#art, FEATURES by VALENCIARTIST: Artist Matt Snyder

Added to our growing list of artistic protagonists is a new friend from the blogging world. Allow me to introduce you to Matt Snyder…

IN HIS OWN WORDS

Matt Snyder has actively shaped the arts landscape since 1983, when, at just 13 years old, he began creating Super 8 movies with his friends.

He self-published a humorous 4-issue comic during his time in high school.

He has showcased his art locally since 1988, in the mediums of drawing & cartooning, photography, painting, and mixed media.

In his 20s, he wrote, directed, and acted in two public access TV shows through Northampton Community College. He directed Harold Pinter’s “Night School” for the stage, co-created and starred in the bilingual play “Allentales” in collaboration with Pregones Theater, and self-published a zine along with another comic. Additionally, he produced multiple short films for various film festivals and spent several summers excelling as both a sound tech and a costume character performer.

In his 30s, he maintained a vibrant presence behind the scenes and confidently took the stage in live theater. He immersed himself in the local poetry scene, showcasing his skills at various venues. His creative journey led him to explore music production and delve into the art of Jewish Klezmer Dancing. As a certified drum circle facilitator, he played an integral role in local drum circles. Additionally, he thrived as a freelance entertainment journalist, consistently exhibiting his art and crafting captivating short films.

In his 40s, he embraced new adventures like Swing dance, embarking on an exciting blogging journey, and honing his skills in comedic improv. He married his beautiful and creative wife, Jess, who is 12 years his junior, although he rarely enjoys a good night’s sleep due to their spirited cat, Nigel P. Kitty. He made his mark as an Arts Editor for a brief yet impactful international magazine, collaborating in diverse ways with bloggers from around the globe. Additionally, he hosted a podcast for a year, skillfully dramatizing the stories of others in the engaging style reminiscent of old-time radio shows.

Now in his 50s, he embraces this blogging journey with confidence, eagerly exploring diverse avenues in all aspects of the arts as he moves forward.

MATT AND I IN A CASUAL CHAT ABOUT THINGS…

VALENCIARTIST: At what point/time in your life did you realise you were an artist and assuming that profession, how did it change your life?

MATT: I think I was born a creative soul. I live for imagination. I have been creative my entire life. Even as a kid I got enjoyment from using my imagination to envision being a space traveller while sitting in a reclining chair.

I have tried to make a mark as an artist over 35 years, sold some through exhibit, craft shows, tee shirts, freelance & word of mouth but not enough to consider it my profession.

I do have bouts of anxiety & depression and suffer a bit from low self esteem. It is very hard for me to accept high compliments on anything I have done or currently do. It’s a never ending battle, I’m sure it is a big part as to why I never took a leap to making this more than just a side gig.

I have worked as a digital imaging archivist for the last 26 years as my means of a way of life.

I will say because I have dipped my feet into the waters of so many different avenues of the arts fine-sculpture-film-music-performance, I really wouldn’t change a thing. I am a real renaissance man.

A highlight in my creative journey was having one of my pen & ink Noir drawings publicized on a local walking trail.

VALENCIARTIST: Reference politics. Do you think artists (of any of the arts) should engage in political activity and speak out publicly? And should artists aim their work toward political ends?

MATT: In regards to politics, sure take a stand but only if it is truly within your heart to do so. But to me one must be willing to cross a line that could be quite dangerous.

N.W.A recorded «Fuck tha police» a timeless classic still sadly relevant today, actually incited to be investigated by the F.B.I at the time of it’s release (despite not being released as a single and zero radio airplay).

On the flip side French Publication Charlie Hebdo a more readily available publication, elicited fatal terrorist attacks against them mostly from comic strips putting the Prophet Mohammed in a bad light.

VALENCIARTIST: How do you view the future of art? Do you think AI will destroy what artists have worked for throughout history?

MATT: A.I. pfft. Hate it. I consider it cheating. I’m old school man, i prefer drawn to computer animated, prefer film to digital movies, prefer hands on special effects to green screen/computer. I have noticed more and more blog writers utilizing A.I. images, the world is ever changing, but I’ll never fully embrace it.

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Thank you so very much Matt. It has been a pleasure and an interesting conversation. We should always strive to keep the dynamics of art alive and the discussions going. After all, everybody loves art. All the best and the best of luck to you.

MATT’S ARTWORK

(All artwork images above are provided by and property of M. Snyder)

Matt Snyder is an artist at heart living in North East Pennsylvania with his wife Jess and their cat Nigel.  His blog is iMartist and can be found on WordPress at

https://martist1970.com/

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NOTA BENE – NOTA BENE – NOTA BENE

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