Photo by Heather Tressler

Gingi Martin stands in front of a display of her art at the Flemish House Art Gallery in Johnsonburg.

Local artist gets enjoyment out of creating. 

By Heather Tressler

Record Staff Writer 

JOHNSONBURG – Gingi Martin is an artist who grew up in St. Marys, and now lives in York, N.Y.
Martin says she has always been interested in drawing, creating and painting. She built her art foundation at St. Marys Area High School, where she was taught by fellow artist Grover Slater. Slater and Martin both have work showcased at the Flemish House Art Gallery. Martin and Slater often display their work together, and Martin says she enjoys it because of their history.
“It's wonderful to show with Grover,” Martin said. “We’ve known each other since high school because he was my art teacher. He was a great inspiration. He loves music.We used to talk about music, and it is really my inspiration.”
Upon completion of high school, Martin moved on to study art and music to receive a bachelor's of arts degree. She recently decided to further her education on to her master's degree of fine arts in painting and sculpture.
When Martin was asked what inspires her to practice art, she said, “Art is a part of you. A lot of people don’t continue to work at it. I am driven to do art, and to continue to learn and study.” Martin says learning and creating is her life’s passion.
During Martin’s journey to achieve her master’s degree, she was required to write a thesis which she featured Beethoven and his creative genius. Martin says she will soon expand on her thesis to a book. Martin is collaborating with her husband, Peter Ferran.
Aspiring artists can get discouraged, but Martin offers a little wisdom.
“Don’t ever stop experimenting with art and media,” said Martin. “Don’t make excuses for not working.”