What inspired you to create art and become an artist? (events, feelings, experiences...)
As a US Marine Corps veteran, I had one of the most dangerous jobs in the world—explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), essentially the military's bomb squad. In 2006, I was injured in an explosion and have since been living with PTSD, a traumatic brain injury, and internal injuries. My journey to recovery led me to pursue college, where I completed two master's degrees, and to focus on physical training both inside and outside the gym. More recently, I've turned to art therapy. Although I've always had an interest in creating, it wasn't until December 2023 that I started taking my art seriously. Painting has become a powerful outlet for me, allowing me to express emotions and experiences that I struggle to put into words.
What is your artistic background, the techniques and subjects you have experimented with so far?
My formal background in art is relatively limited. I took some high school art classes and dabbled in creative activities from time to time. Now, I'm pushing my creative and technical skills further by enrolling in a classic oil painting school. Initially, oil paints were intimidating, but I've been making rapid progress. I also enjoy working with acrylic paints and have developed a unique style that combines distinct color placements, brushstrokes, and subjects.
A significant theme in my work is mental health. I've created pieces like "My PTSD," "Rage," and "The Loss of a Friend," which aim to convey my emotions and experiences. I hope that through my art, others can feel a connection to these intense subjects and perhaps find a sense of empathy and understanding.
What are the 3 aspects that differentiate you from other artists, making your work unique?
Three aspects that set me apart as an artist stem from my unique life experiences.
First, my background is quite rare. A very small segment of the military volunteers for the dangerous job of disarming bombs, and an even smaller segment of that community are artists.
Second, I thrive on challenges, always pushing myself to tackle the hardest things in life. I’ve competed in multiple extreme obstacle courses (and even broke my leg during one race), attempted to swim across Tampa Bay in 1999, and push myself intensely in the gym. I believe that physical and mental health are closely intertwined.
Finally, I have a perspective shaped by a near-death experience. When my vehicle was blown up in Iraq, I survived one of the largest improvised explosive device attacks at that time. Surviving such an event profoundly changes a person, and this perspective deeply influences my art.
Where does your inspiration come from?
Creating art is deeply fulfilling for me, driven by a blend of personal and spiritual inspirations. The feeling of accomplishment I get from bringing a vision to life on canvas is incredibly rewarding. I also aim to make others think and feel through my work, challenging them to explore complex emotions and perspectives. Additionally, I find endless inspiration in the beauty that God has blessed our planet with, from the intricacies of nature to the vastness of the skies. Through my art, I strive to capture and share this divine beauty, hoping to inspire awe and contemplation in others.
What is your artistic approach? What visions, sensations or feelings do you want to evoke in the viewer?
My artistic approach is a blend of experimentation and classical techniques, where I enjoy exploring and combining various styles to create a unique vision. I find great satisfaction in pushing the boundaries of traditional art, often mixing methods and mediums to achieve a desired effect. My work spans a wide range of emotions, reflecting the complexity of the human experience. After immersing myself in painting pieces with dark themes related to mental health, I find it incredibly soothing to shift gears and create something happy and light-hearted. This balance allows me to process and express a full spectrum of feelings.
I have a particular fondness for painting animals and whimsical, fantastical scenarios that could never exist in reality. These playful subjects provide a delightful contrast to my more intense works and offer a sense of relief and joy. My goal is to evoke a range of sensations and feelings in the viewer, from deep contemplation and empathy when confronted with the heavier themes, to laughter and wonder when engaging with the more light-hearted pieces. Through my art, I aim to connect with people on multiple levels, encouraging them to reflect on their own emotions and experiences while also providing moments of escape and delight.
What is the process of creating your works? Spontaneous or with a long preparatory process (technical, inspiration from art classics or other)?
My process for creating art starts with finding inspiration, which comes to me naturally and frequently. I am constantly inspired by the world around me, leading to a collection of hundreds of ideas, sketches, and photos that keep my creative juices flowing. When I am ready to start a new painting, I reflect on my current mood to decide on the subject matter. This initial phase is both spontaneous and driven by my emotional state.
Once I have a clear idea in mind, I begin the actual painting, a process that unfolds over several days. As I paint, my mood often shifts, and I let these changes influence my painting style and techniques. This adaptive approach allows my artwork to evolve organically, resulting in pieces that are rich with layers of emotion and expression. While I draw inspiration from art classics and other sources, my work is ultimately a dynamic reflection of my internal journey and the ever-changing inspiration I find in my surroundings.
Do you use a particular work technique? if so, can you explain it?
