Matthew Larson: Autofocus

Matthew Larson, Autofocus
January 28 - March 5, 2022

Massey Klein Gallery is pleased to present Autofocus, a solo exhibition of new work by Matthew Larson. The exhibition will be on view from January 28 through March 5. An opening reception will be held on Saturday, January 29, from 4 - 7 pm. This is the artist’s second solo exhibition with the gallery. For press inquiries or questions regarding works available, please email info@masseyklein.com.

Matthew Larson’s practice involves intricately embedding singular strands of fiber into sewn velcro panels to create seamless tapestry-like surfaces. Through controlled use of line, Larson achieves precise patterns and striations of color and texture. Optically, these works appear to follow a traditional warp and weft structure, but are built on a single plane. While solidly within the fiber art lens, Larson’s work holds close ties to painting, drawing, and minimalism, employing works rich with subtlety and nuance.

Through a labor-intensive process developed by the artist, Larson achieves precise patterns and striations of color and texture working primarily with mass-produced and commonplace materials.

In this exhibition, Larson presents three series of works, each holding specific resonance for the artist and exploring distinct visual systems.

The first series positions an undulating form as the central motif, with areas of different color activated as the shape reaches the edges of the composition. Whereas his previous works were frequently monochromatic, this approach represents a new development in Larson’s artistic philosophy and practice. In this series, the artist has loosened the constraints of process and composition, opening the work to more expansive possibilities.

The Chainlink series began as an exploration into tessellation patterns created by alternating marled and solid-colored fibers. These works reference the structure of a weaving while creating the illusion of a three-dimensional surface. This series explores form and pattern in dialogue with the viewer as the vibrational energy seems to move and activate the surface.

The works of the Chroma series are based on the artist's interest in fundamental principles of color theory. The pairing of specific colors changes the viewers perception of them. Larson extends this theme by grouping the works as an array, building complex relationships among them.

Larson’s work references the hard edges, limited palettes and stripped-down geometric shapes of Minimalism while introducing sensuous, tactile and sculptural surfaces. Similarly, he explores the nature of perception by creating optical illusions while playfully bring in ethereal variegated hues.

Matthew Larson has exhibited internationally and extensively across the country, including in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Marfa, Denver, and East Hampton, most recently in the group exhibition The Nth Dimension at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver. Larson graduated with a BFA in Painting and Drawing from Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in Denver, Colorado, in 2006. His work has been featured in print and online publications, including Art in America, Surface Design Journal, Artnet, and Sight Unseen. He lives and works in Brooklyn, New York.

The artist dedicates this show to Clark Richert, a brilliant artist, supportive teacher, and generous friend.

Massey Klein Gallery is located at 124 Forsyth St. New York, NY 10002. Gallery hours are Thursday - Sunday 12pm-5pm.  To schedule a private viewing, email info@masseyklein.com.