Welcome to Matthew Porter Art

New blog

2011-03-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

Hi all!

I have a new blog over at www.matthewporterart.com

Hey Portlanders..

2011-03-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

a selection of my works including original animal alphabet and birdie pieces.

March 10th - April 13th, 2011
Black Wagon, 3964 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227

RSVP on Facebook

My top 10 children's books

2011-01-12T14:53:00.000-08:00

Babyccino asked me to put together my top 10 children's books. It was hard! But really great as it made me realize how strongly my love of books is based on their illustrations oh and funny poems too.

Take a peek at my list HERE

Upcoming Events

2010-11-08T16:01:00.000-08:00

Portage Bay Goods Art Show Extended!
706 N 34th Street - in Fremont
www.portagebaygoods.com

This show will continue through January so if you missed visiting in December lucky you! Showcasing a wide collection of Matthew Porter originals and products.

Offer for free shopping web site

2010-10-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

Meylah is a local Seattle company doing amazing things. If I didn't have this site already I would be there!

Meylah is celebrating their 1-year anniversary this month and giving away FREE 1-Year Memberships on Premium Storefronts (a $240 Value). Meylah is the perfect solution for promoting your business, blogging about your creations and selling your work. You can even embed your Etsy shop right into your Meylah storefront and double your exposure!

To get started, just go to meylah.com and sign up for a Premium storefront using the following promotion code: MEY1YF

This won’t last long so hurry and sign up now to get your FREE Premium storefront started today and take advantage of the Premium features including the ability to sell digital products (eBooks, music and more), make money from creating online tutorials and be listed in the new Member Directory launching soon. There are no hidden fees, no transaction fees, and you can cancel at anytime.

If you choose to sign up please use our affliate code and help support Andrea's small business group Grassroots Business Assocation!

In the “Who Referred You to Meylah” section during registration use code:1BA004

www.meylah.com

Studio tour from Small Blog

2010-10-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

Mathew Porter is a author and illustrator who paints onto wood to get a fresh and distinctive finish. He has put out five childrens books, many available through Simply Read Books or in his online shop.

As well as books he has some super cool prints which I think would look great decorating in a boys room. You can see one of them below on his work table.

Here Mathew tells us a little about his work space: My studio is at the far end of our 1954 Ranch style home in Seattle. My studio was originally a garage that was turned into a living room by the previous owners. When we toured the house 3 years ago I knew right away that it would make an amazing studio. Lots of light and as it is at the far end of the house it feels a bit separated which is ideal as when I sand it does not get the rest of the house all dusty!

You'll see on the far right my newest addition to my studio a baby monitor. My wife also works from home so we both have a monitor and switch off caring for our son. My records on the left and my record player on the right - I am a pretty avid thrift store shopper for old records!

My tea pot at the end of the photo - I drink lots and lots of tea. I grew up in England near Brighton but have lived in Seattle for the past 12 years. But you never grow out of drinking tea! Although my coffee intake has increased pretty substantially! Also my paint jars on my desk are a reminder of home. I eat an awful lot of Marmite on toast. Marmite is a yeast paste from England and it is well know you either love it or hate it and I happen to be in the love it camp.
The painting is a piece I completed about 4 months ago. I have turned it into a large poster print and made it really just for the fun of it!

Thanks to Small Magazine for doing a tour of my studio!

B is for Bat

2010-09-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

A new commission - very appropriate for Halloween!

New Birdie Paintings on Etsy!

2010-09-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

A brand new set of Birdie Paintings only $35 - $60 each. 3 or 4 of these make a sweet set! (buy early for the holidays.. i know really!)

Buy them on my etsy site!

King of the hipster board book

2010-08-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

My first review about Calling All Animals - really nice and I thought the line about my being a king of hispter board books was pretty funny!

Reviewing board books is an inherently ridiculous proposition. Really, it boils down to this: You're reviewing an item that's going to be handed to a creature that won't rule out the possibility that the book in question is a potential food source. I've done board book reviewing before, but I usually need some kind of a gimmick. When I reviewed Suzy Becker's Books Are for Eating Reading, I clung to the fact that the book was produced with delicious chewable corners (I should know as I tested them myself). Leslea Newman's books Daddy, Papa and Me and Mommy, Mama, and Me broke new ground by showing families to two moms or two dads. Lot of meat to chew on in both cases. