Marti Somer’s whimsical and allegorical paintings are seemingly brimming with simplicity.A closer look reveals layers and layers – not just of paint and mixed media, but of connections, coincidences and contradictions.She’s drawn to objects that exhibit signs of wear and tear – in fact, the rustier and crustier the better.She’s also drawn to many of nature’s creatures and creations, especially birds; bark; and other bits and pieces that surround us on a daily basis.As an artist, Marti is piqued by the “fragility of nature juxtaposed again modern life” – and it’s that paradox that gives her work such depth.
As an artist-storyteller, Somers’ paintings are richly steeped in hidden meanings.She cares deeply for the environment and uses her work to champion a search for peace and beauty.Her work allows her to search for “the human form in balance with others, and, in the face of an often foreboding sky, abundant hope.”
After earning a degree in Fine Arts from the University of Hawaii, Marti honed her skill through years of graphic design and illustration. But, as she says, it was painting that ultimately brought a sense of purpose to her life and she has been painting full-time since 2001.
She has exhibited in a number of galleries, primarily on the West Coast. We’re delighted to have her work with us here in Atlanta.
