Standing Firm | Leopard in Graphite

Standing Firm

$354.90
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Series: N/A

Medium: Graphite

Size: 11”x14”

Frame Included

 

Name: Standing Firm

Medium: Graphite on paper

Collection: Graphite Reverence

 

Description:

Standing Firm was drawn during one of the most difficult and defining moments in my life. It was 2021, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. My health was already fragile, and I had taken medical leave from Queen’s University, where I was studying medicine. When vaccine mandates were introduced, I faced intense pressure — not only to comply, but to submit without question. I was threatened with professionalism flags and the possibility of being barred from returning to school.

This leopard became my quiet protest — a symbol of dignity in stillness. There’s no aggression in its stance, no noise. Just clarity, calm, and an unshakable presence. Drawing it reminded me of my own right to stand firm, to trust my body, and to honor my boundaries even when the cost was high.

Part of the Graphite Reverence collection, Standing Firm is about staying rooted when everything around you demands that you bend. It’s a tribute to quiet strength, and to anyone who has held their ground in the face of fear, shame, or isolation.

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Welcome

Hi, I'm Martina

Canadian artist, wife, and mama of two little wild ones. My work is rooted in a longing for peace. It’s in the fleeting moments of creating that I feel closest to God—like something sacred is moving through the process, gently inviting me to listen, trust, and share.

Testimonials

★★★★★

There's something truly remarkable about Martina's work; the intention behind every brushstroke is so easy to see. When you take a step back to see the full painting is where you can see the story it tells and the layers that unfold. Her art doesn't just decorate a space, it speaks to you - and that's not something you can find in a store.

Caitlin Grundy
Thousand Islands, CA
★★★★★

The texture in Martina's paintings is so realistic and engrossing. Her choice of colours is always warm and vibrant. I love her paintings and have one on display in my main living room at home where everyone can see and enjoy it!

Kathleen MacArthur
Ottawa, CA
★★★★★

I can’t thank Martina enough for the incredible custom piece she painted for me. I commissioned a portrait of the moment I hit a personal best in the deadlift during a powerlifting competition. It was a moment that meant so much to me and she nailed it!

The way she captured my emotions, the intensity, and even the smallest details of my expression and posture was unbelievable. It’s more than just a drawing or painting—it’s a snapshot of one of the proudest moments in my competitive journey as an athlete.

From start to finish, Martina was professional, communicative, and made me eager to get my painting. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out, and it will be hung up in my gym forever.

If you’re thinking about commissioning something meaningful, I can’t recommend Martina enough.

Zach Morrow
Diamond Valley, CA
★★★★★

I have one of Martina's charcoal originals and it makes me feel hopeful for my future whenever I look at it. The Parisian scene makes me think of a warm summer night there under a red umbrella. I also have some of her abstracts and they make me feel stimulated and draw my eyes to the stunning pinks and golds. I feel free of the stresses of my life. Her artworks in my front hall way make me feel confident as I put on my shoes and start my day.

Jill Blancher
Thousand Islands, CA

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