By: NICOLAS FIERRO
Salina Post
An aspiring Salina artist who expresses inward emotions through artwork, embodies the "struggling artist" trope after hardships and substance abuse, also uses his creative mind with incorporating high-end fashion designs is making noise throughout the community.
Xavier Matthews, has always had the artistic bones running through his body as he as been around art since his youth. Matthews showcased a unique way of displaying his artwork ever since he was young, as he eventually made this his passion. He describes growing up that his mother always complimented his pieces, which gave him the extra encouragement to do more.
“I have always been overwhelmingly wrapped up in art,” said Matthews.
Matthews became an aspiring artist when he started making art with his dad when he was younger. As time went on, he found art as a way to express his emotions and gave him comfort in doing it not only exceptionally, but peacefully.
"Art therapy is next to none, it's a great time of self reflection, meditation and a way to talk to God," he said.
As he continued to invest time in his artwork, he found out that he can make art to inspire others and keep up with what is relevant in today’s society. Even as he continues to carry on with the trends of the world, he does not mind putting in the extra time. He commented that it takes him roughly about 15-20 hours to complete a single design, even sometimes 50 plus and he does not mind it at all.
“Everything in the world is moving like a revolving door. What is relevant and cool today, might not be there tomorrow,” said Matthews.
Overcoming substance abuse
“Unfortunately, the best art in the world derives from pain and alot of my story envelops through my artwork,” said Matthews.
Matthews had a history of substance abuse, which he describes is something he battled for years before overcoming it. The major way he stood on top of his obstacles, was through art.
He commented that there are many talented people worldwide that are 'doomed by going into their own demise,' but feel that they do not have an outlet to express their emotions, through any form of art.
“Sometimes we just have to get out of our own way,” he said.
Matthews aspires to be an outlet where people can strive by reaching their goals and do what they love. He shares that he wants to reach to others through his artwork, who may have gone through or may be going through a similar fight.
“I know that those people are reachable and sometimes it just takes one person to show like, hey this is where I was, here is how I got out of it and here is how I use my art today,” said Matthews. “Not only do I share a story of desperation, but of growth.”
Luxurious art
Though Matthews makes art as an avenue to express his emotions and for others to resonate with, he still dabbles in the high-end fashion side of things.
About five years ago, after seeing his mother own many Louis Vuitton (LV) bags, he entertained the idea to design his artwork on handbags and purses. Matthews discovered past designs from LV that had disney characters on its merchandise and he thought to do the same with his own spin.
“I thought to myself, I can do that and I already had a vision for it,” said Matthews. “As imaginative as I am, I can use that same kind of style, but make things that are more trendy for this generation.”
He commented once he displayed the artwork of the LV bags on social media, that he received great feedback and many messages from others wanting to buy a design of their own. Members of the community have reached out to him, as far as supporting his journey and wanting to give him resources to expand his artwork for recognition.
“It is so inspiring for me to do something for someone,” he said. “This is my passion and it gives me more purpose for my life."
Just recently, Matthews applied for an internship at LV to potentially do designs for them. He hopes to bring his unique talent to LV and continue to inspire and uplift others through his artwork.
Not too long ago, he received an email from LV that they are currently reviewing his internship submission.
Follow Xavier Matthews on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/xavier.matthews.4?rdid=8gMNLxZQ4JqYKI17&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F16qrqWaq71%2F#