M.R.Volpe is a contemporary artist living and working in Brooklyn, New York.

Matt’s body of work is immense, and spans decades, with the subject matter constantly evolving. His approach is experimental and inspired by his surroundings and interactions. Using a wide variety of materials and textures, Matt builds each work with precise care and patience. Some of his pieces will take years before he feels they are truly complete.

The process and application of material is what interests Matt the most. Nothing is too precious while searching for the final and realized composition. He builds just to take away, cutting back layers of hardened fabrics or softly scraping the surface. A finished painting that rests too long may end up being painted white and begun again, with only the ghosts of texture left as the steppingstones for the next revelation.

This experimental approach has refined his work over the years. A self-taught artist, Matt gained most of his knowledge and techniques by reading books layered in art history, exploring contemporary artists, and submerging himself in the culture that inspires him. Artist biographies are his leisure reading, and art museums and galleries are where he spends his free time. Working for many years as a housepainter and display designer throughout Philadelphia and New York, construction and building became a quick foundation. Matt often constructs his own stretchers and frames and will also experiment with builders and found materials in addition to oil and acrylic paint.

Matt’s work has been exhibited throughout Pennsylvania and New York and is in private collections worldwide.