Martha Sanchez-Hayre’s journey as an artist is rooted in her upbringing in Colombia, where her love for art and textiles began. Born and raised in a vibrant cultural environment, she studied Textile Design early in her career, developing a lifelong appreciation for tapestry and its intricate textures. This foundation shaped her artistic approach and continues to influence her work today.
For the past 21 years, Martha has lived in the United States, where she expanded her artistic skills and earned a professional certification in Fine Arts from Sessions College. This education deepened her understanding of painting techniques, allowing her to transition from textiles to other mediums, including oils and acrylics. Regardless of the medium, her art consistently focuses on evoking joy and positivity.
Martha’s philosophy is simple yet profound: art should make people smile. She believes in creating works that offer a brief escape from the stresses of life, providing moments of reflection and uplifting energy. Her inspiration often comes from nature—lush landscapes, vivid wildlife, and delicate florals—and she seeks to capture the beauty and vitality of these subjects in her paintings.
Her abstract painting Surprise! is a prime example of her artistic mission. This piece represents the unexpected—a burst of bright colors that emerge from a dark background. The harmonious interplay of light and color creates a sense of happiness and surprise, aligning perfectly with Martha’s goal of fostering positive emotions through her work. This theme of optimism runs through all her pieces, whether they depict natural scenes or abstract representations of joyful experiences.
Martha’s work is as much about the process as the result. She approaches each piece with the intention of crafting a visual narrative that resonates emotionally with viewers. Her use of bold colors and dynamic compositions reflects her passion for life and her desire to share that energy with others. Every brushstroke feels intentional, yet her paintings retain a sense of spontaneity that makes them approachable and relatable.
One of the key aspects of her art is its accessibility. Martha doesn’t aim to create works that are overly complex or hard to interpret. Instead, she focuses on simplicity and beauty, crafting pieces that speak directly to the heart. Her paintings invite viewers to pause, take a breath, and find joy in the small details of life—a vibrant flower, a serene landscape, or the interplay of light and shadow.
Living in the United States has offered Martha new perspectives and opportunities to grow as an artist. While her Colombian roots remain a significant influence, her years in the U.S. have allowed her to experiment with different techniques and styles, blending her background in textiles with her fine arts training. This fusion of influences gives her work a unique voice, one that is both rooted in tradition and open to exploration.
Martha’s ability to evoke emotion is perhaps her greatest strength. Her paintings are not just visual; they are emotional experiences. Whether through the vibrant energy of her abstracts or the gentle tranquility of her landscapes, she manages to create a connection between her art and her audience. This connection is what makes her work stand out—it’s not just about what you see but how it makes you feel.
Through her paintings, Martha also explores themes of self-esteem, celebration, and personal joy. She often represents situations or moments that uplift and inspire, encouraging viewers to see the beauty in themselves and the world around them. This focus on positivity is a consistent thread in her work, making it both meaningful and deeply personal.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, Martha’s art serves as a reminder of the simple joys in life. Her paintings don’t just decorate a space—they transform it, filling it with warmth, color, and optimism. Whether it’s the unexpected burst of color in Surprise! or the serene beauty of a floral arrangement, her work brings a sense of calm and happiness to those who experience it.
Martha Sanchez-Hayre continues to create from her home in the U.S., carrying forward her Colombian heritage and her belief in the power of art to uplift. Her journey from textiles to fine arts has been one of growth and exploration, and her paintings reflect a life dedicated to sharing joy and positivity. For Martha, art isn’t just about creating something beautiful—it’s about making the world a little brighter, one brushstroke at a time.
