Patrick Martinez

L.A.-based Patrick Martinez has been steadily progressing over the last few years.

He came to widespread attention with a neon work reading "LESS DRAKE, MORE TUPAC." Then, rather than succumb to easy pop culture spins, continued to push his unique investigation of the American dream and marginal communities. Martinez collaborated with Maybach Music's Stalley for the cover of Savage Journey to the American Dream in early 2012, and rounded out the year with solo showings in L.A. and Dallas. Bigger and better is expected for 2013.