We had the good fortune of connecting with Fox Martin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Fox, why did you pursue a creative career?
Living in the pursuit of art is just innate. Every time I’ve tried to step outside of that truth, it’s resulted in listlessness. Luckily, I can find the art in everything, whether it’s choosing an outfit or actually drawing and sewing one. I love to dance, and I love to sing badly, but what I always enjoy is telling a story. I don’t need to be visible to enjoy being part of a creative process… Aiding other people’s visions is fulfilling as well.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is flexible… I never would have guessed I would end up a performer. The simple version of what I do: I design concepts, sew costumes, and I perform in them. I also model — typically figure, and sometimes glamour or fashion. I also do aerial and pole performances, paint, draw, and dabble in photography. I’m really grateful for how many tools I have at my disposal for expression.

When I was studying fashion design in undergrad, I really had no concept of what I wanted to do with my life. My family was definitely trying to aim me in another direction, and I briefly dabbled on a few other paths. I’m lucky that those two years actually helped prepare me for a lot of the creative work I do today. It certainly wasn’t easy, dealing with a lot of the stigma tied to my public image. I received so much brutal rejection in my personal life because of it. I knew so few people doing what I do that I became very compartmentalized. As time has passed, society has evolved, with age has come more confidence, and I’m more open about what I do. I’m not here by mistake.

Lessons I’ve learned along the way: 1. Doing things on your own is definitely possible, but it’s also harder. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others. Sometimes a job should be just a job, but sometimes opening yourself up to other weirdos can open you to so many amazing possibilities — it can also keep you safe. 2. Don’t let age define your benchmarks. There is life after your 20s. 3. You don’t have to monetize everything. There are things that you can do just for you.

If I wanted the world to know anything about me, it’s that I am not just the image I relay, and that goes for every person you see performing or modeling. As far as my brand goes, I want people to know that I love my job(s). Even if they don’t represent all of me, they represent a significant part of my identity as an artist.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Holy Matcha Oscars Mexican Seafood
La Jolla (to see the sea lions)
Black’s Beach (the clothing optional area)

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My grandmother was the first person that made me feel like I wasn’t a total weirdo, Bolt3Gs encouraged me to embrace public expression, and my collaboration with One Apparatus and Graffick brought me to San Diego. Thank you so much, everyone!

Instagram: @foxemartin

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTNAt2RtgYOc7WSVmNtdaWQ

Other: foxemartin@gmail.com

Image Credits
Maze Studio

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