Martha Wade explores the richness and complexities of black people in her solo exhibition, we are the black gold of the sun, a phrase coined by a close friend. The sun, along with stars and strong spirit animals such as bears and whales, are recurring motifs in her work to personify strength, grandeur, longevity and vitality. This is especially embodied in response to these times of social unrest, distress, and duress that so often fall at the feet of black people and people of color.
Throughout her work, Wade seeks to depict her subjects as larger than life alongside
architectural linework and cityscapes. Full of life and color, the grains and shades of her wooden palettes become the skin tones of her subjects, representing journeys around the sun — both materially and through the lives of the individuals depicted.
Wade lets the work speak for itself and returns back to the basics of illustration by creating detailed lineworks with ink, remixing her own work through collage, mixed media, and works from her father, also an artist.
Wade wants the viewer to remember when looking at her work, there is always light in darkness,
and we are always the brightest stars.
Artist Bio:
Martha A. Wade is an award winning visual artist from Chicago who has always carried a deep passion for art making. Her painting style utilizes whimsical themes of fantasy and hope, to portray cultural and historical themes in a positive tone. Her artwork has a dreamlike feel, as Martha works to create a sense of movement in every piece. You will often find star constellations hidden in Martha’s work – her way of visualizing that we are all made of stardust. Her art seeks to uplift spirits by giving a glimpse of what people can achieve at our highest potential. Her tapestry of everyday people with rustic elements of fantasy suggest that common ground exists, where everyone is empowered to fulfill their dreams. Martha’s work often has a dual theme, as in her series of children with spirit animals of Childhood Dreams & Conquered Fears. The message speaks to the strength of children who are often fearless, and at the same time encourages us to hold on to our innocence. Her latest body of work Sirens deals with the blessings and stigma of being a powerful woman, often seen as intimidating and alluring by others. Martha learned to create at the foot of her artist father Eugene “Eda” Wade, who she watched and admired as a young girl longing for a canvas of her own. She has gone on to create over 200 paintings on wood and canvas. Her work can be found in private homes and collections around the world.
Artist Statement:
Martha Wade seeks to combat the negative images often shown in media when Chicago, and people of color, are portrayed. Wade paints whimsical themes of fantasy and portrays cultural themes in a positive tone. Wade’s paintings depict people achieving their dreams and reaching their highest potential. Utilizing creative energy to express strength, vulnerability, hope or fear has always allowed Wade to find her voice.
To download the exhibition catalog with a full price list and thumbnails of all the works on display please click the link above.”