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- Jul 8, 2023
- 3 min read

Ron Martin's Black Paintings

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SATURDAY EVENING POST

July 8th, 2023

“I’d like to feel I could make a painting that is primarily about the experience of the experiencer.”

- Ron Martin

Ron Martin, Guelph Trip - One & Two #17, Acrylic on canvas, 1975, 84 x 66 in.

Photo credit: Kyle Juron

Ronald Albert Martin was born in London, Ontario in 1943. He attended H.B. Beal Secondary School from 1960 to 1964. It was during this transformative period that Martin's path intersected with the renowned sculptor Murray Favro, as they shared a studio space, fostering a nurturing environment for their artistic endeavours.

However, it was Greg Curnoe who played a pivotal role in shaping Martin's artistic voice. Under Curnoe's guiding influence, Martin embarked on a quest to redefine the boundaries of painting, even in the face of assertions that the medium had met its demise in the late 1960s. Undeterred by such proclamations, Martin emerged as one of the most captivating and innovative artists of the subsequent decade. Setting himself apart from the prevailing Toronto abstract painting scene, Martin recognized the inherent authority wielded by artists over their viewers.

Detailed view of Ron Martin, Guelph Trip - One & Two #17

Photo credit: Kyle Juron

Martin's innovative approach extended beyond technique, as seen in his conceptual works such as the One-Colour Paintings. These works imposed deliberate constraints, with each canvas adhering to a standard size, containing a specific quantity of paint in a single color, and executed within a fixed time frame. Such deliberate parameters invited viewers to engage actively with the artwork. With a profound shift in perspective, he redirected the agency of the artist, channeling his creative energies towards the creation of art that primarily focused on the experience of the person encountering it. This philosophical departure marked a defining characteristic of Martin's oeuvre, empowering the viewer to become an active participant in the artistic encounter.

Martin's unwavering commitment to conceptual and process-driven abstraction sets him apart as a distinctive figure in the international history of abstract art. His profound exploration of the medium transcends conventional boundaries. Through his artistic endeavours, Martin challenges preconceived notions, provoking contemplation and evoking emotional responses that resonate within the hearts and minds of those fortunate enough to experience his creations.

Photo credit: Brian Pickell, from the Toronto Star Archives

Original Toronto Star caption: It's all there in black and white: Painter Ron Martin in front of his work; Union Of Opposites; which critic Hume judges the most compelling in Martin's latest exhibit at the Carmen Lamanna Gallery. The pieces are almost scientific in intent and appearance.

The impact of Ron Martin's artistic contributions resonated on both national and international levels. In 1978, his Black Paintings proudly represented Canada at the prestigious Venice Biennale, alongside Henry Saxe's sculptures. This pivotal moment catapulted his artistic career to new heights, capturing national recognition and acclaim. Over the years, Martin's work continued to be showcased in numerous exhibitions across Canada, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the Canadian art scene. In 2012, his profound contributions to the visual and media arts were honored with the esteemed Governor General's Award.

Photo credit: Reg Innell, from the Toronto Star Archives

As the pages of art history unfold, Ron Martin's contributions continue to leave an indelible mark on the artistic landscape. His unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and his profound belief in the power of the viewer's experience serve as a testament to his enduring legacy. With each brushstroke, each composition, and each artistic endeavour, Martin invites us to embark on a journey of introspection and self-discovery, forever reminding us of the transformative potential that art holds within its captivating embrace.