Artist History
Artist History
John Carl Martin is a world-renowned artist, designer, art educator and published author. He is co-creator of the children’s book series, What Makes Me Happy, What Brings Me Joy, which are co-authored and illustrated with his daughter, Destiny J. Martin.
A successful entrepreneur, John started his first business as a fashion designer while still in high school on his native island, Barbados. After leaving high school, he moved to New York City, where he challenged himself as a designer extraordinaire by creating unique one-of-a-kind pieces for a dedicated clientele. While exploring creativity in the Big Apple, John became fascinated with the art of airbrushing and with dedicated practice he soon developed the discipline needed to integrate this style of art into his business. In 1994 John made his moved to Los Angeles, California, where he launched JMartin Designs, a multimedia arts company. His work has been featured in movies, commercials, music-videos and magazines. His art has been on exhibit in galleries, museums and commissioned by the entertainment industry and individuals worldwide. JMartin Designs has collaborated with companies such as Warner Brothers, New Line Cinema, Sony Picture, Brand Jordan, Mattel, Gap, Audi and Richard Branson’s Virgin Mobile. His custom brand have been collected and featured on celebrities like Missy Elliott, Madonna, Justin Timberlake, David Beckham, P. Diddy, Will Smith, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Gwen Stefani, Pharrell Williams and Don Cheadle, just to name a few. As an educator, he has taught his formula for success in arts to students within the Long Beach Unified School District and has inspired creative individuals throughout Los Angeles and the world.
John Carl Martin currently resides in New York City, where he established his publishing company Happy Island Books. John Carl enjoys working with children, enhancing their creative skills through his interactive, multi-sensory arts and craft workshops. He is active in the New York art community, presenting art exhibits, book readings and workshops designed to inspire and promote peace, love, joy and happiness.
John Carl Martin