The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

Welcome to a world of insightful discussions on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, featuring host Rob Lee and our guest Sebastian Martorana, a Baltimore-based artist known for his intricate stone sculptures, which often incorporate salvaged materials from historic architecture. With over fifteen years of experience, he has honed his skills in the art of carving. Sebastian holds a BFA in illustration from Syracuse University and pursued further studies at the Maryland Institute College of Art’s Rinehart School of Sculpture. He operates from his studio at Hilgartner Natural Stone Company, undertaking private commissions and commercial projects. His impressive portfolio includes contributions to significant landmarks like the United States Senate, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the National Basilica. Additionally, Sebastian's work is part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery collection. As an adjunct faculty member at the Maryland Institute College of Art and a presenter for the American Craft Council, he actively contributes to artistic education and discourse. Through his transformative approach, Sebastian challenges traditional perceptions by turning rigid materials into dynamic forms that showcase his remarkable craftsmanship.

In this episode, we uncover:

  • The World of Stone Sculpting with Baltimore-based Artist Sebastian Martarana.
  • From Illustration to Italy: Unveiling Sebastian Martarana's Journey into Stone Sculpture.
  • The Illusion of Softness: Unraveling Texture Play in Sebastian Martarana's Stone Creations.
  • Beyond the Visual: How Sebastian Martarana Crafts a Multi-Sensory Encounter in Stone Art.
  • The Art of Patience: Delving into Sebastian Martarana's Meticulous Approach to Sculpting.
  • Bridging Boundaries: Sebastian Martarana's Dual Canvas of Institutional Projects and Artistic Pursuits.

Sebastian Martarana, a Baltimore-based sculptor, specializes in stone works that defy expectations. With an initial interest in art and illustration, his love for sculpting evolved over time. After studying illustration in undergrad, he pursued stone sculpture during his time in Italy and later honed his craft at the Reinhardt School of Sculpture. Sebastian now operates from Hillgartner Natural Stone as a freelance artist. His creations intricately manipulate stone to resemble soft textures, offering a unique sensory experience. Fueled by meticulous focus, he dedicates hours to perfecting details, a trait essential in his precision-driven field. From institutional projects to personal endeavors, Sebastian excels in delivering thought-provoking sculptural art.


Mentioned in this episode:
Sebastian Martorana


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The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). 

Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:
  • Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
  • Edited by Daniel Alexis
  • Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor
Photos:
  • Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
  • Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.
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Creators and Guests

Host
Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.
Guest
Sebastian Martorana
stone sculptor based in Baltimore, MD

What is The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter?

The Truth In This Art with Rob Lee is a Baltimore-based arts and culture podcast where independent journalist Rob Lee goes beyond the highlight reel to uncover the truth behind the work—the creative process, the choices, and the stories that shape the people who make it. Through thoughtful conversations with emerging and established photographers, filmmakers, designers, musicians, chefs, writers, and other creative voices, each episode explores how artists build sustainable practices, stay connected to their communities, and create work that reflects the world around them. More than interviews, these are stories about what it takes to build a creative life—the challenges, choices, and experiences that make art matter. For makers, culture lovers, and the creatively curious.

Brief summary of episode:

Sebastian Martorana is an artist living and working in Baltimore, Maryland. For over fifteen years, Sebastian has focused on the art of carving. Much of the material used for his sculptures was salvaged from Baltimore’s historic, though often discarded, architecture. He received his BFA in illustration from Syracuse University, after which he became a full-time apprentice in a stone shop outside Washington, DC. He earned his MFA at the Maryland Institute College of Art’s Rinehart School of Sculpture.

Sebastian works on private commissions and commercial projects from his studio in the Hilgartner Natural Stone Company. His body work includes projects for the United States Senate, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, the National Basilica in Baltimore, the Eisenhower Memorial in Washington, DC and the United States Federal Reserve. He is an adjunct faculty member at the Maryland Institute College of Art and a repeat presenter for the American Craft Council. Sebastian’s work is included in the permanent collections of museums including the Smithsonian American Art museum’s Renwick Gallery, which acquired his sculpture featured in their 40 under 40: Craft Futures exhibition.

The Truth In This Art
The Truth In This Art is a podcast interview series supporting vibrancy and development of Baltimore & beyond's arts and culture.

Mentioned in this episode:
Sebastian Martorana

To find more amazing stories from the artist and entrepreneurial scenes in & around Baltimore, check out my episode directory.

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