That quote by Ernest Hemingway is what Sally Martin uses to describe her life as an equine artist. Simple, concise, to the point. In some ways you could even describe Sally’s art that way, too. Simple strokes of a paint brush that nurture a unique story into an extraordinary work of art. It always amazes me how artists can, each in their own way, create their own unique art style, showing the world their own take on their subject. That’s the beauty of life–when it seems all of the ideas in the world have been used up, someone comes along and trailblazes a new style. Just ask Sally Martin, a prolific artist who has been in over 15 exhibits since the early 2000s. But, success is not always awards or recognition. Sometimes it the late nights at the studio, adding the final touches to a piece. Or seeing the joy that floods a clients face when they see that painting of their beloved horse for the first time. Sometimes it’s moments like these that mean more to an artist than any award ever could.

Sally Martin

Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex, England

Website, Facebook

TFS: Would you tell us more about your style?

SM: I would describe my style as impressionistic, I am seeking to create work that conveys the feeling of light and movement and captures moments that resonate with all who have an interest in horses.
My interest is not in photo realistic art although I can admire the technical ability involved, I am more for the artists who make room for chance and serendipity, something that can happen in the moment of painting.

TFS: Any upcoming art shows/exhibits?

SM: My work will be on show at Wing Gallery , Wadhurst , UK in September
TFS: Where can people go to see your art?

SM: I am represented by a number of galleries throughout the UK:

Wing Gallery
Equestrian Art UK 
The Hunter Gallery 
The Barefoot Gallery 
John Noott Broadway Modern Gallery 

 

Can you tell me more about your “100 Small Paintings”?

SM: Before this project I used to always work medium to large scale. Sometimes it is good to break out of your usual work patterns so I challenged myself to work really small, which for me was mostly 8×6 inch panels, then to really push myself I said I would create a small painting a day for 100 days, I offered these works for sale at a special rate and made a blog about it. It turned out to be a project that really connected with people.

Are there any artists/people that inspire you with your art, or that you admire?

SM: Degas immediately comes to mind for his beautiful drawing, exquisite colour and daring composition. Munnings for the juiciest paint strokes and total mastery of all elements of painting. Jenny Saville and Grayson Perry are contemporary artists that I particularly admire for their beautiful drawing talent and risk taking in their subject matter.

TFS: Any wise words for other artists?
SM: Get your head down and make lots of work, each painting informs the next.
Be dedicated and tenacious.

TFS: Is there something that you would like to paint but haven’t?
SM: The coastal scenes that surround me here on the south coast of the UK.
TFS: What are the ways you find most useful for promoting your art?
SM: When I started out I found that setting up a trade stand at equestrian events was a good way to connect with people. Now I work more with galleries that represent me but I still find my FB page and website are great ways to promote my work.

TFS: Is there a medium that you have not worked in but would like to?
SM: I would love to sculpt in clay.

TFS: Do you give any workshops/classes?

SM: Not at the moment, maybe in the future.

Thank you for answering my questions, Sally! I can’t wait to see what spectacular project you are working on next!