Shantell Martin Outlines Her 10 Residence Necessities

AD presents the Clever Guest Edit, a shopping series in which our favorite design enthusiasts share the products and collectibles that bring their homes to life. This week’s special guest is the visual artist Shantell Martin. Get the exclusive on what’s at the top of her wish list here, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Clever newsletter to get these picks delivered straight to your inbox each month.

As a cultural facilitator and innovator, Shantell Martin is all about the pursuit of creative ventures. Earlier this year, the groundbreaking artist delved into the metaverse with Potion Bottles for Some.place’s collection. Kites, her latest collaboration with Boston Ballet, is a celebration of memory through contemporary movement. Part of the ChoreograpHer program, the choreographed ballet explores the creation of new landscapes of time, emotion, and lines.

When it comes to home decor, Shantell isn’t afraid to think outside the box and explore the dimensions of an interior. Although she’s widely known for her signature black-and-white drawings, sketches, and murals, you might be surprised to see playful pops of color throughout her domestic spaces in New York City and Los Angeles. “Interior design for me is really personal,” she explains. “I really like to be very organized and functional while at the same time finding unique and fun ways to explore and highlight environments.” 

Given that Shantell’s artwork challenges viewers to disconnect objects of admiration from their inception, it makes sense that the pieces she surrounds herself with would be captivating as well. Amidst her busy schedule, Shantell carved out some time to share the 10 items that make her feel the most at home.

“I recently got a place in L.A. and really love my Floyd table. It’s fresh, clean, and I really appreciate Floyd’s ethos around sustainability.”

“I’m not a cook, but I love this pan so much. It never burns, and it’s so easy to clean. I’m a big fan of Caraway’s color palette.”

“I met Cole, the founder of Ugly Rugly, a while ago. He and his wife Lauren make wonderfully fun, odd, wildly shaped, and completely unique rugs. Of course, being on the West Coast has inspired me to embrace more color, so this one is one of my favorites.”

“Great bedding is always an easy way to bring in color and patterns into your home. Love these ones by Dusen Dusen.”

“We tried multiple dog beds before discovering Zee Dog. Right off the bat, our dog Blanche was in love with it, and now all her friends are too.”

“My Theory 11 Cards might be my favorite object that I’ve been able to create within a collaboration. These ones are signed and make the perfect gift, any time of year.”

“This keeps me organized and puts a smile on my face. [Adam J. Kurtz is] an incredible artist and I’m always inspired by what he creates.”

“Mirrors are such a great way to add light and dimension to space. I love this one because it also feels a bit like a sculpture.”

“I don’t wear too much jewelry, but I’m always in awe of what Sadé creates. Her Heirloom rings are just that… Pieces you want to leave behind as a part of your legacy.”

“I’ve really begun to focus on my Shantell apparel collection over the last year or so. After working with other brands on collaborations, it felt like a natural evolution. I’ve been living in my Bird Boat crewneck, especially in L.A. where that’s kind of all you need during the winter months.”