From a Gender-Bender to a Surrealist Photographer

Students are encouraged to support a fellow student Matthew Eck, by attending the reception of his photography exhibit on March 7th 2008 from 5pm-8pm to meet the artist, socialize with others, while discussing Eck’s art over a few refreshments.

The show will be held at the “Rusty Matcutter” in Glens Falls at 21 Cooper Street.

The pieces at the show include Eck’s current collection of work, covering many different ideas and emotions through photography. Krystal Hullet, a fine arts program classmate of Eck’s stated, “It takes a lot of guts for a student, especially one whose work is so controversial. I think he’s taking a huge step and a lot of people would have backed out or not taken the opportunity but I think his show at the Rusty Matcutter is a really great achievement.” Hullet considers his work to be experimental. She said, “He’s unpredictable and [his] work is just as erratic as he is. He’s gone from gender bending to surrealist photography.”

A Waterford native, Eck attended Waterford-Halfmoon High School, where his high school art teacher motivated him to become an artist. Eck said, “Growing up I always held a strong ability in art. Art is my passion.” In May 2006 Eck first gained exposure from one of his photographs “Bleak Past,” which was accepted at the Hyde Collection in Glens Falls. The Hyde collection is an art museum which holds an annual juried art show for students. Another one of his photographs “Main Street” was printed onto limited edition cards for the President’s Circle. The Rusty Matcutter show is Eck’s first private exhibition and Hullet stated “[This gives] him a notch of experience under his belt, the fact that he’s so young with this great opportunity can only open up more doors in his future.”

Eck said his techniques have been refined with extensive drawing and painting. His art class has worked on projects that are from different time periods and styles. Eck said, “Taking the fine arts program here at HVCC has been an experience like none other. I couldn’t ask for better professors.” He said professors Thomas Lail, Tara Fracalossi and Jean O’malley were his biggest resource, as they are knowledgeable and experienced. Concerning the diverse student body Eck added, “The interaction I have with older students that share the same studio guide me in the right direction. We have educated conversations which motivate me to create.”

He also said the art studio at HVCC is a great resource with its comfortable atmosphere. He stated “The studio has become my second home due to the amount of hours that are spent in the studio creating.” Another important resource Eck mentioned was the new teaching gallery from which brings artists from around the country to inspire the fine arts students.

Hullet said “[Matt] is unpredictable and really bold. I mean he’s willing to drive 45 minutes in the freezing cold to walk around Thatcher park and look for the perfect shot.”

Hullet encouraged students to attend the reception stating, “Matt’s show is a great example of what students can do, and I think people should be there to support him. He’s got a great start and he’s taking off really quick, I’m looking forward to seeing what else he comes up with.”

For more information on the reception call the Rusty Matcutter at 518-932-2477.