Could you tell us a bit about your background as an illustrator?
Mart: « I graduated a year and a half ago from HKU as an illustrator. Since then I have been a full-time freelancer working for Trouw, De Correspondent, and NRC, among others. Because illustration is widely applicable, I also translate my work into other things, such as wine labels, interior accessories, and textiles. I also paint a lot and my focus is often on making carpets. »
How would you describe your work?
« I would describe my style as rhythmic, lively, narrative, and communicative. Every now and then I criticize certain things. Light-hearted, but serious. For inspiration, I like to dive into the world of tattoos, folk art, vinyl covers, tapestries, Bauhaus, stamps, thrift stores, you name it. Good work can be found everywhere! »
What is the story behind you expo?
« As a child, I used to collect stamps. At the time I steamed them apart from letters and gave them a place in a booklet, of which I had many. Now 20 years later I still have the same fascination. As an illustrator, my goal is to be able to design real stamps one day. The work is a process and a quest for my own style and authenticity, just like the search for that one perfectly designed stamp. The making process is a bridge between the little boy who collected stamps and the goal to one day be able to officially design stamps. This exhibition is hopefully a self-fulfilling prophecy. »
What do you hope to pass on to people who have seen this expo?
« Hopefully, one of the works because they are for sale! »
The expo can be viewed in Canvas until July 14. For more info check Mart’s website or his Instagram.
