Burning Bridges & Raining on Parades

It's been a long time & I doubt anyone is still interested.

2011-02-28T17:32:00.000-08:00

So, It has been some time since I have posted anything on here or anywhere and quite a bit has changed. Here is a brief rundown:

I have 3 shows this year. 1 solo in Chicago at OhNo!Doom Gallery, 1 solo at Screaming Sky Gallery and 1 3-man show with Ron Copeland & Blutt and Hot Pop Gallery.

I have a new job as a senior graphic designer for a sports apparel company.

The solo I had in Cleveland this past October and the 2-man I had with Blutt in November were both considered successful on my end.

My wife bought me an analog camera for my birthday, here are a couple double exposures that I took.

The Benefits of Exhaustion {show details}

2010-09-22T07:23:00.001-07:00

coming soon

2010-07-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

The Benefits of Exhaustion
7x7 inch softcover
120 Full Color Pages
covering work from late 2004 until mid 2010

Digital Stuff & Updates on Upcoming Things.

2010-06-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

Alright everybody, I know it has been quite a bit since I have thrown up an update about the things I got going on. So here are some things that I have been working on as far as digital design work goes.

I also have quite a few shows coming up soon. I got a group show in ATL & CA in early August, a solo show in CLE in early October, a possible 5-man in FL, a 2-man in CHI with Booker in Nov/December.

Stay tuned for more updates regarding a product release & possible gallery news.

"A Disturbance in the Force"

2010-06-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the piece I did for the Star Wars tribute show at Hope Gallery Tattoo in New Haven, CT. The show opens tomorrow, if you live on the East Coast...hit this up, I hear their opening receptions are legendary. I actually think my piece may have sold already...not sure, fingers crossed.

7 part video interview.

2010-05-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

Filmed & Edited by my man Dalibor. I say "like" and "ughhh" alot. Also, I realized I am a very animated talker. This came out pretty awesome considering all the technology failures.

Reaching towards an ending.

2010-05-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

So, last week was one of those weeks where I got a ton of great artistic offers, opportunities and propositions to collaborate with some great people, artists and companies. Also, if you have been following along on the blog, I had my second curated exhibit this past Saturday at the always awesome Revolution Tattoo & Art Gallery. The turn-out was awesome and Some paintings sold....that is always a good thing.

This brings me to today. I finally realized just how fast I reached my glass ceiling at this day job. Realistically, 6 months after I started I realized that I have no way to move up, be artistically/creatively challenged or make any more money. I don't really know where this rant is going but, I do know that I need to make a move...and FAST.

Sitting behind a computer for 8 hours a day certainly has it's benefits however those benefits do not out-weigh the negatives. I am not sure what is going to happen in the next couple months but I really feel some sort of change coming, at least I hope so. I need to make a big step, something happen...for my well being and for the sake of things around me.

Fuck waking up miserable, fuck going to sleep miserable, fuck snot-mouthed broads, fuck not fucking, fuck not being romantic enough, fuck addicted parents, fuck giving up, fuck giving in, fuck trying hard at something that is gonna fail, fuck bosses that you have more knowledge than, fuck hypocrites and fuck people on their high horses.

I really hate turning this blog into a rant about personal shit but I had to today...enough is really enough.

Tomorrow NIght. 5-01-2010

2010-04-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow night is the show at Revolution. Here is the info and some images.

YOU SLEEP TOO MUCH
Opening Reception:
Sat. May 1st, 2010, 8pm - 12am
Featuring works by:
Ron Copeland
Matthew Ryan Sharp
Parskid
Charlie Owens
Revolution Tattoo & Art Gallery
2221 N. Western Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
www.revolutiontattoo.net

You Sleep Too Much - new show May 1st

2010-03-30T11:43:00.001-07:00

"You Sleep Too Much"
4-man exhibition
Revolution Tattoo & Art Gallery
Saturday May 1st
8pm - 12pm

Ron Copeland
Matthew Ryan Sharp
Parskid
Charlie Owens

This Saturday.

2010-03-03T11:10:00.000-08:00

OhNo!Doom Gallery
Chicago, IL
www.ohnodoom.com

Drowning.

