Opening Reception: Saxon Martinez
Category: Event Calendar
Date and Time
- Friday, Sep 12, 2025 6pm - 8pm
Location
Firehouse Art Center
667 4th Ave
Details
Firehouse Art Center's 2025 Summer Artist in Residence: Saxon Martinez
Saxon Martinez’s work is about the investigation and exploration of the brown body by way of the piñata motif. Martinez is a sculptor who makes objects that resemble American piñatas, however his work deviates from the conventional forms of these objects by creating anthropomorphic forms that embody 3-D self-portraits.
“I want to share my lived experiences through the forms I create. I want to share the importance of these objects and their history within my culture. Growing up, the piñata became a herald of celebration and as the years passed, it has now taken on a new meaning. It marks a moment of
transition in my life which has shaped my identity. These sculptures embody ambiguous forms that are adorned with the piñata motif. The ambiguity of the form is an acknowledgment of my shared experience within the Latinx community.”
Martinez’s sculptures are created using cardboard, wood, tissue paper, and mulberry paper. Their creation is a convergence of years of construction experience, memories and conversation between Martinez and the materials. Each sculpture is created in the moment to express their ephemeral attributes, never to be created again. Martinez views his process similar to his lived experience, ones that he wishes to share with the viewer.
