A Bubble in Time Alberto Martinez 

A Bubble in Time Alberto Martinez

“When an artwork of mine takes about two months from start to finish, that piece is more than oil colours on a piece of fabric. There’s an intimacy built after weeks of just the two of us. Nights, days together. It witnesses all sort of happenstance going on with me and around me. Like a good friend, it talks back as well. It challenges me. Comforts me. Care’s for me…

I’m grateful to you for been my companion all this weeks, dear friend. It’s time for you to meet the world and make friends of your own. Hope to see you again in this life…”

Alberto Martinez (El Flaco)

A Bubble in Time

The sudden appearance of COVID 19 took the world by surprise. Different countries, and even differing parts of the same countries, took diverse approaches; however, lockdown was a theme with most. We were put in a position where we had to live in a kind of bubble; for some of us our own bubble. I was one of those. It gave me time to just stop with what was “normal” life. It made me create a bubble where I was in a state of peace, reflecting on my life, and what I have been doing with it. Outside of my bubble, I could see how nature started to take over in many parts of the world. Venice waters got clearer, birds and all sorts of insects and wildlife had time to “breathe”. That’s the metaphor of this piece. For a few months we were all more in balance with the natural world around us; life turned even more beautiful from both inside and outside of ourselves. I hope this image can make us reflect on what happened, and how we can be better in the future…

Alberto Martinez

Life and Inspiration

Alberto Martinez was born in a small Cuban village in 1977, where he first explored art amidst sugar cane plantations. His early sketches featured steam engines pulling cane trucks. Encouraged by family and friends, Alberto pursued his passion, leading to a place at the Fine Arts Academy, ‘Oscar Fernandez Morera’, in Trinidad. Initially focusing on sculpture, he later shifted to painting, incorporating his sculptural understanding of shapes and space.

Artistic Journey

After graduation, Alberto exhibited his work across Cuba. He moved to Brighton, England, in 2005, where he continues to live and create. Known for his vibrant sense of humour, inherited from his father, Alberto often develops ideas during the small hours, exploring modern life through surreal landscapes and cityscapes.

Style and Themes

Alberto’s art is a surreal blend of wit, imagination, and nuance. He distorts reality to support fascinating narratives, reflecting history and political science observations. His unique style features vivid colours, incredible detail, and intriguing elements that challenge conventional views.

Inspiration and Storytelling

Drawing inspiration from his move to England, Alberto crafts intricate stories that captivate and provoke thought. His work transforms ordinary scenes into narratives filled with hidden meanings, inviting viewers to explore fresh perspectives on the world. His art remains a testament to his creativity and insightful exploration of global society.

CLICK HERE to see a video – Alberto Martinez on what it means to be an artist

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