Ashley Martinez
Drawing
Artist Statement
In this series, I explore the relationship between traditional drawing and alternative photography to portray the psychological and physical challenges I experienced during COVID. The photographic process of cyanotypes simulates the experience of diving into uncertainty. Utilizing nature as subject matter for cyanotypes expresses my desire for the strength and transparency of the natural world while the drawn images of my body expose a layer of intimacy and vulnerability. My art practice reveals my sensitive and fragile affairs as a human being along with my evolving movement for healing and growth.
My work is a letter of embrace and forgiveness to myself.
Unravel Me, 2021, Mixed Media, 18”x19 ½”
Let’s Try Again, 2021, Mixed Media, 24”x30”
In One Ear, 2021, Mixed Media, 12”x16”
Out The Other, 2021, Mixed Media, 12”x16”
Moving Forward, 2021, Mixed Media, 12½”x16”
Here We Go, 2021, Mixed Media, 14½”x16”
In The Midst, 2021, Mixed Media, 21”x38”
Artist Bio
Ashley Martinez is a first-generation, Hispanic artist born in Everett, Washington and raised in Rockford, Illinois. She received an Associate’s Degree in Arts at Rock Valley College in 2019 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts with an emphasis in Drawing at Northern Illinois University in 2021. She intends to pursue a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts in the near future.
Her area of focus is portraiture and realism while also revealing human experiences to convey innermost emotions. The awareness to detail and near perspectives portrayed in her work embrace the hidden layers that exist within individuals, including herself.