Meet Ewa Matyja | Abstract Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ewa Matyja and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ewa, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My path to starting my own business began with a deep-seated passion for art. I had spent over a decade in the fashion industry, enjoying my role in retail management. However, my heart always leaned towards art, a love that ignited in my teenage years. In my small hometown in Poland, the absence of an artistic community left me unsure about pursuing art professionally. This led me to study marketing and event management while I was in Ireland, skills that served me well in the corporate world.

But the call of art was persistent. I constantly found myself drawn to the idea of creating something unique. As I crossed into my 30s, I made a bold decision: I left my stable job to fully immerse myself in the art world. Starting with little knowledge of how to manage an art business, but driven by a profound desire to create, I embarked on this journey.

I quickly realized that being an artist isn’t just about creating art; it’s about mastering many roles. From marketing and social media to handling logistics like shipping, preparing canvases, sourcing materials, photographing artwork, and even designing a website – it’s a multifaceted endeavor. Fortunately, I began to sell my paintings internationally, which was both thrilling and affirming.

For me, the essence of being an artist is in expressing emotions through my paintings and connecting with those who appreciate and collect my work. Seven years into this adventure, I’m still evolving, learning, and growing in my craft. It’s a continuous journey of discovery, fueled by my love for art and the joy of sharing it with others.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a self-taught artist, my journey in art is marked by continual self-challenge and a drive to expand the boundaries of creativity. My art, deeply rooted in abstract expression, is a reflection of the myriad of emotions and the chaos inherent in our daily lives. Each stroke of my brush on canvas is an attempt to encapsulate these complex feelings.

My artistic process is a testament to the beauty of exploration and the value of embracing imperfections. I believe that through experimentation and a readiness to embrace mistakes, one can craft pieces that are not just visually striking but also emotionally resonant.

The inspiration for my work comes from a diverse range of sources – the natural world, architectural marvels, varied cultures, and the plethora of emotions they evoke. This rich tapestry of influences is visible in my use of traditional materials like acrylics, charcoal, pastels, and ink, blended with local art supplies and natural elements. This fusion results in a distinctive, textured, three-dimensional effect that truly mirrors the essence of my experiences and surroundings.

My creative methodology is dynamic and non-linear. I often work on multiple pieces simultaneously, allowing for an ongoing dialogue between them. This approach enables me to evolve and refine my concepts continuously. In my art, there is no room for second thoughts or corrections; every mark is a decisive step in the creation of something extraordinary.

Reflecting on my personal journey, the evolution of my art has been heavily influenced by my environments. I started painting in the confines of my bedroom floor, yearning to create larger pieces. This aspiration led me to Berlin, then to New York City, and eventually, I found my haven in Bali, Indonesia. Here, in my open-air studio, I can truly immerse myself in creating large-scale paintings. The studio in Bali has been a dream come true, providing the perfect backdrop for experimenting with textures and working on multiple projects simultaneously – always my ultimate goal.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In the journey of an artist, the support system we have plays a pivotal role, and I am immensely grateful for mine. First and foremost, a massive shoutout to my art collectors. They are the heartbeat of any artist’s career. These incredible people engage with my work, analyze it, feel the emotions I pour into each piece, and choose to make my art a part of their lives. Their support is invaluable and deeply appreciated. Without them I would not be able to create.

Then, there’s my family. Their backing in my somewhat surprising decision to pursue art has been unwavering. My parents, who supported my decision to travel and live abroad for nearly two decades, and my four amazing sisters, who are always honest and upfront with their opinions, have been instrumental. This kind of honesty is crucial for growth as an artist. My youngest sister, the owner of a creative clothing brand Magda Matyja (http://www.magdamatyja.com), and her collaboration with our other sister Aleksandra, fuel my motivation with their innovative ideas.

I also owe a lot to the artist community. Meeting incredible artists online, at events like The Other Art Fair in New York or London, has been a source of inspiration and support. Artists like Douglas Diaz, Monica Perez, Sam Rueter, Caroline Kjellberg, and many others, understand the unique joys and struggles of this path. They motivate me, inspire me, and push my boundaries in countless ways.

Special mention to James Baird (https://www.jamesbaird.com), owner of a gallery and artist residency program in Canada. His extensive knowledge and unwavering support for young artists have been a beacon of hope and motivation for many, including myself.

Lastly, two books have been instrumental in my artistic and personal growth. “Art, Inc.” by Lisa Congdon, a gift from my older sister Paulina, and “Art/Work” by Heather Darcy Bhandari. These books not only reignited my passion for painting after years in a corporate job but also gave me the courage to take the leap into being a full-time artist. They guided me in showcasing my art with pride and offering it to the world.

Each of these individuals, groups, and resources has played a significant role in my journey, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Website: https://www.ewa-matyja.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ewamatyja