2010-03-01T12:33:00.000-08:00

Got a new Iphone skin dropping! Available over at the MUTT store or you can scoop them up at the ON!D show this Saturday, March 6th.

http://mutt.bigcartel.com/product/drowning-by-matthew-ryan-sharp

Stunned.

2010-02-24T09:55:00.000-08:00

Not sure if I am really into this or I really hate it...I think this was a huge internet buzz a couple months ago. I remember seeing the kid with the growth disease a few years ago on the Maury Povich talk show. This dudes prison tattoos are incredible.

Doze Green...Love this dude.

2010-01-28T13:19:00.001-08:00

OFF THE WALL :: Doze Green - Studio Visit from friendswelove.com on Vimeo.

2010 sketches...thus far.

2010-01-27T10:35:00.000-08:00

I make it a point to draw everyday, even if it is the same old ugly dudes with oversized teeth and under-bites.

Utilize the tools around you. Paper, ink, pencil, tape, white-out, coffee, Post-it notes and Xerox machines can all be used to create work when not in the studio. Be resourceful in 2010...and original.

Message in a Bottle show.

2010-01-25T11:12:00.000-08:00

The great folks over at Solid Gallery One Tattoo & Art Gallery asked me to be a part of their February show. "Message in a Bottle" is going to have artists either paint on bottles or incorporate that theme into their painting. I decided to do a painting for this show since my 3 dimensional work never really comes out.

Opens on February 12th. If you live around there...check it out in person, the roster of artists is really great.

You'll die, it doesn't change a thing.

2010-01-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

Recently, my life feels like an American Nightmare track.

March Show in Chicago.

2010-01-08T09:04:00.000-08:00

I got a little 7 man show coming up on March 6th. A good group of people are in this show and we are gonna be cranking out some really great art in order to start 2010 off right. I will be donating a portion of my proceeds from the show to PAWS Chicago in the form of needed items for their adoption animals.

I will be donating money from all of my shows in 2010 to specific animal organizations...trying to use my talent to help something I believe in.

New Things in Progress.

2010-01-05T10:26:00.000-08:00

Just a couple hand built wood panels with a 4'' and 6" cradle on them. I made a bunch in the fall but the garage is so brutally cold right now, I have not made any more. My wifey goes out of town next weekend, I think I will brave the cold and make a couple 2 X 4 foot panels...working bigger and smaller this year...what the hell does that mean?

Tune in to find out.

New Year.

2010-01-04T09:54:00.001-08:00

I would like to start the new year off by thanking all the galleries, magazines, artists and fans that made this past year really amazing. I got to do so many cool shows and was featured in so many great publications...it was truly a humbling and exhausting year.

This year will hopefully prove to be no different. I have 7 exhibitions officially booked, a fall book release and a collective that I joined with 2 other awesome dudes that will be releasing al sorts of incredible things throughout this year. I am also really stoked to have a healthy wife and pugs at home as well as embarking on part time teaching. Yep, starting January 18th I will be a adjunct instructor for Graphic Design for Print Production.

The first Major show for 2010 is going to be on March 6th at the newly re-located Oh No Doom Gallery in Chicago. "A Healthy Dosage of Restlessness" 7-man exhibition curated by Matthew Ryan Sharp & Project Detonate. Featuring work by: Charlie Owens, Parskid, Tyler "MUTT" Coey, Brian Colin, Toby Stanger, Project Detonate and Matthew Ryan Sharp.

More details to follow...no sleep in 2010.

"Carnival Justice" iphone skin

2009-12-01T09:55:00.000-08:00

I just got the photo in the email of the first product between myself and Tyler over at MUTT toy company. I was contacted a month ago to send some art his way that I might like to see on some iphone skins and today this popped in my mail box.

This is gonna be the first of many things that I will be working with Tyler on, he is a rad dude and has a killer work ethic. People who work hard and like to make things happen rather than waiting for opportunity to knock, are the types of people I like to surround myself with. Get the "Carnival Justice" iphone skin here:

http://mutt.bigcartel.com/product/carnival-justice-by-matthew-ryan-sharp

sketches.

2009-11-25T10:38:00.000-08:00

Not a lot of painting going on right now but I am actively drawing and filling sketchbooks. I will be using these completed sketchbooks for something next year.

Have a good holiday.

digital.

2009-11-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

I don't get a chance to mess with Photoshop a whole lot at my day gig outside of color correction and minor photo re-touches. I just thought I would play around with some blending modes, channel mixing and textures on different layers.

