Eugene J. Martin: A Joyful Rediscovery at Galerie Zlotowski, Paris

Galerie Zlotowski presents the first monographic exhibition dedicated to the African-American painter Eugene J. Martin, taking place from 28 April to 30 June 2023. The exhibition is a testament to the gallery’s commitment to shedding light on 20th-century artistic figures and showcases a diverse range of Martin’s major works, including ink, bamboo calamus, and graphite pencil creations. For the first time in France, the exhibition also features acrylics on paper from the 1980s and 1990s.

Born in 1938 in Washington, D.C., Martin had a challenging childhood, facing racial segregation and personal struggles. Nevertheless, his unwavering passion for art led him to study at the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design and find inspiration in modern art figures like Picasso, Kandinsky, Klee, and Miró. After meeting his future wife, Suzanne Fredericq, in 1982, Martin found the stability and serenity to develop his unique artistic voice.

Eugene J. Martin Sans titre 1984 Technique mixte et collage sur papier 28 x 21,6 cm
Signé et daté en haut à gauche

Embracing “Satirical Abstraction,” Martin’s art was inspired by cubism and surrealism, while also reflecting his singular vision. His compositions are characterized by strange, biomorphic forms imbued with humour and freshness. The artist’s work was driven by his love for creation rather than commercial interests, resulting in a pure artistic integrity that persisted throughout his life.

The exhibition includes untitled works from the Oval Drawings series (1971-1974) and the Bamboo Drawings series, highlighting Martin’s impressive subtlety in colour and form. Additionally, the exhibition showcases collages from the 1980s and 1990s, marked by free, playful geometries and luminous assemblages. The acrylics on paper from the 1990s, also on display, demonstrate Martin’s mastery of construction, colour, and unpredictable apparitions.

Eugene J. Martin The Poor Image Toy 1991
Acrylique sur papier
74 x 54,4 cm
Signé et daté en bas à gauche © Estate of Eugene James Martin

Coinciding with the exhibition, Galerie Zlotowski and Les Éditions Martin de Halleux have collaborated to launch a new collection of books dedicated to modern art, the avant-gardes of the early 20th century, and artists of the second half of the 20th century. The first volume, dedicated to Eugene J. Martin, features over 50 of his works and includes a preface by Suzanne Fredericq.

Visit:
Galerie Zlotowski
20 rue de Seine
75006 Paris
Dates: 28 April to 30 June 2023

Eugene J. Martin Sans titre 1988 Technique mixte sur papier 40,5 x 28,5 cm 
Signé et daté en bas à droite © Estate of Eugene James Martin

Eugene J. Martin Sans titre 1989 Technique mixte sur papier 41,7 × 28,7 cm Signé et daté en bas vers la gauche © Estate of Eugene James Martin

Eugene J. Martin Sans titre 1981 Technique mixte et collage sur papier 27,9 × 20,5 cm Signé et daté en bas à gauche