Artist profile
Angus
Martin
Based in Sydney, Australia, Angus explores emotions through his paintings, blending colour, form, and symbolism to create stories that resonate with the human experience. His inspiration comes from music, lyrics, poems, and quotes, using these expressive mediums to ignite his internal vision and guide his brushstrokes. In his artwork, viewers find a mix of abstract shapes and figurative elements, conveying hidden messages and positive affirmations, as each piece holds its own unique meaning. He believes in the power of symbolism to encourage viewers to delve deeper, discovering personal meanings that connect with their own experiences.
Career Highlights
- South Australian Arts Excellence Award
- Exhibiting in New York, Hong Kong and Singapore
- Having my artwork featured on an album by one of my favourite musicians
Artist Interview
What medium do you work with, and why have you chosen them?
I love the immediacy of acrylics, the quick drying time allows me to get ideas out fast, as I often feel impatient to see my vision come to life. I enjoy using colour purposefully exploring the psychology behind each hue to deepen the message conveyed in every painting.
How does your artwork get from initial concept to exhibition stage?
My inspiration comes from song lyrics, quotes, and poems that resonate with me. Many of my works are titled after lyrics from songs that have profoundly influenced my life. I often imagine how these songs would manifest visually as drawings, translating their essence into a visual form. Music has the power to evoke vivid memories, and when I'm drawn to a specific lyric or melody, I'm transported to a particular time or place. While painting, I frequently listen to a song on repeat to hone in on that specific memory and strive to express those emotions through my drawing and painting.
Can you tell us a little more about your creative working environment/studio?
I paint from home, enjoying the solitude that lets me lose track of days and time… It's when I feel most authentically myself. I also treasure the time I spend with my little French Bulldog, Dolly. Although painting can be quite a solitary pursuit, I sometimes forget there’s a world outside my studio space! Dolly is full of energy and loves to explore, reminding me to take breaks for walks throughout the day, which refreshes my spirit and invigorates my creativity.