Bears, Babes & Super Nachos.

2009-11-02T14:14:00.000-08:00

So, the lady and I went to our first Bears game yesterday against (my home away from home) the Cleveland Browns. This was a great first game because I like both teams so, I won either way. We had a stellar time hanging out with totally drunk football maniacs, eating super nachos and watching the game from row 6. Good times with a good girl (soon to be wifey!) and some good eats. We can't wait to go to another.

Chicago Bears 30 - Cleveland Browns 6

Yikes, that hurts. At least the Browns have a rad color scheme going for them.

The Benefit of Exhaustion.

2009-10-26T11:35:00.001-07:00

Both Pieces are 2 X 3 feet. Mixed media on wood. Currently on exhibition at my "Rogues of the Midwest" show @ the Hot Pop Gallery in Milwaukee, WI.

Post show after thoughts.

2009-10-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

So my solo show opened last night and the turnout was less than impressive. The weather was decent, it wasn't very cold and I was told that it was promoted well in the area. I know that I personally promoted the show via my site, blog, Myspace and my email list. I would be willing to bet that Adolf Hitler had a better turnout at his funeral.

The great thing about the show was that my wife and her mom drove down and surprised me at the opening along with my good friend Dalibor. I also got to spend a great deal of time talking shop with artist Matt Cipov, which was really great to do. I also sold 3 pieces with such a small turnout which was a nice shock.

The show is up until January 21st, so we will see how the show does in a gallery that has normal business hours during the pre & post holiday season.

Kinda bummed, but I am trying to keep positive.

Gimme your vote.

2009-10-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

I designed a back for the good folks at EQ unit.

http://www.equnit.com/equilibrium/

vote for me if you would like.

I love this dude.

2009-10-13T08:46:00.000-07:00

Doze Green.
His art took a bit to grow on me but when I read his interview in Juxtapoz a few years back, I fell in love with his attitude.

same old, new stuff.

2009-09-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

All this will be at my solo. Just some studio sneaks.

Coming to Hot Pop Gallery on October 23, 2009

2009-09-22T14:51:00.000-07:00

More info in the next day or so.

More progress.

2009-09-17T08:25:00.001-07:00

Big week & weekend.

2009-09-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Alright, no pictures this post...just a recap and my thoughts on some things.

Last week I found out that the company I work for is issuing everyone who makes over $25,000 an 8% PAY CUT company wide. So, I came into the newspaper industry 2 years ago, heavily under paid as is (newspapers are the lowest paying design field right after Kinko's or Office Max) and now I am getting a pay cut which equals 80 bucks less per check...awesome (insert sarcasm here)

Along with this, the gentleman who is interested in buying the company I work for (to save us from liquidation bankruptcy) has issued all sorts of stipulations and demands for the union employees in order for him to feel comfortable making the purchase of our company. So, if by September 29th, the company is not purchased by the interested party we go back in front of the bankruptcy judge. The judge will either issue us a extension to get out of debt or....shut us down and force us to liquidate by the end of October...awesome (insert sarcasm here) The liquidation and closing will most likely happen 2 weeks before my wedding. Long story short, I am seeking out the best warehouse position so I can transition into a new job asap and avoid this unwanted stress. The graphic design field is so brutal right now, I am just going to go back to mindless warehouse work for the time being.

Alright, so enough depressing, bad economy, job-loss crap. Here is some good stuff:
2 weeks ago, Jenn and I got our motorcycle licenses and this past weekend we went looking at bikes at Conrad's HD, Willy World and via the internet. While both of our dream bikes are Harley's (mine is the Iron 883 in Black Denim) neither of us want to get our "Dream Bike" as our "First Bike". So, I think we decided that we are gonna get Honda Rebels and then get them customized and equipped with a bobber kit in order to give the bike a more classic/vintage look. More on that as the details progress. On Saturday Conrad's HD was having their 25th anniversary bash...good times, sweet bikes and lots of chaps!!

Sunday we went to the Sandwich Fair and this marks Jenn & I's 6th year going and it was just as awesome as the first. The Wisconsin Cheese Hut, Wild Bill's Soda and the most insane demolition derby we have seen yet made this year a pretty awesome one. After the fair we came home and watched the Bears lose....the hype around Cutler has been trumped by that sorry-ass season opener performance. Hopefully, this was a fluke game and Jay Cutler gets his shit together before the next game.

