LEIGH MARTIN
b. 1964, New ZealandLeigh Martin (Te Ati Haunui a Paparangi, Uenuku) is a New Zealand based painter who lives and works between Auckland, New Zealand and Karlsruhe, Germany. As an artist who works with self prescribed rhythmic frameworks to draw out the minutiae of painterly effects, Martin overlays his practice with research in the mechanics of sound. Using controlled, repetitive motions to pull paint across the paintings’ surfaces, Martin works to catch the impression of silken weaving that emerges through the relationship between the two mediums. Levelling the artist’s intervention to an even partnership between human actor and material elements, the residual sense of motion implied by Martin’s deep gestural palette rests in the surface of each work with a subtle vibrancy.
Martin studied for his Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Glasgow School of Fine Art, Scotland from 1991 until 1993 where he received the Christies Prize, the Armour Prize and the Cargill Scholarship before returning to complete a Master of Fine Arts (first class honours) at Auckland University of Technology in 2013. Martin has lectured in painting at Elam, School of Fine Arts University of Auckland, AUT and Unitec. He exhibits throughout New Zealand and internationally and his work is held in significant public and private collections including Christchurch Art Gallery, Auckland Art Gallery and the Wallace Arts Trust Collection.
Courtesy Two Rooms
Works at Two Rooms
Recently Exhibited
Explore and Follow Artists Shaping Contemporary Art
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services