


César A. Martínez American, b. 1944
Guadalupe G., 2012
Acrylic on muslin
28 x 28 in
71.1 x 71.1 cm
71.1 x 71.1 cm
Further images
Martínez’s vivid portraits explore the abstract field of color inspired by the works of Mark Rothko, Jules Olitski, and Kenneth Noland. The characters are rarely depicted in “natural” skin color,...
Martínez’s vivid portraits explore the abstract field of color inspired by the works of Mark Rothko, Jules Olitski, and Kenneth Noland. The characters are rarely depicted in “natural” skin color, a theme that Martínez explores in works like Guadalupe G. and Simon Novoa, using color and sharp horizon lines to enhance the mood of the abstract landscape. The artist states, “This is my way of addressing discrimination of that sort and thus neutralizing it.” Many of Martínez’s portrayals of women are inspired by period styles from the 1930s and ’40s, which can be seen in Guadalupe’s voluptuous pompadour hair and bold red lipstick, which alongside her blouse, presents a warm contrast against the bright aquamarine backdrop.
Exhibitions
Cesar A. Martinez: Smoke and Mirrors, Ruiz-Healy Art, San Antonio, TX, 2024 (catalogue)Literature
César A. Martínez: Smoke and Mirrors, Ruiz-Healy Art, San Antonio, TX, 2024 (illustrated)Romo, Ricardo. “César Martinez’s Retrospective Show: A Tribute To A Maestro Of Chicano Art,” Substack, November 6, 2024. (illustrated)