About Peg Martinez (aka Square Peg)
I had a roundabout journey into the peep world. I was a psychiatric social worker in New Orleans for many years, until Hurricane Katrina led to occupational burnout. I taught myself fine woodworking, building intricate jewelry boxes and small furniture, primarily selling at regional art festivals for more than ten years.
And then in 2020, the COVID pandemic. Since all my shows were cancelled, I decided it was the perfect time to teach myself a new craft. Of course, it had to involve wood and the acquisition of new tools. Carving was the answer.
As we all know, you can teach yourself anything with YouTube videos. And the purchase of Keith Randich’s book “Carving the Little Guys” sealed the deal. I was smitten. The peeps were born. I had no intention of ever selling these little carvings, but I did start posting them on Facebook and Instagram. They provided a little humor and levity in a time when most posts concerned the pandemic and politics. The peeps developed a fan base, and now I am back to doing art festivals with them as the main attraction. I couldn’t be happier.
About the Peeps
Each peep starts out as a 1” x 1” x 2” piece of basswood, which in my case comes from Wisconsin. I primarily use only one knife for the whole carving…no chisels, gouges, or Dremel tools. Once carved, I dip the peep in linseed oil, paint with diluted acrylics, and spray with a clear varnish.
Awards
Eastern Shore Art Center Outdoor Art Show, Best in Sculpture, 2011
Greater Gulf Coast Art Festival, Judge’s Award, 2013
Three Rivers Art Festival, Merit Award in Wood, 2013
Kentucky Art Festival, Patron’s Award, 2014
Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Arts and Crafts , Award of Distinction, 2015
Three Rivers Art Festival, Award of Distinction in Wood, 2015
Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Arts and Crafts, Best in Show, 2016
Art on the Grand 2023, Outstanding New Artist
