Visual artist Cristina Martinez [1]'s first encounter with art came from watching Bob Ross on TV. Though she admired his extraordinary talent — it's what first sparked her interest in painting — she lamented the fact that it was challenging to find artists who looked like her. Today, with a colourful portfolio of self-portraits and abstract prints, plus a third collaboration with Nordstrom [2], she's increasing representation for artists of colour on her own. In fact, her work is rooted in making space for Black and brown people.
Born an only child in Tacoma, WA, to a 15-year-old mother, the Afro-Latina artist spent a lot of time alone in her early years. While her mother worked three jobs, Martinez would gather nail polish and napkins and create elaborate paintings, which eventually gave way to more expansive forms of self-expression. True to form, Martinez's latest collection for Nordstrom is also informed by her surroundings. Styled and photographed by her friends and relatives, the collection is "inspired by community," she tells POPSUGAR. With cloud-print lounge sets and butterfly-print separates, the designs blend Martinez's bold artwork with classic Nordstrom silhouettes.
The butterflies strike a sentimental chord. "They come from a story my grandmother told me when I was younger," she says. "Before my great-grandmother passed away, she had told my grandmother to always think of her whenever she sees a butterfly." Martinez shared the story with her daughter, who now gets excited whenever she encounters a butterfly.
Whether it's the butterfly pattern or the abstract face print, each detail about the collection holds meaning for Martinez, which makes it a truly unique launch. Ahead, shop our favourite pieces.
Cristina Martinez Butterfly Hooded Raincoat
Cristina Martinez Butterfly Hooded Raincoat [4] ($79)
Cristina Martinez Print Tiered Sundress
Cristina Martinez Print Tiered Sundress [5] ($119)
Cristina Martinez Short Sleeve Button-Up Shirt
Cristina Martinez Short Sleeve Button-Up Shirt [6] ($79)
Cristina Martinez Print Poet Blouse
Cristina Martinez Print Poet Blouse [7] ($89)
Cristina Martinez Mismatched Flower Drop Earrings
Cristina Martinez Mismatched Flower Drop Earrings [8] ($35)
Cristina Martinez Offf-Shoulder Bodysuit
Cristina Martinez Offf-Shoulder Bodysuit [9] ($59)
Cristina Martinez Graphic Tunic
Cristina Martinez Graphic Tunic [10] ($49)
Cristina Martinez Embroidered Nylon Bomber Jacket
Cristina Martinez Embroidered Nylon Bomber Jacket [11] ($149)
Cristina Martinez Intarsia Floral Sweater Dress
Cristina Martinez Intarsia Floral Sweater Dress [12] ($119)
Cristina Martinez Oversize Nightshirt
Cristina Martinez Oversize Nightshirt [13] ($49)
Cristina Martinez Print Skirt
Cristina Martinez Print Skirt [14] ($89)
Cristina Martinez Rainbow Print Cotton Dress
Cristina Martinez Rainbow Print Cotton Dress [15] ($99)
Cristina Martinez Thong Mock Neck Bodysuit
Cristina Martinez Thong Mock Neck Bodysuit [16] ($59)
Cristina Martinez Oversize Lounge Pants
Cristina Martinez Oversize Lounge Pants [17] ($45)
Cristina Martinez Cotton Denim Overalls
Cristina Martinez Cotton Denim Overalls [18] ($99)