Michael Mathews

With my current paintings I've adopted a method of working that mainly utilizes techniques of mixed media collage & gestural abstraction.
My approach to abstraction is mostly intuitive. Rather than seeking the "perfect" composition I gravitate towards randomness, loose symmetry & simple structures with mostly flat or textured geometric forms. For me this seems to echo a carefree childlike exploratory phase of mental building & development. I like to play with fragments & patterns which I move around & organize until the emergence of the "ethereal self". The final surfaces create tactile sensation while the abstraction offers some optical relief to our visually saturated experiences. Making this kind of art allows me to channel basic visual exploration, "imaginary memory" & automatic psychological spaces into a style that's inspired by post-minimalism, traditional collage & architecture. A strong sense of craftsmanship is also important to me.
I often think the mix between construction & deconstruction is an apt metaphor for the constant building up, breaking down & redefinition of the contemporary subject via endless screens, virtual spaces & surfaces. If my work objectivity ref...

1997 - 2002 - Bachelor of Fine Arts - Minneapolis College of Art & Design