I wonder what this week will bring?

Work in Progress...this ones a biggie.

2009-09-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

Finishing up on this piece here. This one measures in at 2ft X 3ft and has a 4" cradle and a 1/2" face. This is the biggest piece I have done thus far and is proving to be pretty labor intensive with all the details. I should have this finished in a day or so and then I can start the next one. This is just a early progress pic.

A mild summary of my upcoming solo show.

2009-09-03T15:46:00.000-07:00

Rogues of the Midwest - A solo exhibition of new work by Matthew Ryan Sharp

Matthew Ryan Sharp is a painter, illustrator and graphic designer that lives, works and "makes things" in the semi-clean outskirts of Chicago where he resides with his wife and three pugs. If you were to ask Matthew what exactly it is that he does, you may get a response similar to: "I paint stuff on things". This response is not very in depth but it is fairly accurate.

Matthew drips, draws, sprays, splatters, pastes and paints his character-based social observations on wood, paper or any other surface he may have "found" in a dumpster/local construction site.

The new body of work that was created specifically for this show is a step in a new, more detailed direction that consists of multiple layers and a more cohesive visual narrative compared to previous works. If you do not enjoy the color brown, ice cream, nostalgia, mustaches, top hats, dapper gentlemen, suspenders, clowns, mimes, booze, bowler hats, knives, playing cards, ghosts, inverted crosses, skulls, name tags, magicians, imperfect painting techniques, carnivals, vagabonds, drifters, the color orange, midwestern living, large teeth, the dustbowl or acrylic paint...you probably will not enjoy this exhibition.

Hopefully these new paintings will brighten up your day, but if not, thats cool too.

Hot Pop Gallery - Milwaukee, WI
Friday October 23rd, 2009

New Baby Pug

2009-09-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

So, the lady and I decided that we wanted another pug and we picked her up from the airport this past Friday. She made the trek from Arkansas to St. Louis and then jumped on a plane to Chicago. She is such a great puppy, the first couple days were rough while she got adjusted and while her older pug-brothers got familiar with her. Everything is returning to normal after a restless and slightly chaotic weekend for Jenn and myself.

She had her first vet visit yesterday and got a clean bill of health from the doctor...so that is a huge relief for both of us since we were worried sick when Lunchbox got so ill.

I present to you our newest baby Pug: Ena (Irish for "Little Fire) since she is a apricot fawn and has more red-tones in her coat than Lunchbox.

Slightly Premature.

2009-08-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

So this the front flyer for a show the Project Detonate and myself curated. We hand picked these artists because either we like working/showing with them, have never shown with them or we really respect what they do and want to help get them some more exposure. Jon and Gina at T & P Fine Art in Philly are really great people to work with and I had the pleasure of showing at the gallery when it first opened...really stoked on this show.

This show is not until February but I kinda needed to update my blog and I don't wanna post too many images for my solo show (October 23rd, 2009). I figure I would toss up this flyer I designed to fill up space.

Info for my solo show as well as the flyer for it will be coming in a few weeks.

NowThen Magazine.

2009-08-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

So, about 3 months ago I was asked by the designer of NowThen Sheffield to be the featured artist for a upcoming issue. NowThen Sheffield is a free magazine that focuses on the best independent art, music, political issues and businesses from across the pond. I was honored to be asked to do this since I have never heard of the magazine and also since it was 2 U.K. illustrators that suggested my name to the magazine.

Unfortunately, physical copies are only in the U.K. but I will be getting some once they are sent to me from the printer. However, the magazine is available online and downloadable in a multiple page PDF here:

http://www.nowthensheffield.blogspot.com

PC users, right click on the cover image.
Mac users, option click on the cover image.

Animal Rights

2009-07-31T11:59:00.000-07:00

So anyone who know me knows that I am a huge animal rights person, hence the reason I am donating a portion of my proceeds from ALL of my art shows next year to different animal rights organizations. Great Video about 200 rescued dogs finding new homes. Take some time to watch.

Check out these great organizations as well:

http://www.bestfriends.org/
http://network.bestfriends.org/golocal/chicago/news.aspx?pID=11883
http://www.northernillinoispugrescue.org/Home2.asp

Best internet video........eva.

