Ultra contemporary painter Matthew Ricci (b. 1998, South Australia) emerges from a background of mathematical science and statistics. However, concerned with the dichotomy between religious morality and the demands of modern life, chooses to explore abstract figurative painting. It is this tension Matthew captures on the canvas through automatic drawing and expressionist painting techniques, as well as symbolism taken from his early memories of religion and sexuality.

 

In his work, Matthew is committed to depicting the irrational yet universal human experiences that are emotions through abstracting the human figure. His artistic process is influenced by the expressionist figure painters of the early 20th century, whilst incorporating geometric elements from his mathematical background. Choosing to use intuition rather than logic to dictate each action, Matthew creates provocative compositions which hint at themes of sexuality, morality and love. As a Modernist artist,  Ricci is committed to further exploring these themes which are becoming more important as we introduce AI into society.

 

Additionally, Matthew also creates purely abstract using shapes as the visual language. By reducing visual imagery to the most fundamental components (shapes), it gives the viewer an opportunity to engage with their subconscious as they discover the hidden relationships between the shapes, and themselves. In this way, a true celebration of human consciousness.

 

Although hailing from Adelaide, South Australia, Ricci currently chooses to live and work in Berlin, Germany. Such environmental stimuli has provided more exploration into abstract painting, furthering his emerging career. Ricci is currently not represented but appears in private collections globally, and participates in international art fairs and exhibitions.

 

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Past Group Exhibitions:

• BAAM (Curated), Berlin art fair, (2024).

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Past Solo Exhibitions:

• CURATED Presents Matthew Ricci, An Afternoon of Live Drawing, (2023).

• Matthew Ricci at Unkompress, Berlin Vernissage, (2024).

 

Education:

• Bachelor of Economics (Advanced), Adelaide University (2021)

• Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences, Adelaide University (2021)