Table of Contents
Art Minute
| Title: | Rick Matear |
| Duration: | 13:30 |
| Year: | 2019 |
| Director/DOP: | Peter M Lamont |
| Music: | Moby |
| Cameras: | BMPCC OG, Sony F3, Mavic Mini |
About Rick Matear
Early Life and Background
Born in 1960, Rick Matear developed a profound connection to the natural world from an early age. His formative years were spent exploring the coastal regions of Victoria, experiences that would later become central themes in his artistic practice.
Artistic Development and Education
Matear pursued formal art education at the Victorian College of the Arts (VCA), graduating in 1981. During his time at VCA, he was awarded the Sara Levi Prize for the most outstanding student in painting, recognising his exceptional talent and dedication to the medium.
Major Works and Exhibitions
Over his extensive career, Matear has held numerous solo exhibitions across Australia, including shows at Australian Galleries in Melbourne and Chapman Gallery in Canberra. His work has also been exhibited internationally, notably in London. In addition to solo exhibitions, he has participated in various group shows and art fairs, such as the Affordable Art Fair. His paintings are held in public collections, including the Maribyrnong City Council, and he has completed numerous private commissions.
Style and Technique
Matear's paintings are renowned for their ability to capture the reflection of light on water, a testament to his keen observation and technical skill. He often employs a dreamy haze of fragmented colour and shape to evoke the sensory experience of a sunny day spent by the beach. In recent years, he has experimented with drawing, line, and colour, enriching his work and creating more engaging visual narratives. By dedicating more time to preliminary drawings and line work, Matear has refined his ability to lead the viewer's eye around the image, deciding what elements to include or omit for maximum impact.
Legacy and Influence
Beyond his painting practice, Matear is committed to art education, offering private tuition to students ranging from beginners to advanced levels since 1998. He maintains a studio at the Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne, a hub for a diverse community of creatives. His dedication to teaching and his involvement in the artistic community have solidified his influence on emerging artists and the broader art scene.
