Mrs Charalambou is a lady of many talents and it's safe to say that Martine just loves to create. "I love the human who makes the most out of life. I also get the biggest thrill when I paint or photograph these people..."
A proud Londoner Martine has honed her skills in the east-end of the capital, working predominantly with oil paints and cameras over the years but freely expresses herself in a number of other ways too. "I love making anything creative with my hands, from sewing, crafting, building and painting, I enjoy all art forms really..."
With an extensive collection of paintings already behind her as well as experience hosting a crafting workshop at Paperchase in Tottenham Court Road Martine has decided to take her crafting operation to the next level, by going it alone in the form of the aptly named Pomegranart.
"I teach crafting as it’s a chance to reach people that are afraid of exploring the ‘Arts’, yet by crafting I attempt to draw out the artist within all my students via this avenue in a nurturing format to build their confidence. It’s also a very separate world from my painting and photography life. I like the contrast..."
As you can see (below) I'm teaming up with Martine for her photography skills. Our shoot in Spitalfield Market managed to perfectly capture a seldom seen side of Sir Real. For my colleges at work however the white shirt, waistcoat and tie look was nothing new. Over the coming months we plan to capture Sir Real in a variety of other outfits and locations, each time exploring another side to my fashion and lifestyle.
Beyond our immediate projects together it would be a special honour to one day have my very own portrait painted by such a crafty artist. Maybe I can get the star of last months collaboration feature (Mark Buckwell) to join forces and paint a portrait of me having my portrait painted, just a thought, Lol.
"Martine's a smartie,
As in a sweetheart,
A smart and crafty artista,
That needs art,
As much as art needs her,
And believe sir,
She's the mother of a leader,
Forever getting stuck in,
And never ever needs a breather,
Even when it's troubling,
There's something heavenly,
In her demeanour,
Giving her all to her familia,
It's never just a dream chica,
Eventually we will be seeing you,
In the gallery,
With the salary to boot,
And I'll be there,
Just as glad to see it too..."
Posted (09/05/18)