Matt Mauk
  • Home
  • Resume
    • Artist Statement
    • Work in Media
  • Three-Dimensional
    • Hothouse
    • Enamel
    • Glory Hole
    • Pewter
    • Electroforming
    • Silicone Tattoos
    • Tattoo Tools
    • Metalwork
  • Two-Dimensional
    • Drawings/Paintings
    • Graphic Design
    • Body Art
  • Virtual Reality
  • Contact

Matthew Mauk
​Artist Statement

My work explores the use of decadence and ornate embellishment as a way to mask, layer and convey information through an object. Each piece contains a reference to specific periods in history where the social, political and economic hierarchy of society is blatantly displayed through the objects owned by those in power. The work explores subject matter relating to minority culture by seducing the viewer with excessive beauty as exemplified in both nature and the history of art. The use of formal characteristics in objects of hierarchy, such as a Fabergé egg or Elizabethan necklace, give these queer objects a renewed sense of power in a time that feels as though we, as a society, are politically traveling backwards.

It is not important for the viewer to approach one of the pieces with an understanding of the sexually charged object within the petals. What is important is that they lean close, take note of an intricate piercing mimicking Edwardian embroidery, close enough to observe their breath fogging the enamel and shimmer of gold. Through the examination of detail and quality, they unknowingly are witnessing a sexual object, often linked with queer culture, masked in gold and pearls. The use of semiotics and hidden language by queer individuals has been present throughout history, making these lavish objects a stand-in for a history that could have been.
​
It is my hope that viewers will discuss and point out what they see within the objects, whether it is a simple material observation, historical pattern or the silhouette of a sex toy. Decorated in polychrome enamel with gold, pearls and delicate ornamental designs, these works encourage the viewer to lean close, inspect and appreciate the layers of detail. The hidden content of gender, history and sexuality will be revealed to those that know where to look.
Proudly powered by Weebly
  • Home
  • Resume
    • Artist Statement
    • Work in Media
  • Three-Dimensional
    • Hothouse
    • Enamel
    • Glory Hole
    • Pewter
    • Electroforming
    • Silicone Tattoos
    • Tattoo Tools
    • Metalwork
  • Two-Dimensional
    • Drawings/Paintings
    • Graphic Design
    • Body Art
  • Virtual Reality
  • Contact