Martin Ramirez

A special bonus episode of the Between The Lines podcast, titled The Placer Life During World War II, offers a compelling look into the life and legacy of Martín Ramírez, the internationally celebrated self-taught artist who created hundreds of intricate drawings while institutionalized at the former DeWitt State Hospital in Placer County.

The episode features commentary from a leading expert on Ramírez's life and work, shedding light on the artist's journey from immigrant laborer in Jalisco, Mexico, to a visionary creator working under the constraints of displacement, isolation, and institutionalization.

Despite limited resources, Ramírez transformed scavenged materials-such as paper scraps and homemade adhesives-into some of the most captivating and enduring works of 20th-century outsider art. His drawings, rich with cultural symbolism and architectural precision, continue to inspire audiences worldwide.

Through historical context, personal stories, and a deeper exploration of Ramírez's time at DeWitt, the episode highlights the resilience, creativity, and humanity that defined his life and artistic legacy.

The episode is available now on all major podcast platforms.