Jessica Martin | The Dirty Painter

visual artist

The Dirty Painter, AKA artist Jessica Martin, paints solely using mud and water. ‘The Dirty Painter’ was born out of a need to be both creative and sustainable, to become as low impact as possible and still make beautiful art.

“I collect small samples of mud and clays from the parks and woodland near my home to paint with. I work with natural materials including paper, card and linen, with the only addition being water.

My work marries my deep love of art and creativity with a fierce passion for the protection and preservation of the natural world. My paintings act as quiet activism; demonstrating that there are alternatives out there, if only we look for them. By reducing the chemicals, toxins and plastics in my own practice, I hope to encourage others to look at ways to do the same.

As I continue to strive to live as sustainably as possible, I see my artwork as a tool for exploration, possibility and education. The price of beautiful art doesn’t have to cost the earth.”

Current 30 Under 30 Climate Change Makers Programme 2026 cohort member.

Member of the Green Arts NI network, AND Arts Network and Visual Artists Ireland

Email- thedirtypainter@outlook.com