Arts & Entertainment

Artist Reveals 'New Creations'

Union City resident debuts exhibit at NewPark Mall's art center.

For Francisco Javier Martinez, art is about more than just replicating an image.

Instead, the local artist simply creates. Whether he is detailing a lake or depicting a feeling abstractly, he said his work is more about illustrating images through his eyes.

"I never liked to copy things. I see it and do things my way," Martinez said.

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His passion for being innovative can easily be seen through his art, which will be displayed in his exhibit that debuts at the NPM Cultural Corner at on Friday.

Deemed New Creations, the Union City resident’s work will line the walls of the art from August 5 until August 31.

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From watercolors to oil paints, each piece is unique. Martinez, 67, said he doesn’t follow a particular technique. In fact, he said he begins each art piece without a complete vision in mind.

At times, he is inpired by the moment. In one made the day after Dia de Los Muertos in November 2010, faded faces and skulls can be found among the black-and-white painting.

Dia De Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican tradition in which people gather to remember and pray for their loved ones who have died.

Other artwork depicts natural settings, many of which are local to the communities in which Martinez is attached to.

The Mexican native came to Union City during his teenage years, but often visits his hometown of Celaya in Guanajuato, Mexico. Landscape watercolors show local areas like Quarry Lakes and Coyote Hills.

A former carpenter, Martinez said he first began painting as a teenager and never stopped, and what he said he loves most about art is the freedom of it all.

He has sold thousands of paintings and been featured in exhibits throughout Northern California – from Sacramento to Monterey – and Mexico. Interested buyers will be able to inquire about pricing with Martinez during the art show’s hours.

The New Creations exhibit will be displayed from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays. The is located on the lower level of the mall near .


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