Today we’d like to introduce you to Martina Allen
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Hello! Thanks for taking a moment to learn more about me.
My name is Martina and I’ve been passionate about art from I was a child. At the age of 5 or 6, I remember making web pages and exploring design and coding.
Through creative school projects, I discovered a love for art. Since then, art has been a constant in my life, leading me to go to a magnet school for the arts and then graduating college with a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art. I do various commissioned works such drawings, paintings, logos, and business cards.
In 2017, I joined a pet company as a remote artist, painting about 100 pet portraits a month. Many clients discovered me through Facebook and my website, leading to additional commissions. Although I’m no longer with that company, I continue to enjoy creating art and bringing joy through my work, particularly with pet portraits that honor cherished animals who have passed.
Currently, pet portraits are a significant part of my work, but I also take on diverse projects. With my husband in the military, I’ve started customizing work hats, a niche that grew as his coworkers sought personalized items.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. Moving every few years has made it challenging to get my art supplies set up each time, which disrupts my creative process. Additionally, as an introverted artist, I find self-promotion difficult, which makes it hard to effectively advertise my work and connect with a wider audience.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in creating pet portraits, along with various other art forms. While I enjoy exploring different styles and mediums, pet portraits are where I find the most fulfillment. I’m proud of the ability to capture the unique personalities and expressions of each pet, which brings a special connection to my work. What sets me apart is my dedication to understanding the nuances of each animal’s character and translating that into my art, making each portrait a cherished and personal piece.
Any big plans?
For the future, I’m planning to expand my art practice by exploring new techniques and incorporating different mediums into my work. I’m also aiming to build a stronger online presence, connect with a broader audience, and address the challenges of being reserved.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://martinaallen.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinaswork
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/martinaallen.art