Artist Heroes: Andre Martins de Barros

-By Gretta Cole

André Martins de Barros 

1942 (age 81 years)

André Martins de Barros is one of my artist heroes, a beacon of inspiration for my creative journey whose influence shines through my pencil drawings particularly his characters sculpted from books. I’m obsessed with drawing books. His meticulous attention to detail and fine brushwork is something that I aspire to it’s so impressive I have to keep zooming in to explore the layers, it’s a feast for the eyes.

A self-taught artist influenced by the great masters Andre’s work moves through artistic eras, classic, expressionism moving on to more abstract work returning to the classic style which motivates him today. 

Working in his Paris studio in the small quarter of Montmartre, apparently, passers-by can see him at work through the large windows which light his studio. When people view his paintings their reactions range from admiration to curiosity, fright and shock. Whatever feelings are aroused, his works are high-quality masterpieces.

Comparisons have been made with Bosch, Dali, and Arcimboldo, I don’t think he is like any of these artists he’s so unique to himself although I do understand the likening to Arcimboldo. 

When I face his art it draws me in to unravel the hidden meanings, I really want to decipher them but sometimes I find it a challenge because there are so many layers. 

His work is poetic and full of humour. Like bright toys, his art bursts with vibrant colours, animated and playful.

Andre Martins de Barros, a delightful world of dreams and fantasy. 

To say I like André Martins de Barros is like saying I like the air I breathe. 

Maybe next time I’m in Paris I’ll wander by.

Andre Martins de Barros paintings:

'Face / Book' by Gretta Cole: