Before / after / and in between. A few images from recent work documenting the ultra gifted NYC based artist Shantell Martin on her latest 16' x 60' mural project entitled, Use Your Voice, on display at AirBNB HQ in San Francisco.

Capturing Shantell in her creation state can be a bit mesmerizing at times. Her process consists of a live drawing that’s a meditative mix of lines, faces, and whimsical characters. With clear messages of positive intent and inspiration it’s hard not to feel good as the viewer.

And... she gives her crew full creative freedom with doughnut breaks! All around good vibes and always a pleasure to work with.

You can also get a weekly nudge of inspiration on her YouTube channel.

Day 1-4: On assignment shooting the inimitable Shantell Martin creating her latest and largest piece to date, “Don’t Hide” located at the Colorado Convention Center in downtown Denver.

Over the course of four days she allowed me full creative freedom to document her as she took on this massive endeavor of a 20,000 square foot sidewalk mural.

Joking around,I mentioned to her that capturing her process was very similar to capturing a small child or wild animal; erratic movements and completely unpredictable. She Laughed, agreed, and continued on spray painting. As challenging to shoot as she is an absolute pleasure to work with. An inspiring experience to work alongside such a remarkably talented individual and team. Many thanks to Nine Dot Arts and The Denver Theatre District for putting up with me for 4 days straight, and Shantell for the invitation to the mural marathon. The piece is a definite winner.

I've created an overview of the 4 days in a web gallery. Check it out!

"My work is a meditation of lines - a language of creatures, and messages that invites her viewers to share in her creative process. Part autobiographical and part dreamlike whimsy, Martin has created her own world that bridges between fine art, performance art, technology, and the everyday experience: conversation, objects, and places." -Shantell Martin

Project: Shantell Martin - "Use Your Voice"

"Don't Hide" - Project with Shantell Martin