We were lucky to catch up with Justin DeMattico recently and have shared our conversation below.
Justin, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
Growing up, I always had an affinity for art. I would always see these master paintings and wish I could create something like that. Even though it was not apparent to me as a child, looking back on it now, my soul was crying out to pursue art. I always took an interest in creative projects, especially in school like sewing class, woodshop, and art courses. In high school, I decided to attend a vocational high school and study digital filmmaking. and really took an interest in editing and the CGI process leading me to want to find an animation program for college. In my area, there were not many universities that offered that locally. When I did enroll in college, part of the animation program involved taking drawing courses, something very new to me. I was incredibly intimidated as I’ve never drawn like that before but once I started, I was hooked to say the least. I decided I loved traditional media and after taking aa painting course, which taught me techniques from the Old Masters, I decided I needed to pursue art as my career path. I wanted to constantly be creating with me hands and help others find their love for art as well.
Justin, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a painter that dabbles in all media from oil paint, acrylics and watercolors. I recently graduated with my M.F.A. from Savannah College of Art and Design (Class of 2022) earning my degree in painting. Prior to that, I graduated in 2020 with a B.A. in studio art major from Monmouth University. When I was in college and trying to decide what I wanted to do with my life, the reoccurring question I got was “what can you do with an art degree?” It really had me thinking, what was I going to do after college. I knew I did not want a traditional 9-5 desk job and after speaking with many of my professors, I decided that I wanted to do exactly what they were doing. I wanted to teach and inspire the next generations of artists. I also paint and create art in my off time. I paint a variety of work ranging from religious inspired work to other-worldly creations to traditional portraits. I sell original work, prints and take commissions as well.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
I believe the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is freedom to create anything I want. There are no rules I have to follow, no pressure to conform, the possibilities are endless. Everyone’s artistic practice is different and it is extremely rewarding to know that something you create is unique, one of a kind and furthers my message/voice. There is no right or wrong way to be an artist or creative, it is completely up to you and the limits imposed by your own imagination.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I would say my mission with my artwork is to just try and spread as much positivity and beauty as possible. There is a lot of hate, violence and division in the world and I just really want someone who views my work to have a calmness, and overwhelming peace. Knowing someone has taken interest in my art and want to display it in their home whether it be an original or print, keeps me going, knowing they are getting joy every time they see the piece.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.justindemattico.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justin_demattico_art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justindematticoart
- Other: Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/JustinDeMatticoArt