We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Martin Lewis a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Martin with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I believe that work ethic is something inherited. It isn’t something you can learn it is something one can only do if exposed to it for a long period of time. My mother, Celeste, had the most amazing work ethic and I inherited this from her. She raised seven children, was a full time house wife until I was 13 and then went back to school to get her RN. My mother epitomizes work ethic, seldom missing a day of work, caring for my father who worked full time as a pastor and always had a fresh meal on the table. I credit her for my strong work ethics.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Art is forever and my style of work represents this! I take found materials from The past and repurpose them into current, applicable pieces of today. I have no limits and no boundaries. That’s of true importance to An artist I believe, not putting yourself Into a box! I’m Constantly exploring and looking for new materials whether it be an old book, magazine, piece of metal, button or cigar box, it doesn’t matter. Each piece from the past has the potential to revive its spirit and enliven the soul. With that said, my favorite tripe of art is collage. I find beauty in the story telling it offers and it allows me great freedom
To do just that. Story tell. Collectors live my work for this reason. It reminds them
Of the past but allows them to contemplate the present. My arts juxtaposition of the past and present make it wonderful!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Don’t be afraid to start and fail. 2. Always try new things.
3. Study art history.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
Robert Henri’s THE ARTIST’S SPIRIT has been most impactful. Henri was an amazing American artist and educator that inspires the artist to continue on no matter what. His book, although he was a fine art painter, resonants with all artists. Through meticulous story telling, and instruction, Henri inspires even the most untalented in any field to take hold of the spirit to create that lives in one. A beautiful, easy read that can be picked up and put down at any point.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.mjlewisart.com
- Instagram: Mjlewisart
