Artist Spotlight Series: Mary Matson
It is perfect timing to introduce you to a LA artist as I head to LALA Land for Legends of La Cienega.
You may recognize the work of this talented lady as she is a star among the big and small brands alike.
Enjoy getting to know
Los Angeles, California
What is your training?
I studied painting @ the Maryland Institute College of Art & received a MFA from Boston University also in painting. I always loved art & design. I grew up outside of DC in a town called Reston. I visited moved & travels a lot.
Art and design where a big part of my life early on.
I made the natural transition from painting to illustration & design over the years & in-between worked in kitchens as a pastry cook. It’s a mixed up resume but somehow kitchen life & studio life seemed too merge naturally. I am also proud of my work I did at kate spade. I meet wonderful people that have influenced my life and the direction it turned.
What inspires you and your designs?
What inspires you and your designs?
Nature. Everyday life.
I moved from NYC to LA 2 years ago. It is so different. I am so inspiring – all the new textures and color combinations are influencing me in ways I could have never imagined unless I experience it.
What is your favorite piece?
Well, that’s tough but I like this painting I did when I first got here.
I have found i can work more freely here in California.
I have the space and things seem less precious here.
How has the your area influenced your work?
Light. Color. & the plant variety out here in California.
What is your favorite restaurants in LA?
I cook a lot too. The farmers market is amazing out here.
& have been exploring cooking more Mexican and Vietnamese food, here at home.
What is your favorite cocktail?
Negroni or lemonade w/ a splash mescal.
How do you balance personal life and work?
I’ve got a nice balance & I feel very blessed. I have a studio, now & can swim outdoors year round.
Dream trip?
Dream trip?
I absolutely love Italy. I would love to return back to Sicily. I would also love to visit Japan!
Dream commission?
Dream commission?
I would love to work with Marimekko. That would be a dream.
Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?
Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?
Depending of the seasons a nice bowl w/ lemons or citrus is fun too.
She has wonderful things too for hostess gifts.
Who is your style icon?
Who is your style icon?
Lauren Hutton, David Hockney Fran Lebowitz. Classic Smart Funny.
My buddy and friend Mister Mort always influence me. he loves uniforms and studies style that influences me greatly.
Your favorite up and coming artist?
Jason Polan. I love his work. His project “to draw everyone in NYC” is ambitious, funny & impossible. It’s a project that doesn’t exclude anyone. it brings folks together & he’s a cool dude, too.
What is your most treasured possession?
I love my rocks that I have painted over the past 2 years. It’s a growing collection of souvenirs and doodles and represent visit to the beach.
What are you reading?
What are you reading?
My New Yorker’s are piling up! I always enjoy reading what’s going on and try to keep up.
My favorite book is Patti Smith. Fearless! I adore her & the book which I re-read recently. It’s is so poetic & beautiful & a true testament to friendship.
What are you listening to?
What are you listening to?
Erykah Badu She is my favorite musical artist.. I love the Beatles and have music on constantly when I am working. My heat beats for house music. Paradise garage vibes.
https://soundcloud.com/mihaidl/larry-levan-paradise-garage-1979
https://soundcloud.com/behind-the-front-au/erykah-badu-master-a-by-dj-naiki
What are your favorite blogs / publications?
https://soundcloud.com/mihaidl/larry-levan-paradise-garage-1979
https://soundcloud.com/behind-the-front-au/erykah-badu-master-a-by-dj-naiki
What are your favorite blogs / publications?
elle,
i love magazines.
Favorite instagram accounts?
https://www.instagram.com/julia_chance/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/abbyclawsonlow/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/mistermort/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/jasonpolan/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/abbyclawsonlow/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/mistermort/?hl=en
https://www.instagram.com/jasonpolan/?hl=en
Here is a look at Mary’s portfolio that has illustrations and art for big brands like Kate Spade, J.Crew, Conde Nast Traveler, Sea, Chance and many more.
Be sure to follow Mary on her website and her shop.
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Debby manning
Best artist series yet!! Mary’s work is exuberant/ Matisse like/ wonderful. Thank you for the introduction.