St. Martin de Porres

Quiet Miracle-Healer 1575–1639

Patronage Peru, Mixed Races, Social Justice, Animals, & Chores

Feast Day November 3

Martin was disowned by his Spanish father because he resembled his African mother. At a young age, Martin learned about medicine. He applied this knowledge with empathy as he cared for the sick at the Dominican Friary where he lived as a lay brother. His love extended through menial tasks like sweeping as well. At the friary, Martin created a wildlife refuge for any animal in need that crossed his path.

Small Snippet

Saint Martin, intercede to the Holy Ghost that I may have empathy to do what I can with my gifts in caring for those who come into my life.

Prayer

Artistic Process

It is quite difficult to find an image of Martin de Porres’ likeness that does him justice. I wanted to capture him most closely to what he looked like when he lived.

Cicero Moraes, a brazilian 3D self-taught artist and animator created a forensic recreation of Martin’s face, which helped me match him as best as I could.

Inspiration References

Dominicans typically have rosaries so I took a photo of mine to cut out in his image. Since Martin is patron of chores, and typically has a broom in his hand, I took a photo of my parents’ old fashioned sweeper broom.

Rosary & Broom

I chose to draw Peruvian hummingbirds and these four were my favorite references to work from. From top left to right: Oreotrochilus estella, Rare Koepcke's Hermit Hummingbird, Fiery Topaz, Heliomaster longirostris Long-billed Starthroat

Hummingbirds

In traditional images of Martin, a dog, cat, and mouse are seen drinking milk from the same dish in harmony. I wanted to harken to that image by having all three animals present in this depiction. Top left to right: Peruvian Inca Orchid Dog, Peruvian Mouse, kitten, and The endangered Andean Mountain Cat.

Cats, Dogs & Mice

Forget-Me-Nots are beautiful flowers that are a fantastic symbolism for Martin. They’re small, easily forgotten, but stand out because of their small contribution to the beauty of the garden. They don’t try too hard. They are simply helpful as they are in their perfect small size.