ABOUT MATT

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Born in Exeter, Matt’s work is deeply inspired by the ever-changing coastlines of Devon and Cornwall. A self-taught artist, he blends traditional oil painting techniques with a contemporary, expressive style. His seascapes explore the space between realism and semi-abstraction, where forms fragment and emerge through a painterly visual language that evokes both the spirit and emotion of place.

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The sea, with its shifting moods and colours, is a constant source of inspiration. Whether calm or chaotic, it mirrors the complexities of the landscape and the human experience. Immersed in the rhythms of the natural world, Matt seeks to convey more than just a visual likeness.

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“I aim to capture the essence of a place, not just its appearance. My work is an emotional response to the landscape and the movement of the sea - expressing the raw beauty and unpredictability of nature. With its ever-changing light, atmosphere, and the interaction between land and sea, the ocean is alive with character.”

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Matt’s creative process begins with tonal sketches to establish composition, followed by layered oil painting on board. Mark-making is central to his practice - inviting viewers to engage both with the intricate details up close and the broader landscape from a distance. This layered approach allows for multiple levels of interpretation and emotional connection.

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In recognition of his achievements, Matt was elected an Academician of the South West Academy in January 2021.

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"The heart of man is very much like the sea, it has its storms, it has its tides and in its depths it has its pearls too." — Vincent van Gogh

 

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