Today we’d like to introduce you to Martin Balsam.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I began my career in art about three years ago, but a year ago, I was drawn to becoming something bigger than myself. I don’t have anyone helping me, but I’ve always been skilled at bringing people together. I have a keen eye on what looks good to people. My experience with being homeless really opened my eyes when it came to finding my style for creating and expressing that emotion to relate to others. I always say “Art is more than painting on a canvas, It’s more about creating the journey”, and so far, my ambition makes me more of an artist than simply just drawing or painting. I didn’t go to college to become an artist, because my only hobby is art. If it’s not art related, I don’t want anything to do with it. I have to create art every day, I say that keeps me going. “Nobody Support Art”, they say. But I do.
I’ve been promoting “Nobody Support Art” since August 2018. And I can personally say that “Nobody Support Art” is very successful and it hasn’t even been a year yet. It has over 800 followers on Facebook and over 4000 followers on Instagram which is still growing by the day. I would also say “Nobody Support Art” helped give me something else to create and build other than just drawing or painting. I’m a creator when it comes to “Nobody Support Art”, haha. I’m creating and exploring ads, photography, webpage design, email design, etc. all for this project. I just can’t quit, I’m too passionate as an artist, as a creator.
I am representing those who need support and encouragement to continue to create their art. A lot of people are scared to believe in themselves; I want to help change that.
I want to create everything…
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been as smooth as it can be. It’s been much dedication and many emotions I had to go through. I know that I’m still great despite my mistakes. The homelessness really helped me grow as an artist.
One main struggle that is people will “never” truly understand the purpose or the meaning behind Nobody Support Art. A lot of artists go broke just by being an artist. Who would’ve thought that the smallest art supplies could cost a grip? A single piece of high–quality paint costs more than a dollar, and it’s not even from a premium brand!
But it’s not just about art supplies, it’s more about having support for doing what you do. Having the tools to continue to create is different for everyone, either that’s an inspiration, motivation, nice environment, or people around them. “Art supplies” is what an artist feels that they need to continue.
Please tell us more about your artwork, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I created “Nobody Support Art” to influence those who want to become and/or continue as an artist. The mission is to give support and encouragement to those following our purpose of creating all art (Drawing, Sculpture, Painting, Literature, Music, Performing, and Film) and that’s just to name a few!
I’m an artist, photographer, graphic designer, webpage designer, tattoo artist, musician, chalk artist, barber, and that’s just to name a few!
What sets me apart from everyone is probably my positive perspective and initiative. I have learned a lot from the people before me and I know what problems are going to arise and can prevent them from happening — saving myself time and energy to work on higher-value tasks.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I define success in one way only. Living life with no excuses; meeting the goals set by my past setbacks and then challenging those comebacks. The proudest moment in my career so far is this “I’m getting better”. I would’ve never known that failure could make you better if you think positive. I will never quit, that’s the only way to go. I will keep staying positive and figuring out ways to keep growing.
Pricing:
- Free Sticker With T-Shirt Purchase [$35]
- 1 Hour Photoshoot [$75]
- Logo Design [$60]
Contact Info:
- Website: www.needmoney4artsupplies.myportfolio.com
- Phone: 5016874607
- Email: martinbalsamart@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/martin_balsam
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/needmoney4artsupplies
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/martin_balsam
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