About

I am interested in the human condition, particularly when stripped away from social contexts, contemplating our place within nature and relationship to the natural world.  There is an undercurrent of connections in my work, between the self and others, human or otherwise, also to the past and future.  Black and white appeals to me in this respect, with its ability to transcend linear time.  I frequently use myself in the images, either like a prop or to create a performative narrative.  Artists such as Arno Rafael Minkkinen, Anne Brigman and Francis Bacon are among my influences.  Further inspiration is taken from posthuman theory, particularly that of Rosi Braidotti, especially themes of transformation and interconnectivity.  Also, certain non-Western thought resonates with me, notably regarding more reciprocal, holistic connections with nature.

Bio

Matt E Lewis is a West Sussex based photographic artist with a passion for nature, above and below water.  As a keen SCUBA diver, he began his photographic journey underwater, depicting the wonders of an alien environment, before his curiosity led to more concept driven land-based work.  A wider passion for photography and nature developed from his diving experience and fourteen months travelling, mainly in South East Asia and South America.  From these experiences, he has developed an engagement with nature and environmental causes.  He explores themes of connection, notably concerning the human relationship to nature, also human nature itself and existential themes.

Lewis has developed his practice through frequently placing himself in front of the camera, although does not consider it self-portraiture.  There is often a performative narrative to his work, with keen attention to body language and gesture.  The body itself, with complex and nuanced meanings, is a key element.  As someone who practices Buddhist insight meditation, he carries through a calm, considered approach to his work, and life, mindful of others, whether human or non-human.  Lewis is also interested in posthumanism, particularly ideas of interconnectivity and vital materialism.