Ginger Martinez

Most of us were never taught how to buy art. We were taught how to match a sofa to a rug, how to measure for curtains and how to pick a paint color. But nobody handed us a guide for standing in front of a painting and trusting what we feel. Thus, we opt for safety. We select what harmonizes with everything, choosing items that won't upset anyone who enters. We choose things that won't offend anyone. Then, we question why our walls appear dull and uninteresting, lacking impact and emotion....

Recently, it's been challenging for me to work on large paintings due to the move and everything else going on. So, for now, I'm using what I have to create small abstract pieces simply because I feel the need to paint. This process has been incredibly helpful for expressing my emotions, and it comes without the pressure of needing to sell too much. These studies represent my plans for when I begin painting on a larger scale again. I'm returning to what feels authentic to me—the emotional...

Going full-time wasn't an option for me just yet. I was working my regular job, which helped me cover the bills and other expenses. However, things took a turn for the worse, and I had to decide to leave this job sooner than I had planned. It was the first time I left a job on bad terms. It was difficult for me to stand up for myself and others, even when I was told I was wrong and lost friends in the process. That was a very healing moment for me. Here I am, without money and no current...