Defenders, Contemporary Painting Painting

"Defenders" is an abstract oil painting by contemporary artist Matt Higgins, whose work often explores abstracted landscapes, a recurring theme throughout his career. Initially trained in plein air painting from observation, Higgins shifted his focus in grad school to studio painting, where materials, surface texture, collage, and composition took precedence over representational imagery. In this piece, Higgins employed a complex, layered process, building up oil paint, scraping it down, adding collaged canvas elements, and adjusting the composition over time. The resulting landscape is intentionally open to interpretation, with forms that might suggest trees, architectural elements, or even figures. The painting is created on unstretched canvas and ships rolled in a tube. To hang it, a few small nails in the top and corners will support it without obstructing the artwork. For those interested in framing, a professional framer can offer various options, though this would incur an additional cost, which can be arranged locally. Suggestions for framing can be provided if needed. Matt Higgins b. 1987 is an artist and art professor who lives and works in Philadelphia, Pa. He maintains a regular studio practice in the Fishtown neighborhood focusing on painting in a variety of styles and bodies of work. His work is included in numerous private collections and has been included in a wide range of interior design projects including residential properties, corporations, and hotels.