Matt
Taylor-Multimedia Artist
What is the
theme of your work?
That’s a tough question to answer because a lot of
time I let the work dictate the theme while I’m creating it. There are some
pieces that I make with a concept in mind, but for the most part when I start
creating a piece, I lay down some initial line work and then let it go from
there. It’s fascinating for me to see what kind of work I end up with when I
don’t go into making it with a preconceived idea. I will say, however, that the
fact that I’m a graphic designer by trade influences the way I make my work. I
can’t help looking at either a blank canvas or wall as though it’s a page
layout. My knowledge of design does have a say in how the work is created.
What
influences your work?
Nature, especially patterns that I see in nature. Actually,
nature does tie into the fact that my work often doesn’t have a preconceived
theme. When a plant grows, it’s going to do what it’s meant to do, but there is
also some imperfection in the growing process. I’m interested in the organics
of existence, and how things in nature can be so different from each other and
often not replicated. Nature is always regenerating-building on top of itself.
I am also influenced by the compositions that are found in nature as well.
What are
your goals for your artwork?
My main goal lately has been to take on more jobs
where the client understands my form of art making and seeks me out for my
style and vision. For years, I’ve done design work for clients-making work that
suits their needs and fulfills their projects. But now, I’m starting to get
hired for my vision, I’m getting paid to make my artwork, which is how I want
to keep on working.
What are
your thoughts on the Toledo art scene?
Toledo is full of amazing artists and I am grateful
that I am around them and that I call this city my home. I think the art scene
has been shifting in the past few years. There are more faces than ever before.
I think Toledo is starting to prove itself as a viable arts scene, so much that
art-college graduates move to downtown Toledo and want to give it a try instead
of immediately moving to a bigger city. Festivals like Artomatic get bigger
every year. I think Toledo is going to keep on moving in the right direction.