Martínez’s bato and pachuco series are composed of various visual sources such as obituary pictures from the local papers, high school yearbook pictures, and the media. “Though based on real individuals, calculated liberties are taken with visual facts to “universalize” a character and make him so readily recognizable as to elicit an “I know him!” response from the viewer. Through this approach, I can explore a range of human attitudes within a somewhat clinical context and perhaps give a more accurate visual portrayal than what popular culture can provide. I know I am done with a particular piece when I sense that the character has taken on a life of its own.” says Martínez.