Famous 5 – Matt Corrado
Meet Matt Corrado – an artist and designer based in Washington, DC. Matt’s artwork can be seen across the DMV, with his latest completed community mural in the Brentwood neighborhood which was a community effort sponsored by MidCity Development as part of their work to redevelop Brookland Manor into RIA. Matt is also the co-founder and creative director of Bright Light Media.
Where do you find inspiration for your art?
As far as I can remember I have always been inspired to make art, so I think the majority of my inspiration comes from a deep love for creating. But when creating, I draw a lot from the things I loved when I was growing up as a kid. Cartoons, music, skateboarding, and graffiti are a few elements that I turn to regularly for inspiration. These are things that drew me to creating art to begin with.
How do you pick your spots? Does that influence the mural you make?
I wish it was as easy as picking spots, but I would describe it more as seeking opportunities. I would say yes absolutely, the location always influences the work. With murals, the neighborhood and the people and activity within it are very influential. For Rhode Island Avenue I wanted to focus on trying to bring a pop of color and brightness to the neighborhood. Another goal was also to create a place that would draw people together and be a hub for the community. It was great collaborating with the people from the neighborhood and getting their valued input throughout the process. We even had a large group of students come out on the last day to help me add the finishing touches. We had a blast!
Tell us about the most memorable reaction to a painting you’ve received.
I wouldn’t say I have one memorable reaction that stands out, but whenever someone takes the time out of their day to stop for a few seconds and react to my artwork that is always special. My favorite thing is to hear that someone’s day is brightened when they pass by or engage with my work. That sort of feedback keeps me inspired to create and fuels the passion.
What was the turning point in your career?
Up to this point I would have to say the turning point was leaving my full time job in 2010 to pursue my own career in art and design. That was something that I was always working towards and hoped I could do, but taking that risk and going all in was a big leap.
Where can we find you on a day off?
Hanging out with my beautiful wife and children.
Bonus! What’s next?
I have a few projects lined up for 2018, but I try to not get too far ahead. I like to try to live in the moment and be able to take on opportunities as they come. Overall though, I want to continue to focus on large scale public work and growing my creative agency Bright Light Media.
