About 1856, after trying several trades unsuccessfully, Martin’s family finally allowed him to study painting with the encouragement of Erastus Dow Palmer. He moved to New York City in 1862 shortly after his marriage. In February 1864, he exhibited at the Exhibition of Paintings and Sculpture at the Studio of Palmer for the Benefit of the U.S. Sanitary Commission.
In the 1860s and 1870s he traveled often to the White Mountains and other parts of New England, making sketches and improving his art. In 1865 he opened his studio at the 10th Street Studio Building in New York City, which he kept until 1882. He was forced by circumstances to try illustrations and worked for Scribner’s Magazine and Century for a short time.
He exhibited at the National Academy of Design and the Brooklyn Art Association from 1861 to 1894. His art did not gain recognition until years after his death He died deeply in debt and virtually unrecognized.
Reference
New Hampshire Scenery