Matthew Shain: Exploring Memory Through Photographic Witness
Matthew Shain’s artistic path began in San Francisco, where he cultivated a dual passion for journalism and visual art—a combination that instilled within him an innate appreciation for storytelling and aesthetic exploration. This foundational understanding wouldn't just inform his creative endeavors; it would become the bedrock of his approach to confronting complex narratives and questioning societal monuments. Armed with a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with an emphasis on creative advertising from the University of Colorado Boulder (2000) and subsequently earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Photography from California College of the Arts (2005), Shain established a robust grounding in visual communication before embarking on a deeper artistic journey. Recognizing the importance of intellectual enrichment, he pursued an MFA in Visual Art at UC Riverside (2012), cementing his commitment to rigorous artistic investigation and expanding his creative capabilities.
This formative period profoundly shaped Shain’s worldview, fostering a fascination with confronting uncomfortable truths—particularly concerning monuments erected to honor figures like Jefferson Davis—and prompting him to consider the lasting impact of history on our contemporary consciousness. It was from this intellectual engagement that emerged “Post-Monuments,” his groundbreaking photographic project. The series powerfully captures the stark black & white image of a memorial in Memphis, Tennessee, serving as a catalyst for viewers to contemplate memory and grapple with the enduring legacy of past actions. Shain’s meticulous attention to detail—a hallmark of his artistic practice—translates into images that resonate with emotion and distill the essence of their subjects.
Shain's artistic career has traversed major cities including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta and New Orleans, allowing him to absorb diverse influences and perspectives. His exhibitions have garnered considerable acclaim from institutions such as The Museum of Fine Arts Houston and the Special Collections of Rivera Library at UC Riverside, demonstrating his dedication to sharing his vision with a wider audience. Beyond showcasing his work, Shain’s contributions to the art world extend into publications like Humble Arts Collector’s Guide to Emerging Art Photography (2008), Harper’s Ferry Review (asu press), New York Magazine and Vice.com – reflecting his ability to communicate artistic ideas effectively across various mediums.
His photographic style prioritizes black & white imagery, a deliberate choice that amplifies the emotional impact of his compositions and underscores the significance of form over color. This stylistic preference aligns seamlessly with Shain’s thematic concerns: remembrance, confronting difficult realities, and challenging accepted interpretations of history. Ultimately, Matthew Shain's work stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to artistic exploration and his capacity to inspire thoughtful contemplation about how past events continue to shape our understanding of the present.
