Marta Pérez García: Exploring Trauma and Resilience Through Sculpture

Marta Pérez García, born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico in 1965, is a Puerto Rican artist whose work delves into profound themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the enduring impact of trauma—particularly gender violence. Her artistic journey began with formal training at Louisiana State University where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1987, followed by an MFA from Tyler School of Art and Architecture at Temple University in Philadelphia in 1993. These formative experiences instilled a meticulous approach to craft and a dedication to confronting difficult subjects with sensitivity and artistic innovation.

• Early Influences: García’s artistic vision was shaped by her upbringing in Puerto Rico, where she absorbed the rich cultural heritage of the island—a tradition deeply rooted in storytelling and symbolism. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of Puerto Rican folklore served as inspiration for her early explorations into visual representation.

Technique: The Woodcarving Reduction Process

She is renowned for her distinctive woodcarving reduction process, a technique that involves painstakingly sculpting wooden boards to create intricate figures destined for printmaking. This method demands patience, precision, and an unwavering commitment to detail, mirroring the artist’s meticulous exploration of complex emotional landscapes. Each carving corresponds to the printing of one color, resulting in stunning prints that capture both texture and nuance. The process itself symbolizes a journey from initial form to final realization—a metaphor for confronting challenges and transforming experiences into enduring artistic expressions.

• Notable Achievements: García’s dedication to this technique has garnered international acclaim, establishing her as one of the foremost practitioners of woodcut printmaking in contemporary art.

The Sculptural Exploration of Trauma

García's artistic focus shifted dramatically in recent years toward addressing the pervasive issue of gender violence. Recognizing the silence surrounding this critical concern—particularly within marginalized communities—she embarked on ambitious multimedia projects designed to amplify voices and foster dialogue. Her installations often incorporate collaborative efforts with local organizations, empowering survivors and transforming spaces into platforms for reflection and action. The artist’s work confronts uncomfortable truths about societal dynamics and seeks to provoke empathy and understanding.

• Notable Projects: Among her accomplishments is the *I’m Gonna Get You* installation at the Reeves Center, which powerfully confronts gender violence through a striking assemblage of sculptural elements. This project utilizes repurposed materials—primarily paper—to symbolize resilience and transformation amidst adversity.

Contemporary Relevance & Collections

Her prints are characterized by a mesmerizing dance between repetition and rupture—a visual language that reflects García’s exploration of duality and transformation. Large images draw viewers into minute details, revealing layers of meaning and inviting contemplation on the complexities of human experience. The artist's use of geometric patterns alongside figurative representations underscores her ability to convey both intellectual rigor and emotional depth. García’s artworks are held in prominent collections including Museo Arte de Puerto Rico, Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico, and the Library of Congress, Washington DC. She continues to push boundaries within contemporary art, experimenting with structural paper making and securing residencies at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center. Her ongoing pursuit of artistic innovation—coupled with her unwavering dedication to confronting social injustices—solidifies her position as a vital voice in the realm of visual storytelling.

• Recognition: García has been awarded Public Art Building Communities Grants, in 2018 for *I’m Gonna Get You*, and again in 2020.