Jazmin Martinez

A note from the artist:

“A library is a place for play. Different from the playground, but just as exciting, libraries are a place for the imagination to have fun. As a kid, I wasn't the quickest reader nor was my vocabulary as large as other students. However, at the library, I wasn't pressured to read quickly or expected to catch up to other students. What mattered was picking up a book and letting my mind frolic in the imagery the words created. My library focuses on the aspect of imagination, an area that a child has complete control of without external pressures that may come from learning to read. Imagination cannot be measured or compared. It allows for individuality to develop and playfulness to thrive. Libraries create a space for children to grow at their own pace and to practice the gift to paint amazing images with words. My little library aims to remind children that books do not need to only be lessons, but hold just another playground to run around in.”

Artist bio:

Jazmin is an Arizona based illustrator driven by her love for nostalgia. Cartoons and graphics from the 1990's influences her imagery in a modern context, creating illustrations that embrace playfulness and imagination.

During her studies at Arizona State University, Jazmin took the opportunity to live in Japan, an experience that has further pushed her desire to create work that channels the lighthearted nature that can come in illustration.

Since graduating from ASU with a Bachelor in Fine Arts, Jazmin has expanded her mediums from marker, ink, and watercolor to digital work and graphics.

Jazmin's most recent projects include partaking in local artist collectives such as HUNYGRL and contributing to zines. Jazmin's next step is to revisit Japan where she will continue to let Japanese pop culture be a source of inspiration for all things bright and fun.