Painting came to me naturally – Martin Lawrence

Martins Lawrence Akande, popularly called Teenez Martinez, cannot do without charcoal pencils. The Nigerian artist, who is a professional accountant, said he started painting when he was seven years old. He told Daily Trust on Sunday that he hoped to cause a positive change in the society through artistic painting. Akande, who is a recipient of the Galileo Galilei and Cristoforo Columbo prizes, perceived to be the most valuable and biggest art prizes in the world, also spoke about the challenges he encounters as an artist and advised upcoming artists to remain steadfast. You received the International Galileo Galile Prize, believed to be the most prestigious prize in art. How do you feel about it?

I feel elated. I was asked this question by a media house when it happened and I must say it’s a dream come true. Being a recipient of the prize means a lot to me as an artist. I have always wanted to make an impact in this industry, and this only shows that my works are making a great impact in the lives of many and the society as a whole. An artist who gets recognised for such an award feels honoured. My prayer and hope is that this award inspires other artists across the country and beyond. Many have similar hopes, and my word of advice to them is not to lose hope. We all find inspiration, and can be inspired by stories of people. I hope this would be one of those stories.

When did you start painting, and what was the defining moment for you as a creative artist?

I started painting when I was little, about 7 years old. I’ve always loved to paint and make drawings. I remember I was sitting in the classroom in my junior years when a friend showed me a comic book he made. He drew all the characters. I liked it and told myself that I could do the same. When I got home I picked up a Mickey Mouse magazine and started sketching the characters in there. It was my favourite at the time. Since then, painting has been my thing and will always be.

Did you undergo any special training on painting?

I never had any formal training; it came naturally.

What inspires you? Must you be in a particular mood to paint?

I love beauty, and anything natural gets my imagination working. Yes, there’s a mood I have to be in before I get to work. First, I must be inspired by the project; secondly, I must be in a relaxed and quiet space before proceeding with any piece.

You are known for using charcoal to create artistic effect; why charcoal?

Charcoal has always been my favourite medium. This is so because it has a natural feel.

As an accountant, do you practise your profession or you concentrate on painting?

I practise and paint at the same time. Painting is my passion, but I still practise accountancy. I studied Accountancy at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Which of your tools is more important than others?

That will always be my charcoal pencils. Without them I can’t do anything.

Do you have your own gallery? Have you had any exhibition?

I do not have my own gallery yet, but I have had exhibitons abroad. I am planning to have one in Nigeria. I have also had the opportunity to have my works featured in Oxford (2014 and 2015); Art in America (the world most comprehensive art reference print publication in existence), 2015 edition; Spectrum Miami during Art Basel 2015; Art Expo New York 2015; World Art Dubai 2015; Architectural Digest Design Show 2015, New York, and Art UpClose. It was an amazing experience and I feel honoured to have had such opportunities to expose my artistic side to the world.

What is your goal as an artist?

My goal as an artist is to inspire and cause a postive change in the world we presently live in. I strongly believe in Nigerian arts; we have a lot to offer to the world. I want my art to be an inspiration and influence for change in the world.

Which of your paintings got you the highest pay?

Well, it must be one of my niece’s pieces. That I remember.

In your opinion, has Nigeria fully utilised its potentials in the creative industry?

Certainly not, but we are slowly getting there. It’s going to take some time, but we are not where we were years back in terms of appreciating artists. It’s a work in progress and we are getting there.

Do you think African arts have received much attention in the society? How has your work been received in Nigeria and across

Africa?

A lot of attention is being paid to African-inspired artworks across the globe. As we know, in Nigeria and across Africa, we are still in the early stages. At the same time, I must say it has been well received. As for my works, I wouldn’t say it has not been well received; most clients are appreciative and always refer to them or come back for more.

What are some of the challenges you have faced?

The most prominent challenge will be irregular scheduling. The second one is building a reputation while keeping up with clients’ demands.

What are you currently working on? Do we expect anything from you?

I am currently preparing for a jury role in the AE Design awards, which is meant to celebrate the exploits of Nigerian architects and innovators. I am also working on my personal projects and at the same time commissioning projects for a series of art events.

What advice do you have for Nigerian artists?

I know it’s not easy to be an artist, especially in Nigeria as dreams easily get dashed. My advice to other artists is that they should keep their dreams alive no matter what stage they might be right now. They should remain steadfast and keep the momentum going. They should never relent on what they have set out to achieve. They should believe and be consistent because, as they continue to grow, they can achieve anything.