Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Nevin.
Hi Matthew, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
From as far back as I can remember, I have loved making, creating, and making short movies with my friends and family, which grew quickly into a passion for the arts. My academic path laid a strong foundation for this pursuit, with a degree in Film & TV & Scenography from the University of Wales Aberystwyth and a Masters in Art in the Contemporary World from the National College of Art & Design Dublin. These years were instrumental in shaping my approach to creating work in various disciplines, underpinning my dedication to breaking down social and economic barriers through inclusive projects.
My career has led me to working across the globe, from Ireland to the US, the UK, Europe, and Japan. In the realm of the visual arts, I have been fortunate to curate over hundreds of exhibitions internationally, bringing to life large-scale creative projects for organizations such as MART, CIACLA, PQ, IrelandWeek, EUCIA, and Imagine Ireland. My own artwork, which I’ve exhibited internationally, has also allowed me to engage with leading brands, including a commissioned piece for Ralph Lauren.
My work in film and television as an Art Director & Designer has led me contributing to hit shows like Luther, Eastenders, The Bill, and The Amazing Race, collaborating with giants such as CBS, BBC, ITV, Element Pictures, RTE, TG4, and MTV. This experience honed my skills in managing complex creative projects, setting the stage for my later work as a Producer and Executive Director.
As the Co-Director of The MART Gallery & Studios Dublin, I’ve overseen the running of over 100 artist studios and a contemporary art gallery, fostering a vibrant community of creativity. While my leadership role as the Executive Director of the nonprofit CIACLA – The Contemporary Irish Art Center Los Angeles – has enabled me to produce impactful Irish cultural events in California, furthering my commitment to international cultural exchange.
My recent work at Pick Me Up Pictures as a Writer, Director and Producer has been particularly rewarding, managing a diverse slate of programming and content for film, TV, and online platforms. Here, my projects have ranged from the award-winning documentary What is Going to Happen Next?, which has been recognized at 21 international film festivals, to the creation of engaging content like the Culture Chats online series and my recent comedy short films ‘You Ask Him’ and ‘Today’s Date.’
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The most formidable obstacles I’ve faced stem from the financial struggles inherent to the arts, coupled with the internal battles in your mind! that often accompany all creative endeavors. The reality is that the structures of nearly all creative industries are such that making a proper living wage from one’s craft is the main struggle in comparison to other fields. This creative landscape is a constant hurdle, demanding not just creativity in your work but also in the ways you navigate your own journey of being an artist.
The journey is complicated for many by creative industry’s inequalities, nepotism, and discrimination. These systemic issues can skew opportunities and make the path even more difficult for those who lack connections or who face barriers due to their background. These have deeply influenced my approach as a curator and producer. Each time I find myself in a position to offer opportunities, I am reminded of the importance of making decisions that are fair, inclusive, and supportive of talent that might otherwise be overlooked.
This perspective has been a guiding principle in my work, driving me to actively seek out and create opportunities for deserving artists. It’s a commitment to not only recognizing talent where it exists but also to challenging the status quo of the industry to make it more accessible and equitable for everyone. These struggles, while daunting, have been instrumental in shaping my approach and purpose in the arts, reinforcing my dedication to fostering an environment where creativity is nurtured and valued, free from the constraints of financial and systemic barriers.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a passionate advocate for the arts; I look to create conversation and dialogue about key world issues, directly connecting the audience with a relatable narrative. I have a particular interest in the creation of inclusive projects that actively break down social and economic barriers.
What are your plans for the future?
I look forward to building CIACLA to providing more opportunities and partnerships, bringing world-class Irish productions to Los Angeles. I am also currently developing a Television Drama series with my sister, which is about to go out to potential broadcasters soon!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.matthewnevin.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewnevin
