MATT DODGE
Sculpted Photographs
“Modern images that capture contemporary man’s celebration of the eternal Earth,” responds Matt Dodge, when asked to describe his work. “In order to thrive," he adds,"a huge slice of my soul demands active adventure, while another craves to create.” Combining the two, his work visually translates the intrinsic elation of outdoor engagement, when the synapses are firing and the soul rejoicing.
He begins his creative process with photographs taken while pursuing outdoor activities. These images are digitally edited and printed on canvas. Next, color is applied by hand, using inks and dyes, pencils and pastels, oils, acrylics and watercolors. Outlines, designs and textures are then steadfastly and meticulously carved into the core of the canvas using rotary engraving tools and X-Acto knives. These steps are repeated as necessary, until the final image reveals itself. Wire is sometimes stitched through the canvas as a final embellishment. All resulting works, which he terms "Sculpted Photographs", are one-of-a-kind treasures.
Born in Santa Monica, and after 26 years in North Lake Tahoe, Matt Dodge currently resides in the Humboldt County enclave of Big Lagoon, California. A daily outdoorsman, he savors pedaling and paddling his local terrain, then working on his images.
Matt Dodge received the degree Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
