Conversations with Nestor Martinez De Los Santos

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nestor Martinez De Los Santos.

Hi Nestor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My career as an artist began to take shape when I found my first art studio in 2014. Moving downtown was a daunting experience for me, as I was relatively new to the art scene. Initially, I focused on drawing and completed only a few paintings, which I would drop off at Art One Gallery in Old Town Scottsdale.

Over time, I transitioned to abstract art and began dropping off artwork at the gallery more frequently, experimenting with new approaches. As the years went by, I made connections with fellow creatives and forged relationships that I still maintain today. I’ve since relocated to a new studio at the Urban District Center building on 16th and Washington.

Nowadays, I primarily concentrate on updating my website with new artwork, original photos, and local news and announcements related to the building’s activities. My focus remains on developing my craft and sharing my creations with others.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I faced numerous challenges on my journey as an artist. I was once undocumented, but DACA’s approval in 2012 gave me legal status. In 2021, I was suddenly evicted from my art studio and lost everything. After some time away in New York, I returned to start anew and found a new studio space. Despite job changes and ongoing challenges, my art continued to progress and evolve.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As an artist, I prefer to create without relying on references, using simple tools like those found in observational drawing and abstract painting. My focus is on the output, and once I complete a piece of artwork, I’m ready to move on to the next idea.

I have a strict approach to reviewing my work and making decisions about what to keep. If a piece has been at the gallery for too long, it’s a sign that it’s not strong enough and needs to be painted over. This way, I can ensure that only the strongest pieces make it into my portfolio.

When it comes to drawing, I follow a similar process. I wait until I’m done with a set of drawings before making any decisions about which ones to keep. I grade them and only choose the strongest ones to display on my website or at the gallery. Any drawings that don’t meet my criteria are erased. Overall, my approach to creating and curating my work is focused on quality and ensuring that only the best pieces are presented to the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: Nstor.xyz