"An abandoned building is a silent story, a frozen moment in time, a testament to the fleeting nature of human endeavors."
Who is Ma tt h e w Gri f f in?
Born in Independence, Missouri, Matthew developed a fascination with shapes, bold colors, and geometry from a young age. Inspired by a crafty mother, a talented cousin, and the dynamic toy packaging art of the '80s, his artistic curiosity quickly expanded. From early doodles to dismantling toys to understand their mechanics, Matthew’s natural curiosity shaped his artistic foundation. In high school, he adopted the art alias "Vernon Foxtail," marking the start of a bold exploration of creative identity and artistic expression.
As an emerging artist navigating the intricate space between abstract and surrealism with a touch of realism, Matthew’s work often draws on the raw, industrial beauty of abandoned urban environments. Blending graffiti aesthetics with the worn, rusted elements of forgotten places, his creations evoke a sense of history and preservation. A skateboard enthusiast, he creatively transforms discarded skateboards into art, blending his love of skating with his artistic vision.
Matthew’s journey has been enriched by Miami’s vibrant cultural diversity and shaped by his love for travel, photography, and experimentation across mediums like painting, sculpting, and digital art. Supported by his loving wife and three cats, who provide endless inspiration, he embraces themes of symbolism, interconnectedness, and adaptability. Currently Matthew is working toward his first solo art show and is actively growing within the art community.
"The walls of an abandoned building whisper tales of the lives once lived within, echoing with the ghosts of laughter and sorrow."