Relics 2015: Nest

For eleven years, mixed-media artist Matt Morris has structured his work around one theme: the oft-prickly relationship between nature and technology.

“I like to feel like I have a purpose making art,” said Morris, who sets his sights on “pictures that provoke thought and maybe inspire someone to think about something in a new way.”

When it ultimately takes its place on the gallery wall, a Morris piece is a photograph. But it’s a photograph of paintings, sculptures, found objects, and whatever else Morris deems appropriate for a particular composition.

Presenting the assemblage as a photographic print—which was a fairly recent choice for Morris—allows the artist to more quickly and wholly translate his ideas into art. 

Before, Morris would paint directly onto photographs and adorn his works with tangible objects. Every added element had a weight and finality. “The painter spends so long on one piece,” said Morris. “Getting it just right, moving things, changing things.”

Now he’s free to make “on-the-fly” changes—reflections of his developing perspective. But he envisions his work on a larger scale than just “personal narrative.” 

“With building, construction, energy use—our relationship with nature is something that we have to keep in mind,” said the environmentally conscious Morris. “Not because we’re going to destroy the earth—the earth is going to go on without us. But we’re affecting our ability to live within it because we act in an irresponsible way.

Morris is exhibiting works in the Healthcare Gallery 2.0 Invitational Exhibition on the fourth floor of the Chase Towers (451 Florida Street) as part of “Prospect.3+BR: Notes Upriver.” The exhibit, curated by Raina Wirta and Rodneyna Hart, runs from October 25—January 25, 2015.