Tree

Matt Eaton’s latest work, showing at 323East until December 2,  continues his process-heavy journey into abstraction. Much more than just pretty colors and shapes, the work is deeply reflective of its creator and provides a better glimpse of the artist than a photograph or written description could. Each piece is spray painted on wood (yes, spray paint, a connection to his graffiti past) layer upon layer of floral motif, typography, and abstract shaping, and then those layers are sanded, new layers added, more sanding, more layers… such that each composition is comprised of soft-edged, unreproducible windows into the past, into his own preoccupations, into the patterns of his own human story. The pieces are given single word names, such as “hell,” “bridge,” “lovers,” and “mean.” They are each unique and full of their own complexities, but definitely connected and familiar, and they are each beautiful. The show also features a collection of photographs, more literal glimpses into Matt’s life and travels.

The opening for the show on November 6 was a packed affair that included Ghostly International favorite Tadd Mullinix behind turn tables. Guests of the narrow gallery spilled onto the street to chat and take in one of the season’s last good nights to be out in the weather. Matt is a soft spoken and gentle figure, carrying a sort of calmness that belies the intensity behind the process of his work, and the evening took on his chilled-out and friendly coolness.  If you missed the opening, there is still time to check out the show and pick up one of the few remaining pieces for sale.

Matt was kind enough to provide even more insight into what he’s really about by answering our famous Four Questions.

Why Detroit?

“why not detroit? i love it here. i have deep family roots here and detroit has gifted me with some of the most wonderful and interesting friends i have. the landscape is inspiring, the people are undeniably fascinating and surprisingly friendly. i love bringing people to detroit that havent been here before but have only heard stories. detroit is filled with treasures, not decay. its hard to concentrate on the negative when you are confronted with such an amazing variety of intelligent creative people.”

Lovers

Why the art you create?

“though i love drawing and painting from reality and using my imagination figuratively, i never feel like im being fully constructive. i always feel like im cheating myself. i cant really explain it but i get so much more excitement from the unknown and unplanned that i inevitably end up in the realm of abstraction. its easier for me to communicate my emotions through shapes, textures and colors. i love writing and lettering as well so it was also a way for me to incorporate that into my paintings in a more personal way. i will definitely continue to explore this process, as i have for years, i just dont know where it will end up, and i like that.”

What is Detroit’s future?

“i think the future of detroit is now, as it always is. if people dont start making changes and adjusting peoples perceptions now then it stays the way it is. sometimes i think people are scared to take a chance on detroit, and i dont blame them really, i mean, its not like im looking at pittsburg and thinking ‘hhmmm, maybe i should open up a business there’. it cant be rescued by outsiders. the only way for detroit to survive is to embrace what we already have, and that is the people. by providing these hard working passionate people with the tools and inspiration to do great things there is no limit to how much detroit can grow. things like funding the arts and education should be a top priority for detroit. what kind of city doesnt recognize the contributions of its citizens to the world by rewarding them with the ability to continue making great things happen (im looking at you incestuous, nepotistic, overly bureaucratic local government)? loosen your belt and take some chances.”

What is the future of art in Detroit?

“man, there is no limit to what detroit can do artistically. painters, industrial designers, actors, poets, musicians etc…this city is FULL of them. give them an excuse to be prolific and useful and see what happens. great things will happen. we need funding for more public art, more public music, better arts education. letting the youth know that it is available to them that they can do all these wonderful things that are among the oldest trades of mankind itself. the ability to use your mind and translate your emotions and experiences into song or dance or sculpture is essential for the survival of our city, and our species. give the children art and they will reward you with their imaginations. i firmly believe this.”

We firmly believe you, Matt Eaton.

Matt Eaton

“I Think We Could Get Along” November 6 – December 2, 2010
323East Gallery
323 E. Fourth Street
Royal Oak, MI 48067

866-756-6538