Born in Wakefield, England, and raised in Glasgow, Martin Creed studied at the Slade School of Fine Art in London. He emerged as a prominent figure in the British art scene during the 1990s, gaining recognition for his practice of numbering his works sequentially, a system he has maintained throughout his career to emphasize the equality of his creative output.

Creed’s work frequently employs common materials—such as balloons, furniture, and architectural elements—to explore themes of repetition, simplicity, and the nature of art itself. His approach often blurs the lines between sculpture, performance, and music, reflecting a commitment to direct, often humorous, engagement with the viewer's environment.

His influence remains consistent within the contemporary art landscape, with his works frequently featured in major international galleries and institutions. His multidisciplinary output continues to bridge the gap between visual art and musical composition, maintaining his status as a key figure in conceptual minimalism.