ABOUT MARTA LEON-BONILLA

Marta Leon-Bonilla is a Puerto Rican born artist renowned for her contribution to the visual arts as a photographer, particularly within the context of the Puerto Rican diaspora in New York City during the 1970s and early 1980s.

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She was a pivotal member of the “Comadres” (Godmothers), a collective of women artists. Their work explored themes of identity, culture, womanhood and spirituality, culminating in the 1980 exhibition “Comadres: A Collective Environmental Exhibit by Ten Women Artist” at El Museo del Barrio on Fifth Avenue in New York City.

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Through her ART, Marta continues to inspire with her powerful blend of faith and creativity.  Since the 1990s Marta, as a mixed media artist, is known for creating collages that blend various materials to tell stories inspired by verses from the Bible. Her work combines visual elements with spiritual themes, offering a contemporary interpretation of biblical narratives through artistic expression.

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ARTIST'S STATEMENT

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As a child, drawing brought me a sense of refuge. As a Fine Arts graduate, I pursued photography. I’ve always been an artist.

 

Everything changed after a car accident and three lower back surgeries. During that difficult season, I turned to mixed media/collage as a means of expression. I also found spiritual comfort in reading the Bible, where images began to appear in my mind as I read.

 

Today, I create mixed media/collage inspired by nature, faith, and the enduring search for hope and healing. My artwork is an invitation for others to experience that same sense of hope and restoration.