INTERVIEW | MATTHEW MORPHEUS

In the shadows of Great Metropolises, where art meets infinity, lives Matthew Morpheus—a master of abstraction, whose real name, Serhii Matveichenko, echoes his Ukrainian heritage. He is an artist whose works have been honored with international awards and recognition, from Beijing to Moscow, from New York to the heart of Europe, where each stroke and color embodies innovation and passion.

Having lived in Ukraine, then in Israel, and now in the United Kingdom, Morpheus has turned his art into a cosmopolitan dialogue, where each piece is a letter to the world, filled with symbolism and profound meaning. His techniques are a symbiosis of traditional and contemporary, where abstractions created with gelly roll pens, fluorescent cosmic landscapes, and collages on current themes become a bridge between reality and fantasy. The works of the artist fully convey the entire atmosphere of the 21st Century New Age concept, with its unique new cultural diversity and unusual genres and ideas.

Matthew Morpheus is not just an artist; he is a philosopher of his time, whose works are a mirror of the 21st century, reflecting new cultural diversity and unusual genres that together create a portrait of the modern world, full of contrasts and discoveries. He is also an author of non-commercial publications as “Zero Emotion”, “Elysium” and “Philosophy of the XXI Century: On the Other Side of Truth”.

Favorite saying – “Any problem has a solution if the palm holds a charged Colt”.

Matthew Morpheus – Portrait

https://www.instagram.com/matthew_morpheus | https://mrmatthewmorpheus.crevado.com

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In my artistic journey, I explore the complex relationship between technology and human existence, delving into realms where the organic and the synthetic converge. My work often reflects a dystopian vision of the future, questioning the implications of our increasing dependence on technology in our daily lives.

Through vivid imagery and dynamic compositions, I aim to evoke a sense of unease combined with beauty. Each work serves as a commentary on the fragility of humanity amidst the permanence of machines. I use mixed media, combining traditional techniques with digital elements to create immersive experiences that challenge viewers’ perception of reality.

My inspiration comes from the intersection of art, science fiction and contemporary culture. I draw inspiration from literature, film, and technological advances to create narratives that resonate with the struggle for identity and existence in a rapidly changing world.

As a storyteller, I invite viewers to engage with my work on multiple levels, encouraging introspection and dialogue. My goal is to provoke thought and emotion, paving the way for a deeper understanding of our world – a world in which humanity must navigate the complexities of a future intertwined with the nature of technology.

At a time when connections are often virtual, I aim to remind us of the inherent beauty and vulnerability of the human spirit by continuing to explore this delicate balance through my art.

New Gods , Collage, 2022, 21×29.7cm © Matthew Morpheus

As someone with a Ukrainian heritage who has lived in Ukraine, Israel, and now the UK, how do you feel your experiences in these countries have shaped the themes and symbolism in your artwork?

Each of the countries I have lived in has left a vivid mark on my art.

In Ukraine, the rich culture and turbulent history has shaped my vision in using bold, contrasting colours and stark imagery to represent resilience and hope. The current war in my Homeland has greatly affected my life, the lives of my loved ones and my perception of reality. I have become more philosophical about everything that is going on.

In Israel, I encountered a unique mix of cultures, religions and conflicts, which gave me the opportunity to think more deeply about themes of hope and rebirth. This diversity has inspired me to create work that explores the boundaries and interactions between different cultures.

Living in the UK, I have been influenced by western culture and its approach to contemporary art. This allowed me to broaden my horizons and experiment with new techniques and concepts, which enriched my perception of art as a means of expression.

Overall, my experiences in these countries have shaped the subject matter of my work, infusing it with symbolism that reflects both personal and universal experiences.

Your art has been showcased across various global metropolises, from Beijing to New York. How have these different cultural landscapes influenced your artistic approach and style?

Cultural landscapes serve as a rich tapestry, providing endless inspiration and helping to shape my inner artistic voice.

Each metropolis in which I have had the honour of presenting my work has been a source of inspiration and mysterious discoveries for me. In one of them, I felt the breath of history that permeates everything from grand buildings to narrow streets. In another city, where life is boiling and bustling, I encountered an incredible diversity of cultures and ideas. This inspiration opened up endless possibilities for me to experiment. I began to use innovative methods, combining traditional artistic practices with digital technology, allowing my work to come to life and interact with the public. Each new painting became not just a static image, but a living dialogue that engages the viewer in a fascinating journey.

Art for me has become not just a way to express myself, but a powerful tool to create connections between people, exploring their common experiences and the diversity of cultural contexts, conflicts and protests.

Your works are known for blending traditional techniques with contemporary elements, such as gelly roll pen abstractions and fluorescent cosmic landscapes. How did you develop this unique artistic style?

Art is an opportunity to express oneself through new formats and technologies. Art is a dance between past and present, tradition and innovation.

I started experimenting with gel roller pens to bring a sense of spontaneity and fluidity to my work, allowing for more dynamic and abstract expressions. On the other hand, fluorescent space landscapes are my way of exploring the unknown, the vast and uncharted territories of imagination and space.

I believe that art should be alive and dynamic, so I actively explore new materials and techniques. Each new work is an opportunity for me to experiment and find unexpected solutions, which makes my style constantly evolving. This process of exploration and self-expression has become a source of inspiration for me, allowing me to create works that are not only unique but also resonate with the viewer on a deep level.

