Cristina Martinez

Cristina Martinez is an artist from Tacoma, WA–based in Seattle. Though her formal foray into the art world was in fashion illustration, she was inevitably driven to more expensive forms of self-expression, self-exploration, and articulations of self-love through painting – from thought-provoking self-portraits to boundless abstract pieces. 

Beginning her prolific journey as an artistically inclined child in Tacoma, WA, her creative expression from a young age was rooted in the richness of her Black and Mexican heritage.

The progeny of the strong women of her bloodline, her inheritance of feminine power, resilience, and sisterhood are exhibited in much of her art. Somewhat ironically, it was her most deeply persona heartbreak and vulnerabilities that birthed her collection with the broadest appeal – the “Water Me” series.

These viral works can be found hung on gallery walls, stitched into garments across the globe, and permanently inked on a growing number of bodies. This recurring theme, in her art, of finding beauty in the unexpected, often at the lowest depths, is an idea she lives and encourages in others. 

What motivates her to be an entrepreneur as a mother is her constant drive to keep her identity as a creative while pushing herself to be the best mom that she can be. For her, committing to her art full-time is not just a dream, but allows her the freedom to be a great mom and a great artist simultaneously.