2009-07-31T09:19:00.000-07:00

So I have been kinda burned out and bummed on the day gig lately and I am actively seeking a new career move. Don't get me wrong, I am thankful to have a job but I am not fully using my potential or skill level. Every time I start to get annoyed, I watch this. If you don't have a dry sense of humor, you will not find this nearly as great as I do.

I guess I work for free.

2009-07-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

So, rarely do I discuss the annoying aspects of being a painter/illustrator or graphic designer that has work readily accessible on the inter-web, because nobody likes an artist that moans and groans...right? Well, my good friend Project Detonate got into the conversation today about being approached by shitty cry-core, emo bands, established clothing companies, non-existent clothing companies, vinyl toy brands, record labels or motorcycle companies wanting free design work so "You can get your name out there..brah" Here is a sample yet pretty accurate email composed by experiences we have both had:

"Like hey man, totally need some shirt designs for my band, we're a cry-core band from Nebraska, just go nuts, though we are in a tight budget, maybe you can do it for free, then when we get signed to vagrant records we can cut you a check, or take you on tour? whichever man let us know like totally into it, just totally let us know, toats? yeah its short for totally. so like toats! Oh yeah BTW, you will get full credit on our Myspace page and Facebook...we will also do a super gnarles Twitter Tweety Twat. I hope you are down, we are all in college so the budget is tight but we can totally hook you up with stickers and put you on the guest list."

The reason I am posting this conversation is this: I don't paint, design or draw for free. I would never have the nerve to walk into Taco Bell and ask for free Cinna-Twists with the promise of "A sweet Myspace bulletin" Unfortunately, we do not live in a world where "props" on your Facebook blog is gonna pay my mortgage.

Within the past year, I have been approached by clothing brands, record labels, toy companies, motorcycle brands, chip companies and "serious art collectors"....90% of them either wanted free work, heavily detailed work on a $40 budget or...I actually had one guy just contact me and ask me if I had any available free paintings.

Whenever I get commissioned for designs or a painting, I always go above and beyond and generally include fun little extras because I like and appreciate doing those things for people who help support me. So please, unless you are serious about hiring me, hold the smoke and mirrors for David Copperfield and the "internet fame" for that fat piece of shit Perez Hilton.

Progressing through things.

2009-07-20T14:53:00.001-07:00

some new stuff I have been working on for my upcoming solo show at Hot Pop Gallery in Milwaukee, WI.
I think the show is gonna be called: "Rogues of the Midwest"
10.23.2009

Florida return.

2009-07-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

I am back from Florida. The show went well, met some cool people, hung with some good friends and sold a few pieces. I will write more detailed about the show once the jet-lag wears off. I 'm totally exhausted, thanks to everyone involved. Here are some pics.

Going to Florida.

2009-07-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

So, the time has come for the 3-man show that I am a part of with my parter in crime Project Detonate and Bil Betsovic. We will all be getting into Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on Thursday to hang & prep the show (opens on Saturday, July 11th)

After we set the show up, we are gonna roam the streets looking for interesting things to do. If you read this and live in the area, come on down...if not, all the work will be online and you can check it out via the web. I personally will have a ton of framed ink drawings as well as a handful of new watercolors.

Coming Soon

2009-06-18T09:30:00.001-07:00

Flatcolor Gallery in July.

2009-06-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

The good folks over at Flatcolor Gallery in Seattle asked me to be a part of their 2nd show at their gallery space. Pretty stoked, the gallery space looks amazing and working with these guys is really great. If you are in the area on July 2nd, swing by for sure. All my pieces will be recession friendly.

June 12, 2009

2009-06-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

Coming to C.A.V.E Gallery next Friday.

Brutally Triumphant.

2009-05-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

A couple posts down I talked and showed the poster that I designed for Brandon and the band Carnivale. It was for their final show as well as the final show for Dead To Fall and Devils Pie. Cleveland's Above This Fire and Veil Of Maya were also on the bill for this show.

About 2.5 years ago, I saw Carnivale open up for Mouth of The Architect in Arlington Heights and was blown away. I just don't feel like I am a good enough writer to verbally capture how amazing this band was/is. Honestly, words cannot describe how heartfelt and emotional their performance was and I am not going to try. If you were fortunate enough to see them, you know what I am talking about. Brutal, epic, triumphant and passionate are the first words that come to mind.

