LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE
Francis Martin by Peri Hayes Francis Martin of FranKingstyle Tattoos partnered with Steve Ianni of Ianni Ink to launch Art1st Collective in 2023, located at 632 Talbot Street. When Francis and Steve met, they discovered that they studied separately with the same teacher in school. The pair then fell in love with their current building, formerly K&K Locksmiths, and have incorporated wordplay into their name of Art1st Collective as a means to represent the prioritization of their art. Steve is also an Art Therapist, a service offered at this establishment. King Style was the name of Francis’ previous studio, and he sentimentally titled his ongoing business FranKingstyle Tattoos. He describes his younger self hearing the following words from a friend: “You’re going to be painting for kings. You have so many styles.” Ultimately, being creative brings Francis inner peace, as he voices: “I lose myself in time when the world doesn’t have the time to hear me.” Art has been a tool of expression for Francis since childhood: “I am the eldest of four. My mom kept me busy by giving me a pen and paper.” He continues to explore themes through an array of media – referencing Van Gogh as an inspiration, along with the abstract methods of Jackson Pollock. Throughout his career, Francis has practiced airbrushing, constructing metal sculptures and working with soapstone, as well as exercising stitching techniques, painting backward and integrating crackle paint. “I like making people think,” Francis reveals. He intentionally displays his work in a public space to present an opportunity for human-to-human connection and communication.
Creating various murals and portraits over the years, Francis dedicated time to custom projects while living throughout Ontario. He also completed historical murals in Lambton County. To date, Francis strives to prompt conversation about mental health and modern society — embodied in Francis’ series of works — encouraging his audience to explore beyond their discomfort while discussing these important topics.
Page 8 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2024
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