Catherine Martinez-Perez of CMP Studios LLC
A Journey of Artistic Discovery
Early Inspiration and Artistic Beginnings | Catherine’s passion for art began at the tender age of four when her father recognized her innate creativity and nurtured her budding talent. It was during these formative years that she experienced her first true encounter with art. Sitting at her father’s side, she was captivated by the colors and shapes he shared with her from the world of classical art. This early exposure ignited a spark that would grow into a lifelong love affair with artistic expression. What made her want to become an artist was the realization that through art, she could communicate emotions and ideas that transcend words. The process of creating something beautiful from her imagination became a way for her to understand and engage with the world around her.
Artistic Themes and Influences | Catherine’s work is deeply rooted in the themes of nature, the innocence of childhood, and the interconnectedness of life. She believes that art should evoke emotion and provoke thought, serving as a bridge between the artist and the viewer. Her extensive travels have provided a rich tapestry of experiences that continue to shape her work. Among the most profound influences are the Mayan pyramids in Belize, particularly Xunantunich. The ancient majesty of these structures, coupled with the vibrant culture and spirit of the people of Belize, deeply resonate in her art, infusing it with a sense of history and cultural reverence.
Equally impactful was her visit to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. The museum’s vast collection of classical art expanded her understanding of artistic tradition and inspired her to blend these timeless techniques with her own unique style. These experiences, drawn from both the ancient world of the Mayans and the classical halls of the Hermitage, converge in her work, where she seeks to capture the fleeting beauty of moments and emotions, preserving them on canvas for others to experience.
Artistic Approach and Techniques | Catherine’s artistic approach is characterized by her dedication to the medium of watercolor, which she uses to create large, detailed paintings that are both vibrant and delicate. Her style is a harmonious blend of realism and impressionism, allowing her to portray the essence of her subjects while leaving room for the viewer’s interpretation. She employs a meticulous layering technique, building up color and depth gradually to achieve the desired effect. Her work often focuses on the subtle interplay of light and shadow, and she is particularly adept at capturing the fluidity and transparency that watercolors afford. Though she enjoys experimenting with other mediums, watercolors remain her true passion, as they offer her the freedom to express the nuances of her subjects in a way that no other medium can.
A Personal Reflection | After taking a break from painting to focus on her family, Catherine has returned to her artistic roots with renewed vigor. Now, she is excited to re-engage with her first love—painting—and to continue exploring the depths of her creativity. In addition to her art, she finds joy in baking, teaching art to children, and cherishing the time spent with her beloved husband, grand children, family and close friends.
Artist’s Quote | “To create one’s own world takes courage.” – Georgia O’Keeffe
This quote resonates deeply with Catherine, as it encapsulates her journey as an artist—one marked by courage, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of beauty.
Awards & Accolades | Exhibitions
Giovanni Villanueva | Huntington Beach, CA
2016 Anonymous | Santa Barbara, CA
Mr. and Mrs. Rosenberg | Laguna Niguel, CA
Mike and Maryann Darby | Las Vegas, NV
Philippe and Lola Turpault | Almaden, CA
Big Z's | Simi Valley, CA
2003 Anonymous | Harrisburg, PA
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Brickenhoff | Westlake Village, CA
Paul Chen | Westlake Village, CA
Mr. and Mrs. John R. Perez | Thousand Oaks, CA
Collections
Artavita: 69th Artist Of The Year 2024 distinction - FINALIST: Nehemiah “No, I don’t wanna” click link for virtual exhibit.
Richeson75 International Competition: Small Works 2019 - MERITORIOUS AWARD: Cascading Orchids
Fusion Art: 2nd Annual Womens Artist Exhibition 2019 - FINALIST: Cascading Orchids
American Art Awards: 2019 Category 17: Floral Realism - SIXTH PLACE: Purple Abyss
Fusion Art: 2nd Annual Leaves and Petals 2017 - BEST of SHOW: Rainbow Dew
Celeste Prize 2016, 8th Edition - HONORABLE MENTION: Rainbow Dew
Awards
Group Exhibitions
The Huntington Beach Art Center: Celebrating 30 years of HBAC - Centered on the Center 2025
Contemporary Art Gallery Online: 2021 Hispanic Heritage Month Group Exhibition
Artavita San Diego Group Exhibition - October 2019
Solo Exhibitions
Coming 2025