This leads me to the point of this post, Sunday May 24th was their final show at The Metro here in Chicago and it did not disappoint. Truly amazing to watch this band perform, giving each other high-fives prior to starting, knowing that this will be the last time that they ever grace the stage of The Metro as Carnivale. Brandon mentioned the show being bittersweet in between one of his many "mic-less" screams and it truly was. A few of the members are doing new musically projects: Altars and Color Theory but for me, Carnivale was one of the best and most passionate bands I have seen/heard live. I have been going to shows since 1995 and climbing on top of people and screaming at the top of my lungs to the final lines of 12.23.06 will truly be a memorable moment for me. Travel safe...home.

Thanks for everything fellas it was a good time and you will be terribly missed by myself and many others.

If you want to hear what I am talking about, hit up these spots:
www.myspace.com/carnivale
www.myspace.com/altarsrock
www.myspace.com/colortheoryrock

New things and thoughts.

2009-05-15T08:54:00.001-07:00

Alright, so the above image is a sneak at a project that I am working on. I am pretty stoked on it and I can't wait until I get to unveil more about it...pretty cool stuff...at least I think so.

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I hate technology. Unless it is a vector based program, I generally hate it. I am directing this post at Twitter and Facebook and all these other pages and sources that allow total strangers to know what you are doing at every waking moment of you life. I don't have a Facebook, I signed up for Twitter a year ago and never use it just because I don't think that many people are interested in my daily meetings, thoughts or what I ate for dinner. Eventually, I will have to use these because so many galleries that I am interested in use them and are deleting their Myspace page. For the time being, I am prolonging the inevitable. I would still write letters if it was socially acceptable.

"There is no God, there is no Heaven, only time on earth, who we meet and what we accomplish."

Listen to Gallows.

End of an Era.

2009-05-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

I was asked to do a poster for the final show for these bands here in Chicago.
May 24th
The Metro
3730 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60613

Blessings & Curses.

2009-04-27T10:11:00.000-07:00

I know I have not been around too much and my online presence has been minimal, but that is mainly because I am just trying to get my head together. April 19th marked one year ago that I lost my grandmother and although time does help heal, you still miss having this person around. Two days after the anniversary of my grandmas passing, I had to attend the wake of one of my college professors who was also a good friend of mine. Frank Lauro was one of the first people I met in college, we took an immediate liking to each other and would always discuss his writing, my artwork, movies, music, comic books and anything that would bring us a good laugh. I exchanged emails with Frank often and I always kept him informed on things that I was working on creatively, speaking with him just a week before he passed. Frank Lauro was a great man who I will miss a great deal and I hope one day I can reunite with him and we can finally make that graphic novel.

The way my life seems to go is, if something really awful happens, something great is right around the corner and vice versa. So, with this being said, I have some good things coming up.

Returns & Exchanges on May 2nd @ Revolution Tattoo & Art Gallery with Toby Stanger.

My interview/feature on the Nerd City podcast should be up on April 27th. www.nerdcityonline.com.

The new issue of Dangerous Ink with my 2 page spread should be hitting the states in a few weeks.

I was recently asked by a magazine from the UK to be the featured artist for a upcoming issue. I will have a color cover, pullout poster, 6 full color pages and 2 B & W pages. I will fire off more info as the time draws closer.

7.11.2009

2009-04-16T11:39:00.000-07:00

Interview now online.

2009-04-15T11:44:00.000-07:00

I hope you are all doing well and getting amped for the spring. I just wanted to send out a little email and let everyone know that the good folks at www.alittleexcessive.com took a little time and did a interview with yours truly.

I am always surprised when anyone is interested enough in my work to want to do an interview or purchase something and luckily for me, Zach the interviewer has done both...so for that, I sincerely thank him and the crew at www.alittleexcessive.com

Go check it out when you get some time. Thanks as always for those of you who always show interest in my work.
http://www.alittleexcessive.com

Building a New, Stronger Army.

2009-04-09T14:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple shots of the studio and the new army of Midwest Ghosteeez. I plan on having about 40 of these available at the May 2nd show. I got about 20 more to make between now and April 26th (when I set up my part of the show)

Some Men Just Want To Watch The World Burn.

