Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Tisdale.
Hi Matt, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I was born in Akron, OH. I was lucky to have supportive and creative parents growing up. I enjoyed painting and drawing at a very young age. My mother was an art teacher, and she nurtured my love of painting and drawing. After high school, I graduated from the Columbus College of Art and Design in 2003. After college, I started working with a friend and mentor at a production art studio. We created murals and faux finishes for commercial and residential buildings. We also worked on sculpture and painting restorations. Then, in 2007, the housing market crash hit us and I had to think about what was next. Luckily another friend called me about a full-time Graphic Design and Illustration job at HOLLISTER. I have been with Hollister since 2008. On top of my Graphic Design career, I have a loving family and a side gig working art festivals. I love painting, and I show my personal work at 4 to 6 festivals a year. It is a true passion!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Is the road ever really smooth for an artist? My biggest hurdle early on was worrying about my college loans. I borrowed a ton of money for my art career. I had anxiety as to how I was gonna pay it off. The good thing about college loans is that they are looked at as “good loans” in the eyes of banks and creditors. They don’t hurt your credit… As long as you make payments! I am still working on those payments today. Another major struggle, but an amazing one, is being a good father and partner while balancing an art career. My wife and daughter challenge me every day. They are my best critics. 🙂
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a very versatile artist and designer. I pride myself on not being a specialist. I have been able to adapt to multiple ways of art making. However, my personal work does have a “style.” It took years to develop that style, and I love displaying that style in festivals and galleries.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Yes! Too many to name. The best advice I can give is to look at your peers, competitors, and mentors. Aspire to make what they are making and try to make it better! Your style will develop with time.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @matttisdale0
Image Credits
Matt Tisdale
