Delita Martin: Harnessing the Power of Printmaking - A Journey into Art Collecting
Delita Martin: Harnessing the Power of Printmaking - A Journey into Art Collecting
In the vast ocean of creative expression, Delita Martin stands as a lighthouse, casting her unique vision across the waves of printmaking. She's not just an artist; she’s a collector in her own right — curating a collection not only of art but of cultural narrative, memory, and story. Her insights into the artistry of amassing fine pieces open windows to a world that's both philosophical and practical, intriguing and instructive. Because “Artfully Living” is her thing, after all.
Delita recounts her journey into the world of art collecting, "The first piece of work I purchased were two prints by Cuban artist Eduardo Roca Salazar ‘Chocolate’. The works were purchased from the artist at his studio in Cuba.” This seminal moment was not merely an acquisition, but the first step on a path that would see her build a collection that goes beyond mere aesthetics, embodying the rich tapestry of human experience.
An artist herself, Delita notes that her collection is primarily composed of fine art prints, "My Collection is built around fine art prints but there are some exceptions.” This collection is carefully curated to reflect her own identity and tastes while also telling a wider story about the world around us.
Delita anticipates that her collection will inspire dialogue, particularly around the diversity and innovation in printmaking, "I hope that my collection speaks proudly about the innovations in the world of printmaking particularly as it relates to artists of color.” Each piece in her collection is a storyteller, reflecting the voices of the artists and their unique narratives.
When asked about her favorite piece, her response embodies the ever-evolving nature of a collector, “I claim them all as my favorite. It changes every day.” Delita's collection is more than an assortment of chosen pieces; it's a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve with her.
Delita's most memorable acquisition is a piece that marries both art and literature, “My most memorable acquisition is a handmade/letterpress, illustrations by Dr. John T. Biggers and words by Dr. Maya Angelou.” To Delita, each artwork acquired doesn't just enhance her collection but also contributes to preserving the rich legacy of extraordinary artists.
The art of collecting, according to Delita Martin, is not just about possessing art, but about participating in a timeless dialogue between artists and their audience. Her collection, while capturing her unique aesthetic sensibilities, also serves as a symphony of voices from the world of art, inviting us all to join the conversation.
In the world of art collecting, Delita Martin's approach is a shining example of how a collection can resonate beyond the frames of the works. They serve to illuminate the passions, stories, and heritage of the artists while creating a bridge to the audience, encouraging us all to not just observe, but to engage with the world of the art and artist.
If you would like to dive deeper into Delita’s collecting journey and her own art practice, please enjoy this two-part episode of her interview on Arts Explanatory Comma Podcast.
