About
Martin Pope, Abstract Artist in Columbia, MO
Martin Pope embarked on a self-taught painting journey during the COVID-19 lockdown, initially drawn to representational art. Yet, it wasn't until a spontaneous shift to improvisational, nonobjective art that he uncovered a profound affinity for this medium. Embracing this newfound passion, he dedicated himself to daily painting, swiftly becoming a staple in Columbia's art scene.
Raised in Columbia, Missouri, Martin's artistic expression began in theater and writing. At 17, he was already creating and staging plays, with his directorial debut, "Life on the 6:55," taking place at the University of Missouri during his final year of high school. His exploration of the arts continued at Truman State University, where he pursued theater and honed his musical talent as a guitarist and lead vocalist for local rock bands. He also enjoyed a stint as a top 40 DJ.
Post-college, Martin's creative endeavors took him to Hollywood for a decade, where his acting credits spanned stage, indie films, and television — including a recurring role on the series “Haunted.” As a writer, he contributed to Cartoon Network's “Class of 3000,” notably penning episode 22.
Upon returning to Missouri, Martin's versatility shone through his work with the Long Beach Shakespeare Company. Dashiell Hammett's estate there commissioned him to craft and direct the inaugural stage adaptation of "The Maltese Falcon." He also channeled his storytelling into the digital realm with the webcomic “Vorto the Pirate.”
Martin's abstract art has graced venues such as Teller's Gallery & Bar, Dogmaster Distillery, American Club Association, Barred Owl Butcher, Dandy Lion Café, Sycamore, Orr Street Studios, Boone County National Bank and MKLush Salon – enriching the local culture with his diverse artistic contributions.
Artist's Statement
During the solitude of 2020's lockdown, I ventured into painting, envisioning a path toward representational artistry. Yet, the untouched paints lingered, a silent testament to unrealized aspirations. It was only when I cast aside my initial intentions that my creative journey began.
In an impromptu revelation, I embraced the canvas with unrestrained expression, allowing colors and forms to emerge unbidden. Painting became a dance of improvisation, a liberating escape from the rigid goals of my past artistic endeavors. It was a revelation that paralleled my experiences in theatre—valuing the moment's authenticity above all.
I approach each piece with minimal forethought, selecting hues instinctively and letting composition unfold spontaneously. Guided by impulse, my work seeks the raw essence of improvisation, the genuine pulse of creation. Pleasing aesthetics are welcomed but are not the quest; I seek an honest dialogue with the canvas, even if it leads to a creation that defies conventional beauty.
In this artistic pursuit, the goal is not to craft an experience but to witness it as it unfolds, embracing the true art, not the art that merely seeks to impress.