Yes, I do use a particular work technique that combines elements of the surrealist and impressionist movements. While these styles are not typically paired, I find the juxtaposition of surrealism’s realistic details and impressionism’s broad use of colors and light play intriguing. By blending these approaches, I can create unique and captivating pieces. For instance, surreal scenes take on a different feel when rendered with Van Gogh-like stipple strokes and vibrant, wild colors. This fusion allows me to push boundaries and explore new artistic challenges, which aligns with my passion for tackling difficult and unconventional tasks.
Are there any innovative aspects in your work? Can you tell us which ones?
I believe there are several innovative aspects in my work. One technique I particularly enjoy involves combining two colors on the brush simultaneously and using a puddling technique to arrange the composition. This approach creates unique textures and blends that add depth to my paintings. I also like to play with color in unconventional ways, such as painting a purple dog or creating a monochromatic main theme surrounded by bright, contrasting colors.
Another innovative aspect of my work is my use of AI apps to generate reference material. This might seem like an unusual relationship, but I find it fascinating to draw inspiration from artificial intelligence. Sometimes, I even put my own photos into an AI app and let the app distort reality, which provides me with fresh, unexpected perspectives to incorporate into my art. Additionally, I take a lot of photographs that serve as reference material, constantly motivating me to create. By combining these various sources of inspiration and techniques, I strive to push the boundaries of traditional art and explore new creative possibilities.
Do you have a format or medium that you are most comfortable with? if yes, why ?
Yes, I do have a format and medium that I am most comfortable with. I primarily work with acrylic paints because they offer versatility and quick drying times, which suit my spontaneous and adaptive artistic process. Additionally, I’ve been advancing my skills in oil painting, even though it initially intimidated me. The rich texture and depth of oil paints allow me to experiment with blending techniques and color play that are central to my style. Combining elements from surrealism and impressionism, I enjoy creating pieces that use stipple strokes and vibrant colors, often with a unique twist, like a purple dog or a monochromatic theme surrounded by bright hues. This blend of mediums and techniques helps me express the full range of my inspirations and emotions, from darker mental health themes to light-hearted, whimsical subjects.
Where do you produce your works? At home, in a shared workshop or in your own workshop? And in this space, how do you organize your creative work?
I produce my works in a small studio and home office, affectionately known as my "creative chaos zone." Here, amidst a delightful clutter of canvases and art supplies, I unleash my artistic flair. Interestingly, my painting area also extends into the kitchen, where there's always an easel set up. This strategic placement ensures that I can multitask—creating masterpieces while stirring up dinner. It's quite the scene: a culinary canvas of flavors and colors alongside my literal canvas of creativity!
The atmosphere is always lively, with music blaring from every corner. My family often gets a colorful commentary on my work-in-progress between bites of whatever experimental dish I've whipped up. The music, from upbeat tunes to soulful ballads, has a curious effect on my mood and subsequently influences my color choices and artistic decisions. Who knew a salsa beat could inspire a vibrant palette or a slow jazz melody could evoke nuanced brushstrokes? It's a harmonious symphony of culinary and creative arts, where every stroke is seasoned with a dash of inspiration and a sprinkle of family banter.
Does your work lead you to travel to meet new collectors, for fairs or exhibitions? If so, what does it bring you?
Yes, my artistic pursuits often lead me to travel, which adds a vibrant dimension to my creative journey. While I travel primarily for my day job, I always make it a point to set aside a day to explore local art museums and galleries. These visits not only enrich my understanding of different artistic styles and techniques but also inspire me with fresh perspectives and ideas. As a member of Artists in Arms, a veteran artist group, I find camaraderie and support, exchanging insights and experiences with fellow artists who share a similar background.
I actively participate in free or inexpensive art contests as a way to challenge myself and gain exposure. Engaging with viewers through social media allows me to connect directly with an audience who appreciates and resonates with my work, providing valuable feedback and encouragement. Additionally, I make a point to visit art shops wherever I go, not to follow trends but to seek out unique materials and ideas that spark my creativity. These travels and engagements broaden my artistic horizons, fueling my passion and pushing me to continually evolve as an artist. During my service in the USMC, I had a mission in France and had the opportunity to visit the Louvre, an experience that deeply influenced my appreciation for art history and masterpieces.
How do you imagine the evolution of your work and your career as an artist in the future?
Looking ahead, I envision a dynamic evolution of both my artwork and career as an artist. Building on my background in explosive ordnance disposal in the USMC and my business degree, I see myself continuing to explore and integrate diverse artistic techniques and styles. My journey in art has been shaped by a blend of surrealism and impressionism, often pushing the boundaries with unconventional color palettes and experimental techniques like combining two colors on the brush or using AI-generated imagery for inspiration.
