21 Under 31: Young Artists to Watch in 2013 | Holly Mathews

California

Art Education: Bachelor’s degree of fine arts in painting from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

Style: Contemporary realism.

Creative Spark: I don’t know if there is a single spark. Rather, my work is an ongoing series of experiments—learning to depict the human experience in a unique way and in my own voice.

One Thing Most People Don’t Know About You: I am a night owl. I do all my best work and have my biggest eureka moments when the rest of the world (at least in my time zone) is still, dark, and quiet.

Best Advice Received: Sometimes what you don’t paint is as important as what you do paint.

Mantra or Motto You Live By: From Nelson Mandela: “There is no passion to be found in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” From Eleanor Roosevelt: “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”

Favorite Studio Music: Honestly, it depends on my mood. I currently have Atoms for Peace, The National, Beach House, and Interpol on a solid rotation.

Favorite Work by Another Artist: I could no sooner choose a favorite star in the heavens. But some of my favorite contemporary painters and biggest influences on my work are Daniel Sprick, Carl Dobsky, Scott Fraser, and Adam Forfang.

Price Range: $300 to $1,500.

Representation: www.hollymathews.net

 

Featured in the September 2013 issue of Southwest Art magazine–click below to purchase:
Southwest Art September 2013 print issue or digital download
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