Martin’s interest in art began at a young age, when he discovered his parents’ books on surrealist artists Salvador Dali and René Magritte, and their elusive predecessor, Hieronymus Bosch.
Over the course of developing his practice, he has drawn upon many varied influences, including lost comic books, tales from British myth and folklore, and vintage magazines depicting the golden age of Hollywood. Recently, he celebrated his first ten years as an artist with a special exhibition, The Deca-Dance of Mr. Ray, at Nottingham’s Surface Gallery.
Today, Martin’s practice also encompasses the production of music, which he describes as the ‘soundtrack’ to his collage work. His latest work in this medium, Earth is Doomed, a collaboration with fellow musician and spoken-word artist Harry Cooper, is an experimental extravaganza that immerses its audience in a wonderful, sonic evocation of his surrealist roots as it explores the concept of growing up, the nature of manhood in the modern age, the nature of Britishness and the range of light and dark elements that surround human existence.
As a co-founder and director of the Carousel, Martin has worked hard to cultivate a vibrant, dynamic and collaborative environment in which a wide range of other artists and artisans can flourish, and one which seeks also to entice the general public into the pleasures of discovery to be had through creative activity.
Listen in to find out more about Martin’s work and career, his creative outlook and his top tips for fellow artists.
Image: Joe Clark, V21 Artspace