Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Matthew Troyer. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Matthew thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The project that truly resonated with me and marked a significant milestone in my career is my series titled “Playing At War”. This series dives deep into the phenomenon of war simulation, probing its intricate connections to military culture, identity formation, and societal dynamics at large. Through “Playing At War”, I aimed to spark critical dialogue and reflection on the implications of this trend, from its impact on warrior culture to desensitization to violence, notions of religion, patriotism, and the diverse motivations driving participation.

At the heart of the series lies Rockingham Airsoft and Tactical Support (RATS), a Christian-rooted organization in Reidsville, North Carolina. Here, members engage in airsoft games set in a deserted elementary school purchased by the owners of RATS. These games involve participants donning authentic military gear and using realistic replica firearms firing non-metallic pellets. While superficially seen as a recreational pursuit, “Playing At War” endeavors to uncover the intricate layers beneath this form of play.

This project marked a profound re-entry into documentary photography for me, solidifying a definitive shift in the trajectory of my visual exploration. It provided a platform to address the multitude of questions I’ve grappled with, offering both personal fulfillment and the opportunity to contribute to a broader discourse on the intersection of military culture and society.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

After leaving college in Florida in 2008, I took a very different path in life and joined the United States Marine Corps as a combat photographer. It was an incredible experience to document the lives of my fellow service members both abroad, in places like Afghanistan, The Philippines, Thailand, and at home in the U.S.

Upon completing my service, I found myself drawn more towards editorial and commercial portraiture, deliberately steering away from military-related subjects in my work. However, as I pursued my BFA at Ringling College of Art and Design, I realized that my art could serve as a means to explore the myriad questions and experiences I had encountered, now through a fresh perspective.

This realization continued to evolve during my time pursuing an MFA at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where I embarked on independent study under the guidance of Anthropologist Dr. Jocelyn Chua. I began delving into the ways in which the military intersects with and influences our broader culture. That’s been the most fundamental shift in the focus of my practice. Even now as I look towards graduating May, 2024 I have accepted to study for my MA in Visual Anthropology at the University of Manchester in England.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, one of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist or creative is the opportunity to work through questions I have, rather than simply seeking answers. Creativity allows me to engage in an ongoing dialogue with myself and the world around me, exploring meaningful ideas and perspectives that may not have clear-cut solutions or answers. Through art, I can delve into the complexities of life, society, history, and identity, inviting others to join me in this exploration into our American culture.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One pivotal experience that profoundly shaped my resilience was my time serving in the United States Marines, particularly during my year-long deployment to Afghanistan. As a combat photographer, I had the unique opportunity to navigate active combat zones, often with minimal supervision. This role allowed me to witness the raw realities of war firsthand, experiencing my strange 1st and 2nd hand perspective of the battlefield simultaneously: physically present yet removed as I looked through the lens of my camera.

Through this lens, I witnessed moments of personal injury, loss, camaraderie, and the full spectrum of human emotions. Engaging with my imagery after operations further deepened my understanding, exposing me to the complexities of humanity at its best and worst.

These experiences, especially the long days spent in the desert, instilled in me a resilience that can only be obtained through such profound challenges. While my journey was not without its hardships, I found strength in adversity, refusing to waver in the face of difficulty. Each trial served as a catalyst for personal growth, reinforcing my determination to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side. Through perseverance and unwavering resolve, I learned to thrive amidst adversity, a lesson that continues to shape my journey forward.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.troyermatthew.com
• Instagram: matthewtroyer
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtroyerphotography

Image Credits
Matthew Troyer