Born in Nigeria, Fred Martins is a versatile self-taught artist. Visual artist, photographer and artistic director, he creates a socially conscious work of art.

Whether it is his collection of afro – combs on an orange background or his collection of butterflies or animals, his work is a blend of popular culture, sociology and politics.

His afro-combs on an orange background represent icons of African-American and African culture. The Afro comb became a provocative symbol in the 1970s when his iconography evolved into a black fist.

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In reference to protest movements, notably that of the Black Panthers. The comb is also a symbol of black pride.

Fred Martins shows his latest collection of politically charged art in a gallery in the United States.

FRED MARTINS - AfroCombs - 1

The art series “Black, Orange and Freedom” was created “to awaken the memory of the heroes who inspire many people today. This new project celebrates African activists, jailed for attempting to enforce freedom and fairness for Africans, Afro black combs are arranged on an orange background (chosen for a reminder of the used color prison) to signify the imprisonment of activists during their struggle for freedom and equity for Africans symbolized by the “Afro comb.” The Martins series features portraits of African heroes such as Nelson Mandela, Patrice Lumumba and Fela Kuti as well as African-American figures like Marcus Garvey and Martin Luther King Jr.

For the second chapter of Orange, Black And Freedom, Fred has decided to produce 3D live sculptures of these combs to serve as office or interior wall decorations for homes, galleries and museums and also smaller practical versions.

Pieces at the Gallery


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