2009-04-07T13:46:00.000-07:00

Playing with some sketches and character development for upcoming paintings. Most of these characters will be at the show on May 2nd at Revolution Tattoo & Art Gallery( See 2 posts down for full info on show)

Minor Changes.

2009-04-03T16:44:00.000-07:00

I decided to change my art for the Returns & Exchanges postcard. I wanted to use a current piece that I just finished.

Come to the show. It is gonna rock face-holes.

Returns & Exchanges. Next art show info.

2009-03-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

Toby and I will be doing a returning show at Revolution Tattoo & Art Gallery in Chicago on May 2nd, 2009. Some of you may remember that we showed together there in June of 2007 and rocked the house.....get ready for round two.

Both Toby and I will have quite a bit of brand new and unseen work on hand and it will be pretty reasonable in price. I will also have some available work from my solo show last October at reduced prices...come buy and snatch some up if you have the means!

Cowboys & Samurai

2009-02-24T21:48:00.000-08:00

This is a snippit of my contribution to the show at Ronin Gallery in L.A. The spot is run by Peekaboo Monster from the PFOM Crew and the lineup for this grand opening show is bonkers. If your in L.A. swing by on the 27th of February...it's bound to be crazy times.

The Circus Needs You.

2009-02-17T22:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some new shots of the other piece just finished for the circus themed show in Atlanta at the Alcove Gallery. The show will be on March 6th so if you are in the area, hit it up because it looks like a amazing gallery. You can see the preliminary sketch for the new piece a few posts down...if that sort of thing interests you.

new work & things for stuff.

2009-02-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

some sneaks of the new direction. This stuff will be popping up in shows listed a few posts down.

daily sketches.

2009-02-11T20:55:00.000-08:00

I have decided to sketch in my moleskin daily in order to strengthen my drawing skills and develop my characters further. The end result being a fully finished, semi-detailed drawing for each day. Here is drawings for Tuesday & Wednesday.

Upcoming Exhibitions this year.

2009-01-28T11:25:00.000-08:00

So far, these are the exhibitions and showings that my work will be displayed throughout the year.

2.13.09- 2nd Annual CTA show (A. Okay Gallery-Chicago, IL)
2.13.09- Valentines Show (Revolution Gallery-Chicago, IL)
2.27.09- Cowboys & Samurai (Ronin Gallery-Echo Park, CA)
3.06.09- Cartoon Madness 4 (Alcove Gallery-Atlanta, GA)
3.06.09- Attack of the ILLAZILLA mini tour (NY, LV, CA, HI)
4.03.09- The Mutt Show (APW Gallery-New York, NY)
4.10.09- IWG Custom Show (Rocketworld Gallery-SF, CA)
5.02.09- TBD 2-man show (Revolution Gallery-Chicago, IL)
7.11.09- Chaos Amongst Allies (Pink Ghost Gallery-Miami, FL)
11.06.09- TBD solo show (Hot Pop Gallery-Milwaukee, WI)

Be on the lookout for more stuff, I never sleep.

New Things started.

2009-01-02T10:59:00.000-08:00

Drawing done in some spare time. My new paintings are gonna have more interesting characters and some more detailing...trying to raise the bar for 2009. I have 3 major shows this year as well as some great group exhibitions I have been asked to be a part of...more on that as details are released.

12.05.2008......In Philly.

2008-11-04T12:05:00.000-08:00

Glad to be a part of this show and be exhibiting alongside some of these rad artists. If you live in Philadelphia, hit this up for sure!

12.05.2008

2008-10-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

Coming soon. Chicago, IL.

East Coast X Midwest X A Okay Official

Back to Basics.

2008-10-20T13:33:00.000-07:00

I am returning back to my roots of watercolor & ink painting. I am not done with acrylic & spray-paint on wood, just taking a break from it for a bit. Here is some new stuff.

Solo show pics. Arrival, Install, Reception.

2008-10-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

I got ton to still go through, here a some though.

Various install pictures. Opening reception pictures. The red dots mean things are sold. Awesome.

Almost here.

2008-09-30T20:47:00.000-07:00

Install teasers.

