Veteran artist Brian Mathus opened an exhibition at the Middletown Arts Center where enthusiasts can see his latest creations for the first time. The Oregon-native’s work will be on display until April 19. He’s also scheduled to give an exclusive artist’s talk to share his wealth of experience while painting in front of a live audience.
“The reception so far has been very positive,” Mathus told The Clarion. “I’ve found that when you focus on art that appeals to you, the people who truly love your work will come out and we’ve seen that in Middletown.”
“Mixed Signals” is the fourth time the artist’s work ahs been exhibited this year. It follows a strong showing at the Art Noire showcase last February. There, at the Springfield Museum of Art, his work was exhibited alongside Boy Blue and ShoNobi world.
“This exhibition kind of felt like a senior thesis. It was the first time I’ve worked to create this kind of series,” said Mathus.
“Early in my career I showed my work at cafes and frame shops. Back then everything felt rushed, lacked depth, yet still held personal meaning for me. I would let my subconscious spill out in art-form. These days, I have a much bigger oeuvre, much more to pull from. I’m not just making a composition on the surface but also working to give each piece more depth, mental and otherwise,” he added.
Art-aficionados can see Mathus in person on April 19 from 6-8 p.m. at the Middletown Arts Center. His painting demonstration and Q/A session promises to be a casual affair where the viewers can gain insight from Mathus’ decades-long career.
Words and photos by Ismael David Mujahid, Executive Editor