Young Guns 21: Marte
By Alixandra Rutnik and Brett McKenzie on Nov 01, 2023
Get to know the phenomenal class of Young Guns 21
After 85 incredible finalists and intense deliberation, the Young Guns jury has narrowed it down to the 29 winners that make up the class of Young Guns 21. An astounding collection of animators, illustrators, film directors, typographers (a few Ascenders 2023 winners as well!), graphic designers, and photographers make up YG21.
Every year we interview the Young Guns winners to get to know them better as artists and people. And as always, we are welcoming another class of outstanding individuals into the highly coveted Young Guns community.
Now that you know the YG21 winners better, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating them in person at NYC’s Sony Hall on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 6:30 PM. See you in two weeks and get ready to party!
Marte
Graphic Designer & Lettering Artist
Based:
Brooklyn, NY
Hometown:
Junín, Argentina
What were your original impressions of the Young Guns competition, the award, and the community?
Three years ago my friend and colleague Yani Arabena nominated me to enter, but when I saw who had won before I was so intimidated I thought there’d be no chance for me. She insisted I should give it a try, so I did. I ended up being a finalist that year, which gave me the confidence to continue entering the following years.
How did you end up in the creative field anyways?
It kind of happened by accident. When I finished highschool I was curious about graphic design, but I also wanted to study more things. I ended up in science school, studying geology for four years. Just when I began to feel a bit bored of it, my love for drawing resurfaced and I started making gig posters as a hobby. At that time I was playing in a band, so I knew a lot of other indie bands that were always in need of cool flyers. I did it just for fun, but somehow the word spread out very quickly and bands I didn’t know were contacting me, and they were offering money! I thought, "wait, I can make a living out of this? It sounds like a dream!" So I quit geology, started studying graphic design and lettering, and the rest was history. I'm so thankful for having made that change of path, because look how far it got me!
"I did it just for fun, but somehow the word spread out very quickly and bands I didn’t know were contacting me, and they were offering money! I thought, "wait, I can make a living out of this? It sounds like a dream!" So I quit geology, started studying graphic design and lettering, and the rest was history. "
Congrats on the W! Why did you decide to enter this year?
This year was my very last chance! I gave it one last shot because this is the year I’m most proud of my portfolio. I found a more free and playful way to create, and my work has reached a point where I feel it's very true to me. Also, in the last years, I got hired to work on bigger projects which were a great opportunity to show how far I could go.
You only get to submit six projects that embody you and your talent. The best of the very best. So, how did you decide which pieces were good enough to make the cut?
I chose the projects I love the most and had a lot of fun and creative freedom doing. My style can be very versatile, adapting to each project, and I wanted my selection to reflect that. When presenting all six projects together, it was crucial to highlight the uniqueness of each one while also identifying a shared essence that binds them.
What was your reaction when you discovered that you won?
I was at the G subway station with my best friend, who supported me through the whole process of applying, when I got the email. I couldn’t believe it myself, and I whispered it to her and we started jumping and laughing. People were staring and smiling. This was my last chance, so it feels extremely good.
In what ways does your hometown inspire your creativity as an artist? What about your current city?
I grew up in a small town with no internet, so graphic stimulation was very limited. I was visually educated through cartoon shows, MTV, surf clothing brands, and videogames. First thing I ever drew was Sonic the Hedgehog, copying it from my Sega Genesis cartridge, and until today I can still draw Garfield by heart.
Argentina is a very special place because artists there make things even if they don’t have the means or the money. They create because they know it is important, and that is very inspiring. The supporting artist community generates a giant ball of energy motivating others to create.
Now in New York, I find inspiration in every aspect of the city. I can explore 1800s posters, Herb Lubalin's sketches, and the incredible mineral collection at AMNH on any given day—a true privilege. The passion of the people here is contagious and keeps me enthusiastic about learning and discovering more.
Now that you’re a part of the Young Guns community, are there any past winners you look up to and admire?
Oh there are so many! Gemma O’Brien (YG13)! She was one of my first influences when I started doing lettering. I also love how fresh and unique Braulio Amado’s (YG13) work is. Angela Kirkwood (YG20) is sooo great. I love her stuff. Daniels (YG14) are wild. I’m obsessed with them. Also my homie Lebassis (YG18), is a lettering superstar.
Name a creative and professional dream project that you have yet to fulfill — maybe Young Guns will propel you in that direction!
I’d love to continue collaborating with music, film, and animation. Working on movie titles and credits for Disney last year was incredible. I'd love to do more of that– maybe working on the next movie from the Daniels?
Recently, I had the joy of seeing my work on the streets of NYC, and I'm eager for more real-world exposure for my designs, whether on music posters, clothing, or in public spaces.
Also, NASA, if you’re reading this, please hire me!
This is YG21, but what do you imagine you’ll be up to when YG31 rolls around in 2033?
Hopefully somewhere on the beach, swimming in the ocean every morning, and living in a house with lots of capybaras. Professionally, I’d love to be part of a small team of creatives, having a shared space and collaborative projects. I also would like to teach or mentor young creatives.
Will we see you at the YG21 party in NYC in November?
I’ll be there!
Come party with us and celebrate all the Young Guns 21 winners on Wednesday, November 15 at Sony Hall! See you at 6:30 PM in NYC!
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