The Spring Auction 2020

Matt Macken gathers inspiration from his personal experiences, social media inboxes, photographs, dating app profiles and online conversations with strangers - James is a portrait of a friend.

This enigmatic portrait is full of contrasts. James invites attention but it seems to come with a warning. He looks out of the painting with a curious tilt of the head, whilst his expression remains defensive. His grasp of the flowers is both possessive and nonchalant.

Matt Macken is interested in presenting the mental state of his figures and in a world where sexual interaction is sought out over digital platforms there is a lot to explore.

"I’m particularly interested in male figures and exploring sexuality, masculinity and identity. Figures in my work may appear uneasy and unsettled to audiences whilst also being sexually suggestive." 

Accolades

Solo Exhibitions: Now Here is My Plan, I Will do Anything You Say, Centrespace, Bristol 2015

Group Exhibitions: And What?, Archive Gallery, London 2020.