I render mythopoeic images from my unconscious mind using a technique I term “Constellationism”, wherein I randomly throw ink onto folded paper and blot it repeatedly until I spontaneously see an image; similar to making a the Rorschach Test ink blot. I then enhance that image by connecting the dots, painting, and line work to ensure that others see what I saw in the chaos.
My efforts result in dreamlike, archetypal portraiture that blurs the lines between art, depth psychology, and shamanism.
Because the subject matter is not predetermined, I am always surprised and intrigued by what emerges; creating a piece always provides an opportunity for self-exploration.
Whereas ancient civilizations found forms in the night sky and attributed their gods and heroes to them, I create constellations using the stars that occupy my own, inner firmament and identify the heroes, demons, and other characters of my unconscious.
What I find are these curious and delicate figures, like fossilized dreams, and I share them with you.
-Matthew Gantt
The Last Of Ophelia | 2014