Caution

Martiros uses these various elements to create a multi-dimensional
and multi-textual effect that adds a sense of motion and energy to his pieces.
Martiros paints figurative portraits in the manner of artists like Peter Paul
Rubens and chiaroscuro artist Caravaggio. Martiros places them into a new
context by incorporating contemporary urban art visuals like yellow caution
tape and compositional elements from graffiti art. This unique combination
of aesthetics, classical portraiture along with street art influence, is intended
to fuse together the old and the new by connecting two distinct styles of
art. The juxtaposition in his pieces between traditional subject matter and
contemporary elements, seeks to question authority by giving historical
figures of power new context. The spontaneous use of color and application
simultaneously gives the work an irreverent attitude yet a deep appreciation
towards the tradition of the old masters.
Martiros’ process begins by what he refers to as “digging,” which is his
process of collecting digital and print images that inspire him. Martiros
spends long periods of time looking through images from 16th and 17th
century paintings as well as the decorative arts of the time. Those elements
are seen in his painting “Bluebird”. Bluebird is a portrait of a girl, inspired by
“Las Meninas” by Diego Velazquez. The textile like patterning throughout the
painting reflects Russian tapestries from the 16th century.
Martiros Adalian graduated from Terlemezian Art College of Yerevan,
Armenia, and moved to the U.S. in 1990. Martiros has exhibited in numerous
solo and group exhibitions throughout the U.S., Europe, and Russia.