Sleep Walk

Physics and natural science routinely underlie themes in Martinson's work. The light bulb, now an everyday object once sparked a quantum mechanical revolution when physicists puzzled over how electrical energy could transform into light waves. This moment lead to greater understanding of the true nature of reality and has become an essential part of Martinson’s practice. The light bulb acts as a type of cocoon within the works confining creatures whilst simultaneously incubating them – a type of metamorphosis into the developed world. Reminiscent of the themes of Franz Kafka’s novella Metamorphosis, Martinson depicts a space for confined growth “His room, a regular human room, only a little on the small side, lay quiet between the four familiar walls.”

Martinson’s works are a rich tapestry of symbolism, from his anthropomorphic bird figures to the decaying threads that they wear. His works comment on our presence within time, and the fragility of life. This exhibition is a visual consideration of the artist’s observations of the natural world.