Artist in Studio: Matt Tommey, natural basketry artist
Schedule
Sat Jan 24 2026 at 11:00 am to 05:00 pm
UTC-06:00Location
912 Water Street, Bastrop, TX, United States, Texas 78602 | Bastrop, TX
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We are thrilled to welcome Matt Tommey back to the gallery for more basket-weaving fun! Come meet the artist, watch him as he works on his latest masterpiece, and maybe even take a piece home for yourself!---------
Matt Tommey's work blends nature's raw beauty with the timeless art of basketry. His woven creations whimsically combine traditional weaving and painting techniques with a variety of materials including vines, bark, wax, pigments, clay, and metal. Since experimenting with the invasive kudzu vine in the early 1990's as a student at the University of Georgia, Matt has drawn inspiration from traditional Appalachian basketry while infusing his work with a distinctive contemporary flair that is all his own.
Each piece begins with a meditative journey into the forest, where Matt carefully selects materials. This process ensures that each element contributes to a unique design and superior quality. He often uses southeastern invasive species, chosen for their aesthetic appeal and ability to convey nature's resilient beauty.
Matt's recent works have expanded into sculptural collections for walls and tables, incorporating various materials like metal, wax, natural pigments and clay to add texture and depth. Whether in the format of a single vessel, a sculptural collection nestled in branches or a niched cold-wax and oil painting, the complexity and simplicity of the natural world shine through Matt’s unique artistic voice. His pieces are truly expressions of movement and life, capturing the dynamic interplay between nature, the artist's hand and divine inspiration.
Central to Matt's artistic philosophy is his quest to speak the language of natural materials. He views his work as a dialogue between the artist, the elements, and the Creator, honoring each material's inherent qualities while pushing traditional artistic boundaries. This approach lets him explore themes of growth, transformation, and connection, making each piece a narrative of his artistic journey.
Matt's art graces luxury mountain and coastal homes, where collectors appreciate how his work resonates with the environment. His pieces, with intricate patterns and organic shapes, celebrate nature's artistry, bringing tranquility and wonder into any space.
This is a free, family-friendly event.
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Where is it happening?
912 Water Street, Bastrop, TX, United States, Texas 78602Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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