Matthew McGann

Bio

Matthew McGann is a multi-media artist that works in paint, pencil, markers, digital, and sculpture (metal & wood). Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1991, McGann moved to New York in 2010 and received his BA in Architecture from Pratt Institute. His current position as a Junior Architect in a NY architectural firm allows him to continue a passion for design, art and creativity that emerged early in life. His training in architecture fostered technical and theoretical competencies in materiality, light, and design that informs the content and form of his art practice.

Artist Statement

My artwork focuses on the relationship between form and function. This approach contributes to and draws from my architectural practice in which I am committed to exploring the interrelationship between subjects and the materiality of the spaces they occupy. My creative practice uses diverse material and design elements to re-narrate objects or moments in time that have personal significance. This process of re-narration provides an opportunity for two different kinds of exploration. First, it allows me to re-symbolize and re-purpose the object or moment – creating new meanings and functions for myself and for audience members. Second, it facilitates an exploration of materials – individually and in relationship to one another – and the opportunity to play with contrast and tension – dark vs. light, solid vs. translucent vs. transparent. This re-narration approach is the central methodology that informs my creative practice. I use it to craft a stream-lined aesthetic in producing re-narrations in simple but strong and deliberate forms and shapes.