"Life is a journey of self-discovery, shaped by either wins or lessons, and the indelible marks they leave behind. It presents us with a rich
tapestry of memories that mold us into the individuals we are today. The imperfections and blemishes that accompany this journey
imbue us with a unique character and a depth of story that sets us apart. This collection of abstract assemblages I created from
reclaimed materials serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and the ability to find beauty in the midst of life's
challenges.” —J. Kent Martin

Life is a journey full of experiences that shape humans into who they are. Every moment, every decision, and every action leaves a mark
that becomes part of one's story. The exhibition Life Underway by J. Kent Martin presents a collection of abstract assemblages that
explores the concept of life and its transformative effect on individuals.

Constructed from 55 panels of reclaimed Masonite sheet and shipping crate lumber chosen to symbolize the artist's 55 years of life thus
far, the materials used in the collection represent movement, salvation, and making the most of what one has in life. Through an
intentional use of the imperfections and irregularities of the raw materials and their construction, the artist underscores the idea of
flaws and how they are part of the human experience.

Each panel was first individually painted with thickened paint, applied with either straight brushstrokes or in an almost plaid pattern,
creating the foundation for each piece. Additionally, J. intersects the panels with sections of reclaimed 120-year-old construction
timber, charred to symbolize a resurgence in life, reminiscent of slash-and-burn cultivation in agriculture where the land is cleared by
burning, resulting in a nutrient-rich layer of soil to grow new crops.

All the elements are then singly assembled into sculptural compositions, allowing the materials to dictate the outcome of the pieces -
encouraging the audience to find beauty in the unexpected. The use of acrylic and oil paints, as well as materials like cattle markers and
black tar, creates a visual dialogue between the materials themselves as they dry and react to each other. The abstract nature of the
assemblages invites viewers to interpret each piece in their own way, making it personal to their own life experiences.

The collection is not meant to be a literal representation of any specific thing or event but rather a reflection of the artist's personal
journey and a celebration of life's lessons. Life Underway is a thought-provoking, introspective, and visually stunning exhibition that
encourages the audience to celebrate the journey of life and the marks it leaves on them. It’s an exploration of the interconnectedness of
all things and the way that experiences shape humans in unexpected ways.