Cherie Martin Irwin

I create vibrant, mixed-media worlds where color and playfulness collide, driven by a deep admiration for the raw, uninhibited expression of folk art and untrained artists. My artistic practice, encompassing fiber, mosaic, mixed media, and found objects, is a quirky exploration of repurposing and reinvention. As an environmentalist at heart, I am driven to transform discarded materials into quirky works of art, breathing new life into what was once considered waste. My pieces are infused with a sense of humor and an unwavering optimism, reflecting my own outlook on the world. Recurring motifs, such as hearts and mandalas, symbolize love, unity, and the cyclical nature of life. These elements, combined with a bold palette and tactile textures, create a visually engaging experience that invites viewers to rediscover beauty in the ordinary. Inspired by the storytelling tradition of folk art, I strive to create narratives that resonate on a personal and emotional level. I am drawn to the ability to convey powerful messages from the heart, unburdened by technical constraints. My art is an invitation to embrace serendipity, celebrate resourcefulness, and find energy in the unexpected.

Born on California’s coast and shaped by a life of frequent moves across five states, Cherie Martin Irwin is an artist defined by adaptability and curiosity. Though she earned honors degrees in film and theatre, her path in visual art is largely self-taught, driven by a lifelong joy in creation. After retiring from multiple careers, she experienced a creative renaissance, moving from fiber arts into a diverse repertoire of mixed media, mosaics, painting, and papier-mâché. Inspired by the vibrant energy of folk artists Frida Kahlo, Howard Finster, and Faith Ringgold, Martin Irwin’s work is a testament to optimism. Her practice is deeply rooted in environmentalism; she frequently breathes new life into repurposed objects, transforming them into "colorful, fun, and celebratory" pieces. A lifelong learner, she embraces trial and error to spark her fluid creative process. Now immersed in the culture of New Mexico, Martin Irwin views art as a vital thread for communal engagement. Her work has been showcased at prestigious venues including: Fuller Lodge Art Center (Los Alamos), Sandoval County Metropolitan Courthouse, Jemez Fine Art Gallery and Gallery with a Cause (ABQ). Beyond the studio, she finds inspiration in hiking, travel, and gardening. Aspirational yet grounded, she aims to be a meaningful regional voice, weaving hope and happiness into every "useful thing" she creates. Her art remains an open invitation to revel in whimsy and celebrate life's everyday wonders.

2-D, 3-D, Collage/Mixed Media, Fiber Arts, Mosaic, Painting (all materials), Photography