Chris Martinez was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a place rich in beauty and artistic tradition. Growing up in this environment nurtured his love of art. As a child, Chris was obsessed with drawing, a passion that led him to earn a Bachelor's in Studio Art from the University of New Mexico.

As an emerging artist, Chris most enjoys using his work to explore reality and the human condition. He is especially drawn to examining both the flaws and accomplishments of our species and how they intersect with the forces of nature. Chris primarily uses acrylic paint, aerosol, and digital software. He enjoys the challenge of painting realistically and intricately rendering subjects while also exploring themes such as beauty, place, and purpose.

Curiosity is at the core of Chris’s practice. He is compelled to ask difficult questions, investigate, and reflect. Through his work, Chris aims to foster that same curiosity in others. He creates art to study humanity, contribute to the visual world, and spark inquiry—one piece at a time.

2025 - City of Albuquerque - Route 66 Centennial Horizontal Asphalt Mural - Lead Artist - Albuquerque, NM

2024 - Albuquerque International Airport Public Art Mural - Finalist (Top 7 out of 377) - $400k Budget - Albuquerque, NM

2023 - Whole Foods Grocery Store Mural - Contributing Artist - Albuquerque, NM

2023 - Mural for a Fortune 100 Tech Company (NDA) - Contributing Artist - Los Lunas, NM

2023 - Vision Zero/Artful Life/ City of Albuquerque Public Art Mural - Contributing Artist - Albuquerque, NM

2023 - Harwood Art Center/Albuquerque Public Schools - Youth Mural Project Teacher - Albuquerque, NM

2022 - Urban Enhancement Trust Fund/ City of Albuquerque - Residency Award Winner - Albuquerque, NM

2018 - South Broadway Cultural Center - Dia De Los Muertos Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2018 - Angel Flight West - Fundraiser Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2017 - Angel Flight West - Fundraiser Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2017 - South Broadway Cultural Center - Dia De Los Muertos Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2017 - Duel Brewing - Emerging Artists Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2016 - South Broadway Cultural Center - Dia De Los Muertos Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2015 - South Broadway Cultural Center - Emerging Artist Solo Show - Albuquerque, NM

2015 - South Broadway Cultural Center - Dia De Los Muertos Group Show - Albuquerque, NM

2012 - Jewish Community Center (JCC) - Art Program Teacher - Albuquerque, NM

Education

The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

Bachelors of Arts, Art Studio

2015