​

Martin Barooshian (1929-2022), an eminent American painter and printmaker, embarked on a prolific 70-year journey across various artistic realms. His body of work transcends conventional boundaries, seamlessly interweaving Symbolist, Expressionist, Dadaist, Romantic, Primitive, and Renaissance influences. Despite defying categorization, Barooshian identified with Abstract Biomorphic Surrealism, unveiling his mature biomorphic style in the late 1950s. His enigmatic dreamscapes delve into the intricacies of form, interconnections among individuals, and humanity‘s cosmic position.​ Barooshian‘s hallmark lies in densely populated visual landscapes, vibrant color palettes, and compositions that harmonize organic motifs with geometric precision. His meticulous craftsmanship shines through repetitive patterns, transforming chaos into harmony and beauty. Renowned as both a technician and innovator, Barooshian pioneered viscosity printing techniques, elevating the art form to new heights. His dynamic works, known for bold composition, intricate linework, and fearless color palette, are at once deeply personal and universal, inviting the viewer to interpret and explore, experiencing wonder and introspection.

​

Born in Chelsea, MA, Barooshian‘s artistic education spanned the globe, encompassing studies in the United States, France, England, India, and the Middle East. He honed his skills under the tutelage of luminaries such as Karl Zerbe, Ture Bengtz, Richard C. Bartlett, Gaston Dorfinant, Jean Pons, and Stanley William Hayter (Atelier 17). Barooshian‘s academic achievements include diplomas from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, a Bachelor of Science in Education from Tufts University, and a Master of Arts in Art History from Boston University.​

 

In her review of a retrospective of Barooshian’s work, Boston Globe art critic Cate McQuaid described him as someone who was “not a follower of fashions” and who instead “has always defined his own style…against the grain of the art scene.” Barooshian seamlessly blended an eclectic mix of influences from both art history and contemporary culture to craft a unique artistic vision. McQuaid characterized his biomorphic surrealist style as a blend of “Pablo Picasso meets Stan Lee.”

​

As a former president of the Society of American Graphic Artists, Barooshian left an indelible mark on the art world, earning global acclaim through hundreds of exhibitions and over 50 solo showcases. His works grace prestigious museum collections worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), the National Gallery of Art, the Library of Congress, and the Addison Gallery of American Art. Among his accolades are awards from esteemed institutions such as the National Academy of Design, the Library of Congress, and the Currier Gallery.

​

The Martin Barooshian Artwork Trust remains dedicated to upholding his legacy and safeguarding his artistic creations for worldwide admiration. As we move forward, expect exciting advancements including additions to museums and galleries, and an upcoming documentary.