Blake Matthews (they/them) is a multidisciplinary artist based in Grand Rapids, MI. Matthews received their BFA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Visual Studies from Grand Valley State University in 2022, and has been the recipient of the Leroy-Neiman Fellowship from Ox-Bow School of Art and Artist Residency in Saugatuck, MI, and the Windgate Fellowship from Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN.
Matthews’ work addresses aspects of their ever-changing queer identity as it relates to their small town, Midwest upbringing. By identifying a shared spirit of ingenuity, resilience, and respect for family, chosen or otherwise, Matthews emphasizes the overlap of Queer and Midwest identities and traditions. The idea of shared identities is supported by Matthews’ studio practice, where they combine seemingly unlike materials and subject matters to form new relationships and metaphors.
Matthews’ work addresses aspects of their ever-changing queer identity as it relates to their small town, Midwest upbringing. By identifying a shared spirit of ingenuity, resilience, and respect for family, chosen or otherwise, Matthews emphasizes the overlap of Queer and Midwest identities and traditions. The idea of shared identities is supported by Matthews’ studio practice, where they combine seemingly unlike materials and subject matters to form new relationships and metaphors.