UMOCA | Matthew Sketch: FAM(ily)

Using representations of the local landscape as a jumping-off point, Matthew Sketch uses hard-edge geometric abstraction to explore the relationship between light and land. Central to his paintings is the sun, which is given luminance and texture through a layer of gold leaf. The triangular shapes reference mountain ranges or rays of light and illustrate the phenomenon of atmospheric perspective where color and focus change due to distance. This allows him to manipulate the appearance of depth on a two-dimensional surface and highlight the importance of particular objects within his compositions. Sketch also incorporates additional light sources to further reinforce direction and movement.

His paintings are more than simplified recreations of nature––they also speak to potential. The sun seems to rise in each painting, moving beyond the geometric shapes that cover it. Sometimes these shapes obscure the sun. In others, they look as if they are supporting the sun, or the support appears to be reciprocal until, in the last painting, it finally separates itself from the surface below. For Sketch, this act signifies growth and overcoming through the help of others or, as the title suggests, family.

Supported by George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation.