“I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life - and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.”
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
Published in Observica Magazine - 31st Issue - Special Edition 2025 article with watercolor painting of Nehemiah “No, I don’t wanna” as the center of the article. Per Observica, “an incredible recognition of your artistic talent and a celebration of the unique vision you bring to contemporary art.” (Will post link when issue is published April 5th)
Art Collectors Choice Awards 2025: Winner in 5 Categories - Category 3: Watercolor - Figure: 2ND PLACE tie: Nehemiah / No, I Don’t Wanna, Category 16: Floral - Not Realistic: 6TH Place tie: Night Bloom, Category 17: Floral - Realism: 4TH PLACE tie: Bearded Iris and 5TH PLACE tie: Cascading Orchids, Category 32: Portrait of Someone Not Famous: 3RD PLACE tie: Nehemiah / No, I Don’t Wanna, Category 37: 3RD PLACE tie: Rainbow Dew
3rd Annual Lazarus Excellence in Watercolor Show 2025 at TAG Gallery - “Orchid Lip, Labellum”
Circle Foundation for the Arts “Artist of the Year 2024” - Honorable Mention award: “Rainbow Dew”
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
TAG (The Artist Gallery) - 3rd Annual Shelly Lazarus Excellence in Watercolor Exhibition 2025: February 26 - March 21
The Huntington Beach Art Center: Celebrating 30 years of HBAC - Centered on the Center 2025: January 25 - March 29
Contemporary Art Gallery Online: 2021 Hispanic Heritage Month Group Exhibition
Artavita San Diego Group Exhibition - October 2019
Solo Exhibitions
Coming 2025