Matthew Lee

mattartist@bellsouth.net

http://www.MATTHEWLEESTUDIO.COM

Artist Statement:
My work is about stepping into another dimension, losing myself in the interpretation of forms in nature through oil painting. It’s about balancing playful and creative interpretation with the structure of reality. When painting "en plein air" I look for a strong composition of shapes, contrasts, or linear designs. I try to capture the essence or spirit of a place through my brushwork and design. I’m inspired by artists who were able to make a deep connection with nature.  More than anything my art is about creating feeling in visual form. In the words of landscape painter John Constable: “painting is another word for feeling."

Biography:
Matthew Lee was born in Paris France to missionary parents who originated in Mississippi.  He spent his childhood years mostly in France with occasional visits to Mississippi.  He later attended Mississippi State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture and minor in Fine Art.  The rich culture of France was deeply imprinted on his life.  He recognized as a child that his great passion was drawing and painting, and began creating sketches at every opportunity.

He has combined his love for being in nature, and painting, with creating landscape paintings on location.  He works in oils on canvas and tries to convey the romance and beauty of what surrounds us through painting in a loose but realistic style. In addition to his interest in painting he is also a licensed architect and practiced architecture full time for 22 years prior to launching into the art profession.