The Muse at 269, Portobello Road, celebrates the sound and art of Martin A. Smith, composer, artist and curator, with a solo exhibition of his work. Where The Roses Grow opens from 17th – 26th July, 2025. A Private View will take place on Thursday, 17th July from 6 pm – 9 pm. A celebration event will take place on Saturday 26th July from 6 pm – 9 pm.

Over the last four decades, Smith’s expansive body of work has profoundly influenced London’s sonic art scene. His signature sound of rich ambience is well known within the music industry and by sound artists alike. Observing a need for a platform for the emergent group of sound artists, Smith commenced the series Sound Art at the Muse in 2005, one of the few galleries that continues to exhibit work by sonic artists in London today.

Where The Roses Grow focuses on Smith, as an artist, rather than his role as a collaborator and curator who modestly creates space for synergetic teamwork. The exhibition showcases selected works which highlight Smith’s skilful compositions, poetic soundscapes, video art and the pure generosity of his collaborative nature. 

Smith’s art is concerned with the spirit of place and the creation and reflection of atmosphere, and he states, ‘I create immersive, multi-layered pieces that reinterpret or enhance our emotional response to the nature of place, memory and environment.’

Throughout his career, Martin A. Smith’s benevolent collaborations are prolific: from musical scores for film and video art to immersive soundtracks for art installations, his work has been exhibited in London galleries GV Art, October Gallery and The Muse at 269, in theatres and on television. He has worked with numerous artists; including Eleonore Pironneau, Alex May and Ramuntcho Matta; musicians, such as Goldfrapp; film makers, composers, fashion designer Elizabeth Emanuel, poets and music producers, the latter often drawing upon Smith’s vast knowledge of atmospheric sound to create unique resonance within their own work.

Where The Roses Grow explores Martin A. Smith’s rich soundscapes and visual world, with works which conjure mood and emotion.