Michael Martins
Michael Martins was born and raised in Brampton, Ontario. He received his BFA from Queen’s University in 2023 and his B.Ed from Queen’s University in 2024. As an aspiring artist and educator, Michael takes inspiration from portrait artists across North America such as Dan Hughes, Mark Tennant and Gian Galang. He currently resides in Kingston, ON
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
Michael’s work is rooted in personal experiences and ideas of youth culture. His work focuses on capturing the spontaneous moments and energy of flash photography. So much of modern photography are quick snapshots of daily life and moments. These snapshots are less concerned with capturing the subject matter as they are the essence of the moment. When translating these “throwaway” photos into paintings, it transforms there energy, especially for those involved in the photo. Michael works only from photo references he or the people near him have taken.
Michael Martins was born and raised in Brampton, Ontario. He received his BFA from Queen’s University in 2023 and his B.Ed from Queen’s University in 2024. As an aspiring artist and educator, Michael takes inspiration from portrait artists across North America such as Dan Hughes, Mark Tennant and Gian Galang. He currently resides in Kingston, ON
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
Michael’s work is rooted in personal experiences and ideas of youth culture. His work focuses on capturing the spontaneous moments and energy of flash photography. So much of modern photography are quick snapshots of daily life and moments. These snapshots are less concerned with capturing the subject matter as they are the essence of the moment. When translating these “throwaway” photos into paintings, it transforms there energy, especially for those involved in the photo. Michael works only from photo references he or the people near him have taken.
$1,499.99
Oil on canvas.
60x48"
Backstage represents the preparing moments for a big moment. Whether its a night out, a sports match, an interview, or in the case of the image, a live musical performance. We all experience the anxiety, doubt, excitement and anticipation whenever we have a backstage moment.
$1,499.99
Oil on canvas.
60x48"
Onstage is representative of how framing and high flash photography elevates any moment to one of high drama. Just a group of friends standing on a sign at night gets changed into the feeling of a rock band photoshoot. It also emphasizes a youthful recklessness, as they are out late at night enjoying themselves, but the ominous darkness looms over them.
$499.99
Acrylic on canvas.
16x20"
Over The Top depicts teenage mischief and skateboard culture, one that I wrapped myself in for most of my pre-teen years. This photo was taken during an adventure finding a spot. It showcases the invincibility complex that post youth have, not being afraid of the consequences for their actions.
$499.99
Acrylic on canvas.
16x20"
Rest captures the blissful serenity of a summer by the lake. A positive moment that is relatable to most Canadians
$499.99
Acrylic on canvas.
20x16"
Smile 1 is a spontaneous moment captured during aa party. Truth be told I cannot remember the photo being taken, however, I met the person who took the photo months later and she gave it to me. Turning it into a painting felt like a great way to honour the moment.
$999.99
Oil on canvas.
36x48"
Buddies I is an about the preparation for a night out. Joyful faces juxtaposed by an eerie vignetted background. Their eyes are closed to show a teenage innocence which emphasizes youthful ignorance and the blind confidence to just enjoy any night carefree and invincible.
$1,499.99
Oil on canvas.
60x48"
Buddies II is a depiction of a joyful evening with friends. It is a massive part of building everlasting bonds with the people you love. The dark scenes and bright faces emphasize their presence in the moment.
$999.99
Oil on canvas.
36x48"
Rockstars II explores the idea of “15 minutes of fame” that everyone gets to experience in their life. For the short period of time my buddy was hoisted into the air he became the king of the street party, riding on top of the crowds. A moment that he will remember forever as king of the crowd but also a moment that was fleeting. The piece also explores the deification of youth through framing, as the perspective of the photograph makes him seem larger than life, king of the world.
$999.99
Oil on canvas.
36x48"
Rockstars III is symbolic of how framing can change the energy of any moment, even one as mundane such as exiting your car. The flashy lighting makes the melancholic sigh read as brash cockiness. Framing can turn any moment into a Rockstars entrance.