About the Show

"Monster" by Matt Schwenk is a powerful gallery show that explores his journey from an innocent childhood to an adulthood marked by relentless personal trauma. His artwork portrays the ever-present monsters symbolizing life's harsh realities, capturing the struggle between internal darkness and the remaining fragments of his identity. Schwenk's pieces invite viewers to witness his ongoing battle, reflecting on whether the true monster lies within or in the world around him. This exhibition is a testament to resilience and the enduring human spirit, creating a shared space of understanding and empathy.

Artist Statement

Life is a funny thing… Mine started out so beautifully… I was loved, I mattered, I was safe. Then when I got older, the world happened… I went from being bright eyed and trusting, to realizing the world was filled with Monsters. They were never under my bed, they were always waiting, just outside my door. Once I saw them… the dream was over. And once they saw me, they never stopped, to take a day off…Whatever they wanted, they took. I’d like to say that once they got what they wanted, they moved on… but sadly they did not. They stayed… And now I live with them every single day of my life. I can’t put into words what they did or what was taken from me, but I hope I can show you what’s left of the man that’s still here. My name is Matt Schwenk, and behind these eyes, there is a monster…I don’t know if that monster is me?…or them?… But I will battle that monster till the day I die. Whatever light I have left, I will share it with you. And whatever light you shine on me, I will magnify it. Welcome to the world behind my eyes. Thank You. -Matt Schwenk

Learn more about the artist at mschwenk.com.