Stuff will go on sale at 12:00 p.m. On Friday, Oct. 3rd.

http://www.artchitecturegallery.com

by the way, my site is down due to lack of paying the hosting the bill.

solo show sneak peeks.

2008-09-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

My solo show is just a couple weeks away and I am becoming increasingly more anxious, nervous and excited. Having a solo show is hard work, having a solo show outside of your home-state....even harder and more nerve wrecking. I decided to post up some sneak peeks of some of the pieces.

Enjoy & prepare your eye-holes for the crap parade.

The Approachable Darkness

2008-09-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

84 all new mixed media paintings on metal, found objects and wood assemblage. This show will document the past year of work.

All work should be viewable and available for purchase on the day of the opening.
sign up for the email alerts at:
http://www.artchitechturegallery.com

"Matthew Ryan Sharp emerges from reclusion with An Approachable Darkness, a culmination of his past year's work. On exhibition are grim portraits of our current state; generations chained to workstations, lazily dreaming of more money, more power, and more say, but too demotivated to take action. His characters represent the lethargies of this American life; clowns and corporate stiffs and the like in between. Using surfaces such as weathered woods and metals, and acrylic and spray paints as his mediums, he has created a series of work inspired by the desires, fears and vices of the average Joe. Encouraged by dissolution and union, hardship and camaraderie, Matthew consistently strives to develop new methods for creating his art. He metaphoric character concepts continue to evolve over time, as does his message and technique."
Opening reception 7-10 pm Friday, 3 October 2008

The Trojan Horse.

2008-07-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

If you are a visual or sonic artist of any kind and are not familiar with The Orphan Works bill that congress is trying to pass...inform yourself and inform others. Listen to the video, very informative.

Blacktooth Skateboards

2008-07-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

I just finished up this skateboard design for Austin over at Blacktooth Skateboards. This is currently in the production process and should be available by mid August. You can contact either myself or Austin at Blacktooth skateboards for ordering instructions. Support Midwest artists and companies:

http://www.blacktoothskateboards.com

Energy Drinks & Sleeping Pills.

2008-05-16T16:51:00.000-07:00

Coming to an abandoned structure near you.

To the streets.

2008-04-07T23:43:00.000-07:00

These are somewhere in Illinois.

"Everyday is a struggle, it's only going to get worse."

There was actually one more large one, but it was torn down before I got a picture.....Jenn thinks it was the mormons down the street, I am gonna prepare for battle.

God Bless The Working Stiff.

2008-03-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

Been busy. Painting quite a bit, rolling out some paste-ups and getting little sleep. The above images are my most recent wheatpaste adventure, along with for "sneaks" of four different paintings for my show in October. I will try to update this a bit more than I have been, there are some cool things on the horizon.

Somewhere in Illinois.

2008-02-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, the studio gets a little boring.

2008-02-21T10:36:00.000-08:00

Surviving the Work-week.
Print available in May-ish or June-ish.

Hello My Name is Chicago.

2008-02-14T22:55:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneaky peek of my piece for the show on Feb. 22

No shortage of Midwestern roadside memorials.

2008-02-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

3 color silkscreen print.
Coming in March.

Attempting to bring the Ruckus.

2008-01-08T09:31:00.001-08:00

I make drawings. Some of these will be transitioned into paintings, others will be turned into pug-snacks.

2008 Has Begun.

2008-01-01T18:03:00.000-08:00

Random sketch from the notebook. I really don't wanna explain my sketches too much since they are just conceptual ideas and still in the planning stage. I would rather have people analyze, imagine and open their minds to the visual narrative that I am creating. Plus, you really don't want to know how the magician pulls the rabbit outta the hat...it spoils the magic.

The Approachable Darkness.

2007-12-28T19:42:00.001-08:00

Things in progress along with some weapons of mass construction. The winter shall prove to be extremely productive. Hopefully, curiosity is begining to become peaked.

Do Not Be Afraid.

2007-12-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

Here is a random sketch that I did at work in between projects and with some of my "down-time". This is a mixture a various different ideas for paintings all rolled into one crap-tastic sketch worthy of lining a litter box. As you can see, I enjoy drawing ghosts, bears, ugly dudes and collared shirts.....however, I am not limited to drawing just these. Do Not Be Afraid to draw something other than a skull.

10-?-2008

2007-12-26T08:01:00.000-08:00

More will be coming soon.