Meet Artist Matthew
Matthew is an artist whose oil paintings serve as a visual autobiography, reflecting his life’s journey and inner experiences. Born in Florida and raised in New York from the age of two, Matthew earned a degree in art history and political science from Fordham University. His work is deeply shaped by his lived experience with cerebral palsy and by the ongoing dialogue between his physical reality and society’s perceptions of disability.
As a child, Matthew spent hours organizing his toy cars, sparking a fascination with expressive color and shape, interests that continue to appear in his ‘Cars’ series. His pop art paintings incorporate personal objects, such as syringes, to symbolize healing, resilience, and identity. In his ‘Streams’ series, flowing and divided forms visually articulate the tension he experiences between the disabled and non-disabled worlds.
Matthew’s artistic practice is a testament to his introspection, using symbolism to communicate complex personal narratives and universal themes. Through his work, he invites viewers to engage with his story, cultivating empathy and understanding across diverse experiences.
A statement from Matthew…
Life is challenging — yet beautiful. This duality is the essence of what I explore in my art, which exists in a flow between two ethereal worlds: abstract and impressionistic. I combine different textures, colors, and forms to create unique, imaginative landscapes, seascapes, and botanicals, endlessly inspired by nature’s beauty.
After graduating from Fordham University with a degree in art history and political science, I decided to pursue my career as a full-time artist. Working within my own physical limitations, caused by cerebral palsy, has forced me to find alternative ways of expressing myself. I choose to convey my thoughts and feelings through color, composition, and form. Throughout my life, I have had to be pragmatic in my decisions to progress. I bring that same pragmatism to my art, focusing only on the elements that are necessary, rather than wanted, and keeping my work as simple as possible while still achieving my goals.
My studio practices primarily involve oil painting and conceptual art. Beyond traditional brushes, I often use large mural brushes and paint scrapers to create texture and desired effects.
I imbue my art with love, passion, and symbolism, hoping that it resonates with the viewer. My intention is to evoke peace and wonder through free-flowing brushstrokes and movements of color.
Artist Interview – Matthew
We honored to feature artist Matthew Lindblad in conversation about his creative journey, artistic influences, and the ideas that shape his work. In this interview, we explore his path as an artist, the inspiration behind his work, and the role art plays in furthering reflection, dialogue, and connection.
“What was your most challenging piece and why?”
My most challenging work was a series of three paintings centered around syringes. Conceptually, it was difficult to find a visual language that could represent how I became disabled.
While working on the series, I also faced an unexpected emotional challenge.
Even though I was very young when it happened and don’t consciously remember the experience, creating the work forced me to confront it in a deeper way. The process ended up being cathartic and surprisingly healing. It pushed me to grow not just as an artist, but as a person.
“What is your latest project/what are you currently working on?”
I’m currently working on a series built around harlequin patterns paired with mirrored elements. Each piece uses different shapes and compositions, with a mirror placed at the center to physically involve the viewer.
The work is meant to prompt a question: how do you see yourself, and how does that differ from how others see you? It’s about reflection in both a literal and psychological sense, and creating a moment where the viewer becomes part of the piece.
“How much do psychological theories factor into your work?”
Psychology plays a strong role in my work, even if it’s not always explicit. I’m interested in how people assign meaning, how memory works, and how emotions can be translated into visual systems. A lot of my process is about taking internal experiences and organizing them into something tangible. The structure in my work often reflects an attempt to understand or process something deeper.
“What are your three go-materials for making art?”
Oil paint, metallic elements like silver or copper, and found physical objects such as leaves. I’m drawn to the contrast between traditional painting materials and more unconventional elements that add dimension and symbolism.
“Who is your favorite iconic artist?”
Pablo Picasso. I admire how he continuously evolved and wasn’t afraid to completely change his style in pursuit of new ways to express ideas. That willingness to reinvent and push boundaries is something I strive for in my own work.
“What do you want the Art Spread community to take away from your work?”
I want people to feel that art can come from anywhere and that their own experiences have value. My work is rooted in personal meaning, but it’s presented in a way that invites others to reflect on their own lives. If someone walks away feeling inspired to create or to see their story differently, that means everything to me.
“How can our audience keep in touch with you?”
The best way to stay connected is through Instagram @MatthewLindbladArt, where I share my work and process. You can also follow along through Rhythm & Hues Gallery for upcoming shows and projects.
Make a difference to our artists with your tax-deductible purchase and collect Matthew’s art today:
