Holding on to a Dream

Born in 1982, Matt Talbert is a Southern California-based contemporary oil painter whose artistry seamlessly weaves Californian hues with the spirited dynamism of New York City. Drawing from his rich experiences in NYC’s art realm, and an esteemed education at the Orange County School of the Arts and the Laguna College of Art and Design, Talbert melds abstract intuition with intricate realism. Celebrated as one of the "Top 100 Figurative Artists Working Now" by Poets/Artists Magazine, his evocative portraits sing occasional melodies, blending expressive textures with lifelike figures. Echoing the expressiveness of LA actors or capturing the serene sanctuaries of the bustling city, Talbert’s pieces deeply resonate. His work garners acclaim in esteemed journals like American Art Collector and International Artist. "I paint people, but I am more interested in conveying an emotional state rather than illustrating an outward appearance. I blur the line between our physical reality and the one that is going on in our heads. Using thick textures and bold colors, I combine both traditional and experimental techniques to enhance the emotions at play. Trusting my intuition, embracing spontaneity, and doing so with confidence are the keys to my latest body of work." -Matt Talbert