As I continue to refine my skills in oil and acrylic painting, I aim to further develop a cohesive body of work that explores themes of mental health, surrealism, and the natural beauty I find so inspiring. Collaborating with Artists in Arms and participating in art contests will remain crucial avenues for growth and exposure, while engaging with a broader audience through social media will allow me to share my artistic journey and connect with supporters worldwide.
From a career perspective, I aspire to expand my presence in the art community, participating in more exhibitions and establishing relationships with collectors who resonate with my unique artistic vision. With my business acumen, I aim to navigate the art market strategically, balancing creative expression with entrepreneurial savvy to sustain and grow my artistic practice. Ultimately, I see my art evolving as a reflection of my personal journey, continually pushing boundaries and inspiring others through creativity and resilience.
What is the theme, style or technique of your latest artistic production?
My latest artistic production features Don Quixote, portrayed in a monochromatic style against a backdrop of vibrant, swirling colors. This piece holds special significance for me beyond its visual appeal. Don Quixote's character embodies a spirit of resilience and courage in the face of adversity, qualities that resonate deeply with my own journey as a US Marine Corps veteran and bomb disposal technician. His pursuit of lofty ideals, despite the odds stacked against him, mirrors my own quest to overcome challenges and find meaning through art and creativity.
The monochromatic rendering of Don Quixote emphasizes his timeless and universal themes, while the dynamic and colorful background reflects the energy and passion I bring to my artistic expression. This juxtaposition symbolizes the contrast between inner strength and external challenges, a theme that runs through much of my work. Through this painting, I aim to convey a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging viewers to find courage and inspiration in their own pursuits, much like Don Quixote's enduring quest for noble ideals amidst a vibrant and unpredictable world.
Can you tell us about your most important exhibition experience?
One of my most memorable exhibition experiences was both humbling and amusing. Amidst the diverse interpretations of my art, there was a particular instance that stands out. Picture this: a room filled with eloquent critiques and thoughtful analyses of various artworks, and in the midst of it all, my piece—a bowl full of grenades. Now, to most, it might evoke deep symbolism or provoke reflection on the nature of conflict. However, for a seasoned bomb tech like myself, it was simply an exercise in still life, albeit with a touch of explosive charm!
What made this experience truly special was witnessing how art has the power to spark conversations across different perspectives. From the profound to the lighthearted, every interpretation added depth to the exhibition, highlighting the universal appeal and impact of visual expression. As an artist, I cherish these moments where my work connects with others in unexpected and meaningful ways, reminding me of the diverse stories and experiences that shape our understanding of art and life.
If you could have created a famous work in the history of art, which one would you choose? And why ?
If I could have created any famous work in the history of art, it would undoubtedly be the Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo. Beyond its undeniable artistic genius, the Sistine Chapel ceiling is a monumental testament to human achievement and devotion. Michelangelo's masterpiece not only glorifies God and His creation but also embodies the profound dedication and skill required to undertake such an immense project.
As someone who appreciates the challenge of accomplishing difficult tasks, the Sistine Chapel represents the pinnacle of artistic and technical prowess. The sheer scale and complexity of the work, combined with its enduring impact on art and culture, inspire me deeply. It serves as a timeless reminder of the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect humanity with the divine. Creating something of such grandeur and spiritual significance would be an ultimate expression of artistic ambition and devotion to craft.
If you could invite one famous artist (dead or alive) to dinner, who would it be? How would you suggest he spend the evening?
If I could invite one famous artist (dead or alive) to dinner, it would be the creator of the Voynich manuscript, whose identity remains unknown to this day. The Voynich manuscript is a mysterious, 15th-century book filled with intricate illustrations and written text in an unknown script that has defied decipherment for centuries. Its creation is shrouded in mystery, with scholars speculating about its origins and purpose, adding layers of intrigue to its enigmatic pages.
During our dinner, I would be fascinated to hear firsthand about the challenges and inspirations behind crafting such a cryptic work. We might discuss the painstaking effort required to create each page, from the elaborate botanical illustrations to the perplexing script that has baffled linguists and cryptographers alike. Over the centuries, numerous experts, including renowned codebreakers and AI systems, have attempted to crack the Voynich code, yet its secrets remain tantalizingly elusive.
I would be eager to discuss how the manuscript's mysterious content has sparked countless theories and interpretations, ranging from alchemical treatises to herbal medicine guides or even elaborate hoaxes. Our conversation would delve into the intersections of art, mystery, and the enduring allure of the unknown, making for a dinner filled with intellectual curiosity and a sense of wonder at the boundaries of human creativity and understanding.
Olimpia Gaia Martinelli
