Warring Factions opens at Florence’s Gately Gallery

Downtown Florence’s Steven F. Gately Gallery hosted a vibrant artist reception for Mar Martinez and celebrated the winners of the Florence Regional Arts Alliance’s Small Works competition on Aug. 13. Martinez’s exhibit titled “Warring Factions” is being showcased in conjunction with the small works exhibition, which she had the satisfaction of curating.

Martinez described her works as distinct chapters of a larger narrative, threaded together by an intrinsic tension. Her work goes beyond ordinary paintings- they are cut out of wood and intentionally stand out from the walls. Whether it’s animals encircling each other, textiles under tension, or human figures – her art presents an intriguing interplay of tension, conflict, and body language.

Creating Conflict

The standoff between two antlered deer, the whirlpool of dogs chasing each other, the ruffled rugs on the floor – all exhibit a unique sense of conflict. Martinez’s work is about showing power dynamics: how power can be given and taken away. The context in which the art is viewed can change this dynamic.

Crafting the Artwork

Crafting these unique pieces requires patience and precision. With the aid of simple tools like a jigsaw and two sawhorses, Martinez carves intricate details into a half-inch plywood – a challenging but fulfilling task. The cutting process represents immediacy, contrasting the refined detail that the painting brings to these wooden pieces.

Extending Beyond the Canvas

According to Martinez, the decision to expand her art beyond the canvas was driven by her desire to break free from its limitations. Her pieces are designed to invade the viewer’s space – some are built in a way that they physically extend off the wall. Two rug paintings are even displayed on the floor, further defying the conventional display norms.

Interwoven Inspirations

Martinez, who hails from a Cuban-Syrian backdrop, has expressed an interest in Syrian weaving, a skill she plans to further develop in Istanbul as part of her Fulbright scholarship. Appreciating the intricate artistry in the rugs and traditional clothing from the Turkish and Syrian border, she becomes fascinated by how single threads can weave together to create enduring textiles.

Art and Awards

Besides the eye-capturing display of her art, Martinez also assumed the responsibility of judging the 2024 Small Works Juried Exhibition. Julie Mixon of Florence bagged the first-place honors for her work, “Two Fold Flood”, while Brittany Gilbert and Doug Gray of Florence seized second and third positions respectively for their works “Lichen Day/Night I” and “An Echo Of Belonging.” Aldo Muzzarelli from Mauldin received an honorable mention for his work, “Prejudices.”

Both exhibits are on display at the Gately Gallery, located at 142 North Dargan Street in Florence, until October 3.