Rusty Martinez

By DARLA MCCAMMON
Lakeland Art Association

Rucel Martinez (Rusty) was born in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico and lived there for 18 years before moving to the United States to attend Grace College. He has traveled extensively throughout Mexico and the United States and is preparing for a long internship in Japan for five months this summer. His parents drove from Oaxaca to Ohio (the birthplace of his mother) almost every summer when he was growing up and taught him to appreciate both cultures. 

I first met Rusty Martinez at the senior art show at Grace College in the Mount Memorial Exhibit Hall.  His photography was captivating and shows much promise. Martinez just graduated from Grace with a double major and BA degrees in both photography and graphic design. His parents are missionaries and Martinez is carrying on their faith as he prepares to enter the world of work for which he has gained his training at Grace College. 

Mexico moments as well as scenes from the United States are included in his fascinating exhibit that is now on view at the Warsaw City Hall Art Gallery. Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Martinez shares his views on Mexico with “Mexico as a whole is a complicated mix of the traditional and the modern. This is reflected both in the people and their style of dress as well as the architecture.” He goes on to say “there is much the two cultures of Mexico and the United States still have to learn about each other.” Martinez, with his young and idealistic zeal, is hoping to help bridge that gap.

When you visit the exhibit, be sure to look for the old lady with her Bible and next, take a careful look at the very unique door handle he has captured on yet another photograph. His photos are reasonably priced and you can arrange to own one at [email protected].

I am looking forward to the results we will see when he introduces yet a third culture to his repertoire after his trip to Japan this summer. Make time to go visit the work of Rucel Martinez. It is worth the visit.

Upcoming events:

• The Rucel Martinez exhibit opened at Warsaw City Hall Gallery on May 22. Martinez is a skilled photographer and is beginning to enrich his credentials. Visit for free 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. 
• Spring Competition Show will be on display till the next exhibit opens. Stop by and enjoy this wonderful array of work. 
• Adult and Children Workshops always available.  Call (574) 594-9950 for information.
• Honeywell themed show coming down soon for the “Best of the Best” student competition. Call Honeywell Clark Art Gallery for more information at (260) 563-1102.
• First Saturday in June, LAA will sponsor a fabulous fun kid’s tent for art at Winona Lake Village. LAA is located at 107 N. First St., Pierceton or www.lakelandartassociation.org, also on Facebook contact your author/artist Darla at [email protected] any time you have comments or questions.