Matthew Shain: Exploring Memory Through Photographic Witness

Matthew Shain’s artistic journey began in San Francisco, where he honed his skills in journalism and visual art—a dual pursuit that instilled a foundational 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 strong grounding in visual communication before delving deeper into artistic theory. Recognizing the need for expanded intellectual horizons, he pursued an MFA in Visual Art at UC Riverside (2012), solidifying his commitment to rigorous artistic investigation and furthering his creative capabilities. This formative experience profoundly shaped Shain’s approach to artmaking, fostering a fascination with confronting complex narratives and interrogating societal monuments—particularly those commemorating controversial figures like Jefferson Davis. His groundbreaking project, “Post-Monuments,” emerged from this intellectual engagement, resulting in powerful photographic documentation that examines the lingering impact 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. Shain’s artistic career has spanned across major cities including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Atlanta and New Orleans. He has exhibited his work extensively, garnering recognition from institutions such as The Museum of Fine Arts Houston and the Special Collections of Rivera Library at UC Riverside. Furthermore, Shain's contributions to the art world extend beyond exhibitions; he’s been featured in 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 versatility as a communicator of artistic ideas. His photographic practice is characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a deliberate use of black & white imagery—a stylistic choice that lends itself powerfully to conveying emotion and emphasizing the 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 dedication to artistic exploration and his ability to provoke thoughtful reflection on history's enduring relevance in shaping our present understanding.