My name is Grace Martin. (took out and) I am a Senior enrolled in AP Studio Art: 2D Design at Pacific Grove High School. In creating artwork, I aim to explore and translate my own visions into artwork, introducing my ideas into a 2-dimensional reality. Throughout my artistic journey I have utilized stories from the people I value in my life, to develop compositions overflowing with meaning. In my adolescence I was surrounded by an abundance of flowers in my grandmother’s Irish garden, fueling my artistic style and creative spirit.

In creating art, I enjoy working with a variety of mediums, including acrylic paint and colored pencil. I express my feelings utilizing different techniques and materials to best illustrate the subject matter. In discovering my artistic preferences, I noticed the practicality of colored pencils in creating detailed designs, making it my ideal choice of media. However, when working on larger projects, I enjoy painting and collage, using the scale of the material to best suit the subject. Throughout my personal artistic journey, I gravitate towards themes of nostalgia, and explore moments that display the wonder and creativity of my childhood.

 The piece I have created, “Ballinamore”, translates fond memories of spending time with my Nana in Ireland, walking through the farmlands of her small town and admiring its beautiful scenery. Utilizing Prismacolor colored pencils and the layering of color to create texture, I emphasized the appearance of various items, ranging from the smooth skin of the cows, soft green rolling hills, and the luscious trees of the landscape. The composition includes green hills, tree foliage, and grazing cows strategically placed to highlight elements of space showing the perspective of the composition. The color palette of this piece is soft, creating a hazy feeling that resembles the thoughts and spirit of my upbringing.