In the world of fine art, landscapes have long captured the essence of place and identity. Today, artists continue to reinterpret this tradition with fresh eyes. Carrie Martin, a Denver-based fine artist, blends her love of the West with a unique perspective. Her works move beyond the expected cowboy imagery, offering sweeping skies and mountains that celebrate nature’s grandeur.
From Design to Fine Art
Martin began her creative journey in graphic design, establishing Carrie J. Martin Design and Illustration in Colorado in 1989. Over the years, she built a client base that included the Colorado Rockies, major hospitals, and corporate organizations. She explains, “While I enjoyed design work, my true passion was always fine art.”
In 2021, she closed her design business to open Carrie Martin Studio. “I wanted to fully pursue my artistic dream,” she says. This bold move allowed Martin to focus on painting and showcase her vision through exhibitions across the country.
Capturing the Spirit of the West
Growing up in Texas gave Martin a lifelong love of Western landscapes. “I focus primarily on the Colorado lifestyle. I also focus on the West because, having grown up in Texas, I love the West,” she shares. Her paintings, however, move away from traditional Western motifs. “I don’t focus on cowboys and that kind of stuff. I focus more on the West itself, with sweeping skies, mountains and landscapes.”
Martin’s work reflects a deep connection to the land and its atmosphere. This approach resonates with viewers seeking something both familiar and new.
Major Exhibitions and Accolades
Martin’s career continues to reach new heights. “My most notable achievement is my upcoming exhibition in Italy called BORDERS Venice International Art Fair 2025 at the Palazzo Albrizzi-Capello,” she says. The opportunity to display her work internationally marks a significant milestone.
Martin also recently exhibited in Santa Fe in 2024, a city known for its vibrant art scene. “I enjoyed myself there, but showcasing my work in Italy is definitely a higher milestone,” she adds.
Throughout her art career, Martin has earned numerous awards, including the Mayor’s Choice Award for Colorado Dream Series No. 1 – Winter and the Award of Excellence for her Ullr Paper Sculpture at 40 West Art Gallery. During her time in community relations, she also received several Applause Awards and Town Manager Awards for her design contributions in Castle Rock, Colorado.
Embracing New Trends in Art
Martin keeps a close eye on the evolving art world. She notes, “There’s a trend that’s kind of neat in the traditional galleries that we apply for and go into. It’s going to be a large digital show that monetizes by the number of clicks people hit on your particular stuff. I think that is just very forward-thinking.”
This shift toward digital exposure excites Martin as an artist. It allows her to reach audiences far beyond traditional gallery walls.
Life Beyond the Canvas
Outside of her studio, Martin enjoys a life rooted in creativity and community. She has contributed to arts organizations, including AIGA Colorado, where she served in various leadership roles. Her hobbies reflect her love of exploration and design.
Martin also values the relationships she has built over her decades-long career. These connections continue to inspire both her personal and artistic growth.
Looking Forward: A Future Painted in Bold Strokes
Martin’s journey is far from over. With her upcoming exhibition in Venice, she’s preparing to share her vision with an international audience. She remains focused on capturing the beauty of the West in new and forward-looking ways. “This is just the beginning of where my art can go,” she adds.
Through her dedication, Martin proves that following one’s passion can open doors to extraordinary opportunities. Her landscapes remind viewers to look closer at the world around them and, just maybe, see it in a new light.
