Martha A. Wade
Martha A. Wade is deeply involved in the fine arts community as an artist, educator, muralist, and curator. Her artwork has a dreamlike feel, where a sense of movement is created in every piece. You will often find star constellations immersed in Martha’s work, exhibiting how we are all connected to each other, and to the Universe. The art seeks to uplift spirits by giving a glimpse of what people can achieve at their 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 has 15 years of experience in painting and art administration while running Galleryna19, and serving on the Board of the South Side Community Art Center. Martha is a founding artist member of the Pigment International Arts Collective, and a Paint the City artist.
On Art + Mental Health
Art has enabled me to find my voice, and helped me become more confident. I always felt different from my family and most people … until I found my family of artist friends. Meeting like-minded creatives, and fellow weirdos has been the best therapy. In Chicago, we are a fellowship of people working in different styles but toward a common good. To be able to create something with my own hands, feels like such a positive contribution to the world.