The HangART-7 exhibition “Una Excursión Mexicana” in Salzburg’s Hangar-7, running until August 28, is a show of works by seven young, very individual Mexican artists. Answering questionnaires, they each describe their approach to art – and share some inside information along the way. Part Six: Eugenia Martínez.
The epoch that followed Mexico’s war for independence from Spain – the “Viceroyalty of New Spain” – is the main focus of Eugenia Martínez’s work. More specifically, the artist borrows icons from this period, which she critically explores in light of the relevant social and political problems of yesterday and today. Surrounding the protagonists in the paintings are socially critical texts that are reminiscent of halos. Martínez talks about colonial times, what influenced her country, and how she uses fruit.How much connects you to the six other artists in this exhibition? And how much separates you?
This exhibition has given me the opportunity to network with the other artists. Each one contributes a different and unique part of Mexico. It’s very interesting to live with other artists and their work and through that to see the multifaceted sides of the country.
What makes your art “typically Mexican?” Why couldn’t it have been created in any other country?
My work has a very Mexican identity because it incorporates images, icons and objects from colonial times. These elements were part of the identity of my country and at the same time they influenced the way we saw “the others.” I think it’s difficult when you think of Mexico not to take into account the major disparities that dominate.
Please give us three words that describe your work process.
Colonial icons. Validity. Humor.
... and three that describe your artworks.
Obsessive. Words. Naivety in the way I paint.
What do you feel when people observe your work and you think it affects them – no matter how?
I like creating a work that finds connection to others. And in the end, each object, person and shadow takes on a different, unique meaning. Different to how it was conceived.
Could you share with us a very personal anecdote about one of the pieces exhibited in Hangar-7 – or give us some sort of insider information about it that only you have been privy to until now?
In “Juanita” I researched the names of various fruits because I didn’t know them in the colonial paintings and have never seen them in the supermarket. At the opening of this exhibition people were asking me what the fruits were called and I had to tell them that, despite extensive research, I hadn’t found their names. It’s great that people from Austria are so interested in art, and to see how curious they are about the artists; they approach us, get to know us and ask questions.
Eugenia Martínez
Eugenia Martínez
Eugenia Martínez