Post-Monuments, Memphis (Jefferson Davis, erected 1964)

Matthew Shain: Exploring Memory Through Photographic Witness

Matthew Shain’s artistic journey began in San Francisco, where he cultivated a dual passion for journalism and visual art—a combination that instilled within him an innate understanding of storytelling and aesthetic exploration. 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 foundation in visual communication before delving deeper into artistic theory. Recognizing the importance of broadening intellectual horizons, he pursued an MFA in Visual Art at UC Riverside (2012), cementing his commitment to rigorous artistic investigation and amplifying his creative capabilities. This formative experience profoundly shaped Shain’s artistic approach, fostering a deep fascination with confronting complex narratives and interrogating societal monuments—particularly those commemorating controversial figures like Jefferson Davis. His groundbreaking project, “Post-Monuments,” emerged directly from this intellectual engagement, resulting in impactful photographic documentation that meticulously examines the lingering repercussions of historical legacies on contemporary consciousness. The series powerfully captures the stark black & white image of a memorial erected in Memphis, Tennessee, prompting viewers to contemplate memory and the enduring influence of past actions—a deliberate choice mirroring the stylistic conventions of influential photographers like UTA Barth. Shain’s artistic career has traversed major urban centers including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta and New Orleans. He has presented his work extensively in prestigious institutions such as The Museum of Fine Arts Houston and the Special Collections of Rivera Library at UC Riverside, garnering critical acclaim for his conceptual rigor and visual acuity. Beyond exhibitions, 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, Vice.com and Time Magazine—demonstrating his ability to communicate artistic ideas effectively across diverse media platforms. His photographic practice is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a deliberate use of black & white imagery—a stylistic decision that powerfully conveys emotion and emphasizes the core essence of subject matter. Shain’s work speaks to themes of remembrance, confronting uncomfortable truths, and questioning established narratives. It stands as testament to his unwavering dedication to artistic exploration and his remarkable capacity to provoke thoughtful reflection on history's enduring relevance in shaping our present understanding—a legacy that continues to inspire artists today.

• Notable Exhibitions: The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, UC Riverside Special Collections
• Publications: Humble Arts Collector’s Guide to Emerging Art Photography, Harper’s Ferry Review, New York Magazine, Vice.com
• MFA Fellowship: University of California, Riverside, Gluck Foundation Fellowship