SANTA FE, NM. Ruhlen-Owen Contemporary

Although Martha Rea Baker’s art journey began many years ago, it was her relocation to New Mexico that strongly influenced her exploration into mixed-media abstract painting. Baker’s intrigue with the rich history and culture of the area is reflected within the multiple layers of her paintings. The artist’s personal vision is revealed through subtle textures that invite discovery. Her process becomes a metaphor for life. “All of our past experiences, one building upon the other like the layers on the canvas, weave a rich tapestry,” says Baker.

Martha Rea Baker’s technique of choice is driven by her selection of mediums. She has successfully moved between the unique properties of oil and cold wax, acrylic paint, and encaustic hot wax to skillfully create a cohesive body of artwork for her upcoming solo exhibition. She explains, “I usually have a color tone in mind, one that conveys the mood of the original idea. However once I start to paint, I don’t force the issue. I begin with automatic drawing in charcoal and oil pastel followed by spontaneous layers of color, remaining in this “non-thinking” state as long as possible. I allow the painting to have a life of its own, each line, brushstroke and layer informing the next. I hope to achieve a bit of mystery in my work, inviting the viewer to bring his personal experience to the painting. ‘

Martha Rea Baker’s inspirational journey is derived from her travels as well as her personal observations on the natural passage of time and is reflected in her ongoing series with titles such as Dordogne, Chronos, Baranca, and Cliffhanger.

Born in Corsicana, Texas and raised in Clinton, Mississippi, Baker attended the University of Mississippi and received her BA from University of California, Santa Barbara. She continued her art studies at the University of Dallas and Collin College in Texas as well as European studies. Since 2006 Baker has resided in Santa Fe where she has become a well-established abstract artist.