Mexico’s past like Frida Kahlo or paintings of Dia de Muertos my goal is to share my culture with the world. My ambition and hope is to create a dialogue that will lead to a better understanding of one another.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Persistence is key to the development of any talent or skill. The old adage “practice makes perfect” isn’t too far from the truth. Without persistence/discipline an individual will not be able to grow their talent which in turn will limit the potential that could be reached.
Exposure, it is key for any visual artist to get exposure for their work. Group art shows, community art galleries, libraries, coffee shops any of these are good venues to get your work out to the public. Of course social media is also a great tool but it comes down to a numbers game. The more people that get exposed to your work will lead to more opportunities which can ultimately lead to the attainment of your goals.
The third and final quality if dependability. Live up to your commitments and make sure you follow through on the people you work with. It is of paramount importance that you meet deadlines and do not let your professional contacts down. Whether it is a gallery owner, museum curator or art festival organizer it is important to develop a professional and dependable reputation. Living up to your agreements and commitments can lead to future opportunities.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
I love this question, especially how key my parents were in fostering my love of art and supporting my dreams and passions. Whether it was art supplies or trips to local museums my parents my parents made sure I had the tools and inspiration to make my dream come true. The other thing my parents did was provide me with a limitless amount of encouragement, constructive critiques and love. This would be key in my development as an artist and I still carry with me to this day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.eastlosarte.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastlosarte/#
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Eastlosarte-Galer%C3%ADa-and-Artisan-Shop/100063592209028/
Image Credits
All images and IP rights belong to me.
