THE ART OF MATTHEW TORTI

Spanning nearly a decade, the three selected works encapsulate a journey of growth and exploration, from the evocative connection to nature's allure to the bold departure from established norms and the fearless experimentation with mixed media. The narrative is one of continual evolution, where each painting contributes a unique chapter to the artist's story, illustrating a relentless pursuit of creative excellence and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of art.

Revelations: EnchaNTED & AbhorEAL
2012; NYC 12 x 16
mixed media (twine, tack, Hindi store thank-you card, pin, spring, washer)
texture infused by mixed media

Nestled within the sylvan realm, an enduring sanctuary emerges, beckoning visitors into the heart of the forest. This artistic portrayal evokes a timeless refuge, where the observer consistently encounters the very essence of home. The nuanced interplay of elements captures the spirit of familiarity and belonging amid nature's embrace, inviting contemplation on the symbiotic relationship between the individual and the primal allure of the wooded expanse. The artist skillfully elicits a sense of perennial comfort, crafting an immersive narrative that resonates with the universal quest for a place of solace and belonging within the natural world.

Unnamed A
2021 ; Pittsburgh 16 x 21
Hand-stretched canvas featuring mixed media (string, acrylic; canvas on canvas).

The capstone piece, exploring brutalism, challenges conventional paint application on canvas. The deliberate strategic cuts in the canvas reveal hidden layers, offering a tactile and visual depth. The central theme, featuring a contemplative figure gazing downward, becomes a poignant symbol of departure from traditional artistic norms. The artwork skillfully blends innovation with introspection, inviting viewers to engage with the evolving narrative of artistic expression and bid farewell to established conventions.

Groundwater Movement 2006 -
2012 and 2014 12 x 16
a mixed-media (staples, metal rod, screws, plastic, rubber bands, three pins conveying defiance, incense, a plastic cylinder, a grouting tool, a polaroid photo, hair, acrylic, and ink)

Transcending conventional boundaries. Painted over an initial depiction of a machine replicating people, each layer adds complexity. The final flourish involves the pouring of paint and ink, resulting in a dynamic 12x16 canvas. This eclectic composition invites contemplation, challenging viewers to decipher its intricate layers and explore the fusion of diverse elements in the artistic process.