Under the Umbrella of Art

American industrial designer Lucas Martin discovered a passion for the arts at the age of 15 with great vigor. Taking inspiration from Charles and Ray Eames’ extensive collection of wonderfully executed progressive works, he desires to have each of his final products challenge the minds of those in the pieces’ presence. “I enjoy painting, drawing, and making things with my hands, and felt that if other people can do this for a living then, so can I,” he proclaims. In this development of an unapologetic love and drive to create the complex, the former Carnegie Mellon University student devotes his time to pushing the envelope. “I like to push people to think a little harder than they normal would. I try to make pieces that challenge preconceived notions, as I feel this is the only way to advance as people. Most of my work is tangible and three dimensional, so the connection between person and piece is very important to me,” explains Martin with conviction.

“My drive stems from a sort of obligation to question what is around us,” says Lucas Martin. However, even the most driven of artists reach a point where all creative juices temporarily dry up and threaten the outlet of expression indefinitely. When this mental block hits, some choose to work through it, while others have carefully determined the activities necessary to return to a heightened state of creativity. For Martin, a handful of distractions help him eventually redirect his focus back to what he loves most. “When I hit a creative roadblock I look at creative web blogs, watch a movie, or go the museum. Probably the best method of inspiration for me comes from conversations with my friends. Some of my best ideas come from long nights where we stay up talking about politics, philosophy, or history until [four in the morning]. We think we're solving the world's problems, but really we're just having a good time.”

Despite an air of motivation and confidence in the realm of thought-provoking art, Lucas Martin experiences a wave of uncertainty upon initial unveiling of his works before settling into a state of fulfillment much like any other artist throughout history. “First, I hope I did the best I could. Sometimes it's hard to tell when you're finished with a piece,” he admits. “Ideally, I want viewers to look at a piece I've finished and say to themselves [sic]: I've never felt something like this before. If I can inspire someone, or give them an opportunity to see something differently, then I'm satisfied.”

Photos courtesy of Lucas Martin
www.lucasallanmartin.com