Matt Gondek is a deconstructive pop artist, entrepreneur, and the host of Clean Break, an art & business podcast. A self-taught artist with a sharp business sense recognized for his punk rock spirit, Matt celebrates rebellion and destruction with a visceral pop color palette and a disarmingly playful tone, often tearing down cartoon idols in explosive and glaring style. Across multi-mediums, such as painting, sculpture, and digital art, Matt has carved an impressive niche and gained notoriety with his distinctive essence. Born in 1982 in Pittsburgh, PA (and currently based in Los Angeles), Matt’s creative voice is rooted in the 90s. He boasts sold-out exhibitions around the world, including New York, Paris, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. Celebrity clients include J Balvin and The Weeknd. See classic cartoons in a new light in today’s Maker Monday.
“Anger Issues” – Black Patina Bronze
Andrew Joseph: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Keep creating and improving. You can’t control how others perceive your work, but as long as your heart is in it, everything else will fall into place.
AJ: Can you tell us about a specific moment in your career that made you feel accomplished?
A few years ago, I was able to give my parents money to buy a house. It’s one thing to support yourself through art, but it’s a great feeling to be able to help others.
“The Past is Told By Those Who Win (Mars vs Earth)” – Two Acrylic Paintings
AJ: What is your favorite place to find inspiration?
Recently, it’s been the downtown LA library. It’s so easy now to go online and search for references, but there’s something special about strolling through the city, going there, and perusing old books in person.
AJ: How do you stay organized while working on multiple projects?
I’ve carried around a little organizer everywhere for the last 15 years. I write down every single thing I have to do – and I love scratching them out when finished.
“Opulence” – Acrylic on Canvas 36” x 48”
AJ: If you weren’t an artist, what would you be and why?
Before I became an artist, I was in several punk bands. I like to think I would have continued pursuing that if I hadn’t started taking art so seriously.
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