ABOUT
Born, 1977 in United States
Resides and works in Kansas City
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.
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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.
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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.
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The individuals featured in this series are carefully chosen, for their significant contributions and cultural impact. From influential musicians and groundbreaking artists to social activists and political figures, each portrait tells a story of resilience, creativity, and social change.
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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
Solo Exhibitions (Selected)
2024
Legally Brewed - Norman, OK
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2023
Viridian Coffee - Chickasha, OK
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2022
Viridian Coffee - ​Chickasha, OK
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2018
Waters Edge Winery - ​Oklahoma City, OK
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Group Exhibitions (Selected)
2024
Art WestPort - Kansas City, MO
Tulsa Diamond House Grove, OK
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2023
Jones Gallery Kansas City, KS​
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2022
View 28, Oklahoma City
2020
Carpe Artem Gallery, Oklahoma City​
Steve Liggett Studio, Tulsa, OK
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2019
Steve Liggett Studio, Tulsa, OK
A.C.T. Gallery, Tahlequah, OK
Water's Edge Winery - OKC
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​1997
Congressional Art Competition, Washington, D.C. -"Victory Touchdown" ​​
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1996
Congressional Art Competition, Salem, Oregon -"Victory Touchdown"​
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1995
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR​​
Juried Art Fairs
2024
Art Westport​
Kansas City, MO​
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Press & Publications (Selected)
Publication as Author
Matthew R. Paden, The Invisible Hand: How Wealthy Collectors Are Rigging the Art Market - Blog (Opinion) Friday, July 26th 2024
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Matthew R. Paden, The Banksy Effect: Decoding the Phenomenon of Street Art's Enigmatic Superstar - Blog (Opinion) Saturday, July 27th 2024
Collections
"Inspired," 10-Piece Series
Trever Yarrish, ​Grants Pass, OR
Awards
2003
Art Institute,
Best In Show​​
2002
Art Institute,
2nd Place
1997
Congressional Art Competition
Salem, OR - First Place ​
1995
Oregon State University
Honorable Mention
Speaking Engagements (Selected)
2024
"Spontaneous Realism," Kansas City Artist Coalition - Kansas City, MO
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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