Matt Smiley presents his exhibition “Work in Progress: Emotions” at 1 Hotel West Hollywood

contemporary artist Matt Smiley presented his latest exhibition at 1 Hotel West Hollywood, titled “Work in Progress: Emotions,” on November 30. The work presented is a representation of Matt’s “smiling symbolism”. The exhibition will be open to the public from December 1st to February 2024.

“In this series of paintings, I explore the complexity of human emotions through the lens of smile symbolism,” Matt explained. “The smiling face, often synonymous with happiness, becomes a powerful tool for delving into the countless emotions that define the human experience. “My paintings aim to capture the subtle and contradictory nature of our emotions.”

Matt’s art features a rich palette of vibrant colors, dynamic brushstrokes, and layered textures. His work spans a variety of unique stories, and each canvas offers viewers the opportunity to reflect on their emotions and understand the deeper complexity within them.

The innovative artist is also a filmmaker who incorporates a mix of imaginative characters, bright colors and automatic writing into his work. In addition to his influential filmmaking, Matt is also passionate about documentary making and raising awareness for social causes. His 2014 documentary, a trail of tearsfocusing on the 16 women who disappeared along Highway 16 in British Columbia.

Matt’s first solo exhibition was held in 2017 and was titled “Dreams Fizzle into Space”, which featured a 32-piece Warholian “Smiley” soup can collection. The following year he held his exhibition “History Lessons” at the LA Art Show.

A portion of the proceeds from Matt’s exhibit will be donated to the nonprofit TreePeople, which is dedicated to sustainable forestry and environmental education. The organization plants and cares for trees in forests, parks, mountain areas and residential neighborhoods and works with students and researchers to improve the environment. Whether it’s fires or food insecurity in the community, TreePeople takes the time to donate and plant trees to help the environment.