Martin Slater

Artist statement:

My work has centered on the human figure, mainly with charcoal and three color chalk. I try to stay faithful to the form and to reveal structure under the surface. Recent work has been more narrative and includes attempts to capture mood and emotion. In addition to figurative work, I have done commissioned drawings of horses, horse and rider and portraits.

Inspired by the work of various figurative artists, especially Pierre-Paul Prud’hon, I have come to realize the natural interest we have in the figure. Initially, I believe, the artist needs only make us stop and look.

I attempt to capture attention by draftsmanship and a warm sensual style. Figures are displayed in a variety of standing, seated and reclining poses, and a wide range of moods; anticipation of the future or reference to the past, awake, dreaming, isolation, worry or peaceful. Each of the drawings has a story to tell. In some cases narrative is hinted at by composition, while in others the stories are left to the imagination and experiences of the viewer.