Matt Holmes

I am interested in the emotional connection that forms between the viewer and the piece of art. Therefore, everything i create aims to connect with people on the most elemental of levels, addressing basic human instincts and emotions through the use of primal, and often forceful, patterns and motifs.

I attempt to explore how and why this bond occurs; how much the viewer is influenced by the name of a painting, the subject matter, the colours used, and the style of painting.

In my 'Composition' series, i wanted to provoke a reaction in the viewer, even though the paintings themselves are devoid of any actual subject matter. Instead by concerning myself solely with the physical painting process, the viewer is free to find their own personal connection to the piece, one not influenced by any preconceived thoughts or ideas.

Though spontaneous in appearance, the pieces are actually considered and time consuming. Layer upon layer of paint is applied, each meticulously scraped and dragged along the canvas leaving residue of the previous colour to merge, bind and separate with its successor. Knife edges, brush handles and rulers are used to gently prize the surface apart, before sponges and brush strokes close it again in an unfa...

Studied A Level art, history, Drama & English Language at Harrogate Grammar School before going on to study Art History at The University of Surrey Roehampton.