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Matt Micallef was born on the 24th of July 1982 in Nuremberg, Germany.
How did you get started?
It started officially in 2004. My sister’s friend wanted to give a painting as a gift so I was asked if I could do this for her. I decided to try this out, even though I had never touched acrylics before. Suffice to say I still have painting 001, and loved the experience so much, that the next day I went down to the art shop and replenished supplies and never looked back!
What genre do you consider your work to be?
It’s a mixture of abstract, pop, vehicle, architecture, scenes and occasional portraits.
Describe your work in less than 10 words.
Colourful, vivid, detailed, textured, striking, methodical, loose.
Where was your first exhibition held?
Bianco’s, St. Julian’s March 2011
How long have you been practising your art?
Probably from about 4 or 5 years old. Although over the years I’ve noticed it comes in waves of a few years of productivity at a time, then some other talent takes “centre-stage”. But if we’re talking about acrylic painting… since 2004 roughly.
Which is your favourite from among your own artworks?
As a genre, I’ve always had a love & passion for cars. I have to say it would be the iconic Alfa 33 Stradale, completed in June 2013.
Whose artist’s work are you most inspired by?
Luciano Micallef, Francoise Nielly, Voka, Aquarelief by Adrian Mitu, Scott Robertson (designstudiopress.com), Syd Mead.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?
I’d be a singer/musician. Amongst other things I love doing.
What is the epitome of happiness for you?
Love, and freedom.
What are you working on at the moment?
I haven’t painted since last December. Having to give up what you love doing for “a proper job” sucks. However, I recently started working on some local scenery to help bring back the muse, although it’s hard to focus in short increments of time. I find that I’m most focused and receptive when I have no “other commitments”.
Are you a morning person or do you come alive at night?
Total night owl.
How many coffees a day? Don’t embellish.
4 if I’m not painting.
Sundays can be very productive for some and very unproductive for others. How do you spend yours?
Relaxing or working, it depends on the necessities at the time.
Wine and cheese. Yes or no?
Undoubtedly, Yes!
If you were given a million euros, what would you indulge yourself with?
Clear debts & invest in an off-grid property for me and my besties.
Favourite place to holiday?
As far away from the hustle and bustle as possible, it will be a place that clears my mind and sparks creativity.
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