Big future in art on horizon for Noemi
By Greg Chapman
CQUniversity’s Visual Arts training has boosted Noemi Martinez’s artistic prowess, with the 33-year-old recently winning the major prize at the 2024 Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition.
Creating to the exhibition theme of “Whitsunday Wonders: Above & Below the Surface” Noemi’s acrylic painting, “Panorama” captivated the judges, earning the Airlie Beach resident the acquisitive prize of $3000.
“I feel honoured. When I heard my piece Panorama was Best in Show and won the Acquisitive Award, I couldn't believe it. I was proud of my artwork, but I was secretly feeling like an underdog. Now my painting is part of the Whitsunday Regional Council collection,” she said.
“The (exhibition) was open to all artists residing along the Great Barrier Reef, from 1770 to Cooktown and as you can imagine, amazing artwork was displayed in it. It was great seeing my piece amongst so many experienced and talented artists' work.”
Noemi’s artist statement said her painting Panorama explored a different view of the intricate nature within the Great Barrier Reef's ecosystem.
“Through a blend of contrast, realism, and surrealism, I invite viewers into a scene where corals, plants, and fauna join in a dreamlike assembly. Against a velvety charcoal background, the chiaroscuro and glazing techniques accentuate the interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the depth and mystery of the composition,” she wrote.
“My intention is to present a close-up perspective that highlights the beauty of individual elements within the larger picture. By isolating these details, I aim to provoke contemplation on the fragility of this region's nature, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the diversity that sustains the reef's ecosystem.”
Noemi said winning the prize was a massive positive influence and a boost to her confidence.
“One year ago, I participated in the Bowen Art Exhibition with another piece, “On the Edge”, which was Highly Commended. That was my only other time,” she said.
“After all, this is just the beginning of my journey. It means a lot to know my artwork is valued. Now I want to keep learning and evolving as an artist. See what else is to come.”
She said CQU’s Diploma of Visual Arts, with its online focus, had been a significant booster as well.
“I'm thoroughly enjoying studying for my diploma. I am really happy that it is very centered in building not just only a practice, but also a profession. Thanks to the course, I have a better understanding of how to professionally reach goals and grow as an artist,” she said.
“Studying arts is something I had in my mind for a long time now, but never really had the chance to do it.
“In an outer remote town like Airlie Beach, there are not many options for studying and developing a professional career. CQUniversity along with the Fee-Free TAFE program gave me the opportunity to finally study this course online from home.”
While she isn’t looking to exhibit her work just yet Noemi is using the recent win to motivate herself to develop more art.
At the moment, I'm focusing on my studies and developing a body of work. However, as part of my studies, I'll have to exhibit my work soon, either online or in a gallery. I think that will be another big pivotal point in my career,” she said.
“I'm really happy and blessed about the opportunity I'm having for exploring and developing this whole part of my life I love. If I could reach any people with doubts about studying, I would tell them: Go on, you can do it! It's never too late, or too hard.”
