VITAE
Born, 1977 in United States
Resides and works in Grove, Oklahoma
Matthew R. Paden, is an award-winning American artist. Working from his home studio; Paden specializes in a contemporary abstract style known as Spontaneous Realism. His larger-than-life portraits astonish in both private and public collections.
He approaches his subjects with as few preconceived notions as possible, allowing viewers the space to collaborate with the moment. Matt strives for honesty and to look at things as they are, without judgment. The result is something that is at once observant and intimate.
Paring down aesthetics, Paden relies on gestures, color, form, and composition to heighten the subtle nuances of people and places in a simple yet revealing style. It is this mix of intention and intuition that brings depth and mystery to his colorful, dynamic pieces, suggesting life beyond the canvas.
Paden's artistic journey commenced in 1997 during his senior year of high school, with his debut painting "Victory Touchdown," which garnered top accolades in Oregon before being displayed at the Nations Capitol for a year.
Artist Statement
"In my "Famous Faces" series, I explore the dynamic cultures of the sixties, seventies, and eighties through what I believe to be the iconic portraits of the eras. I paint in a contemporary abstract style known as Spontaneous Realism with acrylics and palette knives.
This method enables me to infuse bold, vivid colors and expressive textures, capturing the essence of my subjects in a manner that's both dynamic and captivating.
The individuals featured in this series are carefully chosen, each possessing a unique narrative and history that I believe is vital to share with younger generations.
For me, the eyes remain the focal point, serving as the gateway to the subject's soul. Through my artwork, I aim to ignite a revolution of appreciation for these iconic figures and their enduring impact on our cultural landscape."
— Matthew R. Paden
Education
2001-2004: BFA - Art Institute of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
(Selected) Solo Exhibitions
2024
Legally Brewed - Norman, OK
2023
Viridian Coffee - Chickasha, OK
2022
Viridian Coffee - Chickasha, OK
2018
Waters Edge Winery - Oklahoma City, OK
(Selected) Group Exhibitions
2024
Tulsa Diamond House Grove, OK
2023
Jones Gallery Kansas City, KS
2022
View 28, Oklahoma City
2020
Carpe Artem Gallery, Oklahoma City
Steve Liggett Studio, Tulsa, OK
2019
Steve Liggett Studio, Tulsa, OK
A.C.T. Gallery, Tahlequah, OK "Tri-County Art Show"
2003
Art Institute of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
2002
Art Institute of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ" Expressions of Blue"
1997
Congressional Art Competition, Washington, D.C. -"Victory Touchdown"
1996
Congressional Art Competition, Salem, Oregon -"Victory Touchdown"
1995
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
(Selected) Press & Publications
2024
Culver City, CA
2023
Kansas City, KS
2022
2019
London, England
Collections
"Inspired," 10-Piece Series
Trever Yarrish, Grants Pass, OR
Awards
2003
Art Institute, Phoenix, AZ
Best In Show
2002
Art Institute, Phoenix, AZ
2nd Place
1997
Congressional Art Competition
Salem, OR - First Place
1995
Oregon State University
Honorable Mention
Speaking Engagements
2023
Muskogee Art Guild Muskogee, OK
The Palette Art Gallery Grove, OK -
2021
Mid-Del Art Guild Oklahoma City
Carpe Artem Oklahoma City -
2020 Mid-Del Art Guild
Midwest City, Oklahoma
Muskogee Art Guild Muskogee, Oklahoma -
2019
A.C.T. Gallery Tahlequah, Oklahoma A.C.T. Gallery Tahlequah, Oklahoma
2009
Community College Colorado Denver, CO - October 2009
Notable Commissions
2018
"Untamed"
Absentee Shawnee Cultural Preservation Department
(Public)
Professional Service
2020 - 2021
1st. Vice President/Show Chair
MID-DEL ART GUILD
Professional Organizations
OVAC - Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition
Mid-Del Art Guild