The way of a pilgrim , Gelly roll pen on paper 2013 , 21×29.7cm © Matthew Morpheus

You describe your art as a “cosmopolitan dialogue” and a “letter to the world.” What messages do you hope to communicate through your work?

We live in an Era of Change. Through my art I aim to inspire people to reflect on their place in this vast and complex world. And I hope to evoke emotion, encourage introspection and inspire viewers to see beyond their immediate surroundings, realising the beauty and complexity of the bigger human picture. My art is an invitation to explore, reflect and unite through a universal language of images.

Your pieces reflect the cultural diversity and complex contrasts of the 21st century. What role do you think contemporary art plays in capturing and expressing these societal dynamics?

Contemporary art is the voice of the people, the voice of the streets. It is a powerful means of expressing a diverse society in the 21st century. It acts as a mirror, reflecting social problems and global challenges. It can both divide society and connect it.

Thus, through my works such as ‘New World Order’ and ‘New Gods’, I aim to fulfil the role of a guide, helping viewers to realise the connection between their inner world and the external reality. I hope to inspire people to find their place in this new century by opening up new horizons and opportunities for deep reflection.

New World Order , Collage , 2022 , 21×29.7cm © Matthew Morpheus

The 21st-century New Age concept is a central theme in your work. How do you interpret this idea, and what aspects of modern culture do you find most inspiring to depict?

For me, this is not just an idea, but an entire philosophy that represents the transition of humanity to a new level of awareness, spirituality and intercultural interaction.

A person can display only one emotion on his face – fear, joy, sorrow, sympathy. But in the soul a person is many-sided. All intertwined experiences, from love to hate, create the most important feeling in the depths of his soul. And its name is Zero Emotion. And it is this emotion that I try to catch and capture in my works.

Your artworks often serve as a bridge between reality and fantasy. How do you balance these two elements in your work, and why is it important for you to explore this boundary?

Thank you for your insightful question. Balancing reality and fantasy in my artwork is a delicate dance that I find both challenging and exciting. Let’s look at this process on the creation of one of my best paintings, ‘Eden’. I often start with elements taken from the real world – textures, spacescapes and emotions that resonate with the viewer. I then allow my imagination to introduce fantastical elements that transform these basics into something otherworldly.

Reality can be harsh and limiting, while fantasy opens the door to possibilities and dreams. By merging these two realms, I aim to invite viewers to rethink their perceptions, see beyond the ordinary and explore their own imagination. Ultimately, it’s about creating a space where reality is enriched by fantasy, allowing for a deeper connection with art and the emotions it evokes.

In this way, my work invites the viewer on a journey where one can see the familiar and the unknown at the same time, creating a unique experience that stimulates the imagination and inspires the discovery of new worlds.

You have authored works like “Zero Emotion” and “Philosophy of the XXI Century: On the Other Side of Truth.” How does your writing complement or contrast with your visual art, and do you see one influencing the other?

My books and paintings mutually enrich and complement each other, creating a more holistic and multi-layered understanding of the themes I care about. This synthesis allows me to more fully express my thoughts and feelings using both word and image.

In Zero Emotion, I explore the theme of emotional alienation and the search for meaning in the modern world. These ideas are also reflected in my paintings, where I use abstract shapes and bright colours to convey these states.

‘Philosophy of the 21st Century: On the Other Side of Truth’ deals with issues of truth and perception, which is also intertwined with my collage artworks that explore the boundaries of reality and fantasy. Writing allows me to explore and conceptualize themes in greater depth, which are then visualized through paint and line.

Your favorite saying is, “Any problem has a solution if the palm holds a charged Colt.” How does this sentiment resonate with your artistic philosophy, and do you see this mindset reflected in the themes or tone of your work?

The meaning of the phrase ‘Every problem has a solution with a loaded Colt in your hand’ is about determination and self-confidence. This is reflected in my work through the themes of struggle, overcoming obstacles and fortitude. I strive to show that even in the most difficult situations there is always a way to a solution if we are willing to act with determination and courage.

In my work, you can often see hidden symbols of strength and determination, such as bright colours and dynamic compositions that convey a sense of energy and willingness to act. This reflects my approach to life and creativity: not to be afraid of challenges, but to seek ways to overcome them with confidence and creativity. In this way, my artistic style and philosophy of life are closely linked, inspiring me to create work that conveys this strength and confidence to the viewer.

Looking ahead, how do you envision your artistic style evolving? Are there new techniques, mediums, or themes you’re excited to explore that may differ from your current work?

Now I am incredibly lucky to be in the beautiful country of Scotland, where I have become part of the Abandoned Artist Group. This forced relocation has expanded my artistic voice, adding an awareness of the fragility of our transient world amidst the chaos, in the unceasing quest of the human spirit for beauty and solace. Together we plan to create various significant projects for society.

In addition, looking to the future, I see my artistic evolution as a constant process of exploration and experimentation. My current work already combines traditional techniques with contemporary elements, but I am keen to go even further.

I am particularly attracted to the idea of working with new media such as digital art and virtual reality. These technologies open up completely new horizons for creativity and immerse viewers in worlds that were previously inaccessible.

In addition, I aim to delve deeper into themes of interconnectedness and the impact of technology on human relationships. As our world becomes increasingly digital, I see the potential to explore how these changes shape our perception of reality and truth.

I already have some work in progress and hopefully by next summer’s art fair I will be able to finalize artworks and installations. So keep an eye on social media. It’s going to be interesting.