So for the second installation in my “inspiration” series I have chosen the whimsical, wonderful, graphically pleasing art of Portland based artist Matte Stephens. Over the course of the past year, I have grown to love his style and I anxiously look forward to each update that pops up in my RSS feed reader.
He has been working as an artist since he graduated from high school and claims to have been self-sufficient as an artist ever since. Let me say I’m glad he never got a “real job.” He’s using the magnificent talents he’s been given. Matte has developed a very distinct style and his affection for lighthearted subject matter like birds, lions and his cat Simon make for a striking portfolio. His art is worthy of his full-time attention.
For me, it’s tough to describe art and I always have preferred to look at it than talk about it. Sometimes I feel as though art gets weighed down in intellectual discussion that people forget to enjoy the piece. Matte’s art is perfect for enjoying.
When I set out to be an artist full-time, one of my number one goals was personally responding to e-mails regarding my work. If someone takes the time to write in and say “Hey, I like your work” I think it’s only fair to write back a response. E-mail has made corresponding so lackadaisical that I find e-mails go by ignored. Now that I’ve started to receive responses and e-mails, I can see why it’s tougher to follow up, but I still take time each day to personally respond to everyone. Being an artist and being cordial and friendly can coexist. If I’m kind and share advice on what I’ve learned thus far (but not insider tips on technique, haha) I just never know what might come back to me.
It’s safe to say that Matte is a very cordial artist. He’s a good guy, responds quickly, and offers up great advice from the things he’s learned in his 15 years as an artist. So if you like his work, message him and let him know. Good feedback is what we strive for as an artist. I believe that Matte gets his fair share of love and his work is more than deserving off all the praise and more.
Matte’s Blog
Matte’s Etsy Shop. Support the arts, buy something from him. His gocco prints are sweet.
