Tirzo Martha is a multidisciplinary artist whose work is grounded in social engagement and education. He makes sculptures, videos, and performances. His artworks, exhibitions, and projects range from autonomous installations in public spaces to participatory sculptures in renowned museums around the world. What is important in Martha’s practice is the social involvement that forms the basis of his works. He manages to involve his audience directly or indirectly in the creative process.
Education is an important part of Martha’s practice. In 2006, Tirzo Martha and artist David Bade founded the Instituto Buena Bista Curacao Centre for Contemporary (IBB) on the island of Curaçao. The institute, situated on the terrain of a psychiatric clinic, provides a platform for art education and contemporary art that simultaneously stimulates awareness and enrichment of the local art and cultural heritage. At the same time, the institute introduces new cultural and art developments from around the world to the island. Tirzo lives parttime on Curaçao and parttime in Amsterdam.
Furthermore, Martha has been a guest teacher at various art academy and master studies. for years
Tirzo on mentoring
“Not only alumni, but also artists that have been working for some time after graduating from the academy, question themselves: How can I develop my art practice? And how can I get it to the next stage? I often suggest going back to the roots first: defining your qualities and how they fit a certain type of practice. Surviving in the art world comes with multiple uncertainties, and it is therefore even more important to create clarity on who you are as an artist.
For many years I have mentored both younger and older talents to give them guidance and support them with the development of their professional practice. After having established your qualities, we will create insight into the various ways to develop your practice in a way that suits you.
Because the more traditional route – for example, getting discovered and being put on the big stage right away – is not made for everyone. So, together we will look at your current situation and the next steps to take based on your work, experience and urgency.”