Stemming from a childhood love of Renaissance art and graphic novels, the work of Ferris Martinez focuses largely around the representational, with particular emphasis given to portraiture and the human figure.
Recently this approach has shifted towards the incorporation of more abstract elements and less reliance on static reference materials, undergirded by a larger technical investigation into color and more intuitive mark making as seen through the prism of using figures from pop culture and friends as models.
This is part of a lifelong process of trying to describe the internal state, the vibrant impressions and forces – whether for better or worse – that rule us, that govern our perception of ourselves and outward expression. And while all art is - by its very nature – at least somewhat reflexively descriptive of the individual maker, what is far more exciting is trying to externalize the intimate and the hidden of not just the artist, but of others as well.
Recently this approach has shifted towards the incorporation of more abstract elements and less reliance on static reference materials, undergirded by a larger technical investigation into color and more intuitive mark making as seen through the prism of using figures from pop culture and friends as models.
This is part of a lifelong process of trying to describe the internal state, the vibrant impressions and forces – whether for better or worse – that rule us, that govern our perception of ourselves and outward expression. And while all art is - by its very nature – at least somewhat reflexively descriptive of the individual maker, what is far more exciting is trying to externalize the intimate and the hidden of not just the artist, but of others as well.
Education
|
2011 - 2013
2000 - 2004 |
UC Berkeley, Bachelor of Arts, Art Practice, CA
School of the Arts, Art Magnet High School, San Francisco, CA |
Exhibitions
|
2021
2020 2019 2018 2013 2012 2008 2001 |
"Phoria", solo exhibition at Vanitas Contemporary, San Francisco, CA
"Last We Heard", solo exhibition at Art Attack SF, San Francisco, CA Superfine! Art Fair, Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA "Make Your Mark", Art Attack SF, San Francisco, CA "Oakland Art Library", Oakland Art Library, Oakland, CA "Chocolate and Art", SOMArts, San Francisco, CA "Fulton House Opening", Fulton House, San Francisco, CA "Nothing Gold", Live Worms Gallery, San Francisco, CA "Chocolate and Art" , SOMArts, San Francisco "Pancakes and Booze Art Show", Mezzanine, San Francisco, CA "Uncovered Territories", Worth Ryder Gallery, UC Berkeley, CA "Fiat Lux Redux" , Worth Ryder Gallery, UC Berkeley, CA "Up and Coming", College of San Mateo, CA "Young Artists Exhibition", Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, San Francisco, CA |
Honors & Awards
|
2013
2013 2013 2013 |
Graduated with Honors - Summa Cum Laude, UC Berkeley
Certificate of Distinction in Painting Honors Program - Department Award of Studio Space and Exhibition, UC Berkeley The Phelan Undergraduate Scholarship - a faculty selected financial award presented annually to students based on merit, UC Berkeley |