Matt Whitney - Artist Statement

I believe that life has inherent spiritual elements, something that goes beyond what we just see happening in front of us. As an artist, I strive to capture the mysterious, spiritual elements of reality. I want to look beyond what happens immediately around me, and see into those events that shape our world, those interactions that help to define us as humanity. Our imaginations help to bridge the gap between what we see, and what we feel. If a photograph captures the immediate reality, I want a painting to capture the spiritual, the emotional, and the mysterious.

I create visual meditations that use figurative elements for my imagery; incorporating them as symbols and metaphors to further a painting. I try to keep the meanings behind the imagery as real as possible for the viewer, perhaps conveying an emotion but not necessarily trying to invoke one. Who we are, the things we build, the natural creation around us; all are fair game in my work.

Life at its basest level is in itself overwhelming. It can be difficult to “be still” and marvel at all that has come, and all that life has still to offer. I want my work to be the result of being still, at peace, and finding reflection in the experiences, relationships, and events that make up life.
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