jeffrey matter: woodworking artistry and the senator tree
A unique solo show: wood it matter?
Our gallery's inaugural exhibition, held on February 3rd, 2017, was a truly special event – a solo show featuring the remarkable woodworking art of Jeffrey Matter. It was an honor to host such an exquisite display as our very first show. The exhibition's unique story centered around a tragic loss and subsequent artistic opportunity, making it a memorable experience for all involved. We were thrilled to secure Jeffrey Matter for this premiere.
The story of the senator tree
The artwork displayed had a poignant origin. It stemmed from the remains of The Senator, a magnificent 3,500-year-old tree located in Longwood, Florida. The nearby park, Big Tree Park, was named in its honor. Sadly, in 2012, this iconic tree was lost to a devastating fire. In a remarkable act of preservation, three artists were granted permission to utilize wood salvaged from the burned tree to create art.
Jeffrey matter: a chosen artist
Jeffrey Matter's already established reputation for exceptional artistry led to his selection as one of the chosen artists. His previous work was highly regarded, making him a perfect fit for this unique project. The opportunity to work with the wood from The Senator added another layer of significance to his creations, resulting in deeply moving and beautifully crafted pieces. The resulting artwork was a testament to resilience and the power of transformation.
Ripley's believe it or not & a final display
Adding to the exhibition’s appeal, we had the privilege of displaying pieces that had already been purchased by Ripley's Believe It Or Not. This offered attendees a unique opportunity to see these already-acquired works one last time before they left for their permanent home. It was a fitting tribute to the enduring popularity and collectibility of Jeffrey Matter's art.
A successful opening and community response
The opening night was well-attended, with a vibrant and enthusiastic crowd of art lovers. Several pieces were sold throughout the evening, demonstrating the audience's appreciation for Jeffrey Matter’s talent and the story behind the artwork. The event fostered a sense of community and celebration, marking a successful start for our gallery and a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Media coverage and further exploration
Shortly after we opened, Jeffrey Matter was featured on local news, News 13, highlighting his unique artistic process. Inspired by this report, we reached out to him, and to our delight, he agreed to participate in our inaugural show. You can view the interview here. The interview provides further insights into his creative journey and the inspiration behind his work.