Today we’d like to introduce you to Devan Martin.
Hi Devan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was always a big doodler growing up, but I didn’t take a single art class in school until I went to college on a swimming scholarship & decided to major in graphic design. It wasn’t until after college that I had the freedom to spend hours on end in the studio. I started creating with anything and everything I could find. It took a good three years to feel like I had developed a style and another couple of years to feel comfortable getting my art out into the world. Since about 2018 I have been putting my art out there and the reception of it has been great! Nowadays you can find me vending at events, live painting, and taking on commission work for peoples’ homes! I feel like I am just now hitting a stride with all I am doing, and I am looking forward to what is yet to come!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I don’t think the road is “smooth” for any artist, it’s very non-linear and I’ve had to learn how to adapt and adjust when life changes. The challenges along the way have been how often that road makes unexpected turns or has large hills to get over, but those are the spots where I often find the most unexpected inspiration as well. It’s been an obstacle to stay true to who I am as an artist because it is so easy nowadays to compare what you are doing to someone else. It all has taught me to just keep creating, regardless of circumstances or surroundings. What makes this road so rewarding is that the perspective I gain from throwing myself into my work always eases the burdens and enhances the sweetness of life.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an abstract artist, mostly known for my use of color and amount of detail. I paint with acrylics, but I do not limit myself to any mediums when I’m in the studio- if something is calling for me, I’ll go to it. I have a careful hand and love to do very detailed line-work, so most of my pieces end up being a blend of flowy, bright colors that are overlaid with fine lines and shapes. My work varies, though, and I think that is what sets me apart from some of the other art that is out there. I pride myself in my ability to be precise, even though I freehand everything. It’s always really fun to tell people I didn’t use any sort of straight edge in some of the pieces I’ve made. Lately, live painting has been a big part of my life and I hope to start doing more live painting at events in the future.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
So many people deserve credit in my success. First, my husband, who was the person to get me out of my introvert-comfort zone to start seeing my art as a business, not just a hobby. My family and friends have always provided me with encouragement and support to go out there and chase my dreams. My college professor, Tennille Shuster, helped me so much in college by going into detail with every assignment and giving me a good idea of what my career in the arts might look like down the road. My business partner, Olivia DiMauro, who was my inspiration to start showcasing my work in markets, and who I am now going to be hosting my first event with on July 16th, 2022! We started The Cosmic Roots Collective earlier this year, and we have big things in the works. Be sure to follow along with our journey on Instagram!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.creativelyflowing.com
- Instagram: @creativelyflowing
- Facebook: @creativelyflowing
