Daria Martin

Daria Martin is a British-American artist and filmmaker renowned for her short films that intricately explore themes of memory, dreams, and human psychology. Born in 1973 in San Francisco, Martin creates visually compelling works that blend performance, art history, and surreal imagery, drawing on both personal and collective experiences. Her films often utilize 16mm film, embracing the tactile and immersive qualities of the medium to evoke a sense of nostalgia and intimacy. Through her distinctive style, Martin has developed a reputation for producing highly atmospheric, dreamlike films that challenge viewers to reflect on the subconscious mind and emotional memory.One of the central themes in Martin’s work is the exploration of how memory and perception shape our experiences. In At The Threshold (2015), she investigates the phenomenon of mirror-touch synesthesia, a condition in which individuals feel the sensations they observe happening to others. The film draws on both scientific inquiry and personal narratives, blending reenactments and choreographed movements to explore empathy and sensory experience. This work exemplifies her interest in the intersection of art and neuroscience, highlighting her ability to explore complex psychological themes through rich visual storytelling.Martin’s films are often characterized by their meticulously composed sets, surreal aesthetics, and a delicate balance between abstraction and narrative. She frequently collaborates with dancers, actors, and performers, creating films that feel both theatrical and cinematic. Her 2019 film A Hunger Artist, inspired by Franz Kafka's short story of the same name, examines the relationship between suffering, performance, and the search for meaning, exploring existential themes while immersing viewers in a stylized, evocative visual world.In addition to her exploration of the human psyche, Martin’s work draws heavily on art history, theater, and cultural references, with influences ranging from surrealism to experimental film. Her use of 16mm film reflects a dedication to the physicality of the medium, using its texture and grain to create a dreamlike quality that amplifies the emotional and psychological depth of her narratives. Through her precise visual language, Martin crafts films that evoke a sense of timelessness, while also addressing contemporary issues such as empathy, identity, and trauma.Daria Martin’s work has been exhibited internationally at prestigious venues including the Tate Modern, the Venice Biennale, and the New Museum in New York. Her films are celebrated for their intellectual depth, emotional resonance, and distinctive blend of visual beauty and psychological inquiry. By combining the art of filmmaking with a deep exploration of the human experience, Martin has established herself as a leading voice in contemporary art and experimental film.