Written by: Ava Sterbin
Another of two muralists selected for this year’s Art Infusion, Matthew Mederer (Cool Disco Rich), is originally from Iselin, New Jersey, but now resides in Chicago, Illinois with his wife. His artwork is displayed throughout the country in Illinois, Wisconsin, New York, and Missouri. His work reaches worldwide locations too, including Costa Rica, Italy, and South Korea. Since becoming an artist, Matthew has always created art for public consumption, giving him a sense of accomplishment and warmth. It’s comforting knowing he can make such vast impacts on the communities he travels to.
As a kid to today, Matthew has always enjoyed making art. He remembers as far back to 3rd and 4th grade when a few of his innocent antics got him in a bit of trouble. “In elementary school, I got called down into the guidance counselor’s office because I tagged the mailbox at the bus stop and somebody saw me and told the school.” he shared. He wasn’t in big trouble, but that’s when he knew he had something special.
During school, he always pushed himself to the highest of learning. Matthew studied Math, Astrophysics, taught himself computer programming, and how to be an artist. He explained that no matter what he puts his mind to, he always tries to do the hardest thing he can. “I just always try to challenge myself. I would say maybe even 5 years ago, I wouldn’t be able to paint what I’m painting here,” said Matthew. His abilities have truly shown within his works.
During this time, Matthew also discovered the greatest influence on his art: graffiti culture. He explained how he was always interested in hip hop culture including breakdancing, rap music, graffiti, and DJing. He saw himself creating graffiti art as a way of participating in something he loved and looked up to. Look ahead to today and Matthew has been a graffiti artist for 20 years.
Although eager to start creating his piece for Art Infusion, he expressed the internal conflict many artists have when faced with leaving a piece of art in a community. “It’s hard because you’re leaving it there and you want to do your best. Murals are created in a limited amount of time. Sometimes you’re fighting with yourself and you’re fighting with the wall,” said Matthew.
Being a first-time visitor to Janesville, he expressed how he was looking forward to Art Infusion and exploring what Janesville is all about. He expressed there was a lot of emotion present knowing he was leaving a lasting mark on our community.
