Martel Chapman Marion Brown

Martel Chapman is a cubist painter who specializes in Jazz portraits. His style could not be better matched than in his painting of free saxophonist Marion Brown. Brown was a member of the New York Avant-garde along with Coltrane and Archie Shepp. All three saxophonists played on Coltrane’s landmark “Ascension” session, an album that brought a wider degree of acceptance for the free jazz movement.

Chapman became devoted to painting after hearing jazz in an almost “born again” style awakening…

I came across John Coltrane’s “Blue Train” re-issue in 1997. I did not realize that his music would change my life. I hadn’t recognized what artistry was until that point. I listened to the opening theme a dozen times on my way to work that day. A year later, I quit that job and decided that my main energy was going to be dedicated to the music of jazz and the individuals that created it.

Brown is a fitting subject for the Painted Note as well. He found musical inspiration in visual perceptions — particularly in the urban landscape. He discusses this connection in a 1967 film by Henry English entitled “You See What I’m Trying to Say.” Later in his career Brown became accomplished in the visual arts as well.

Martle Chapman: The Rhythmatic

To see more of Chapman’s work visit www.portraitsasjazz.com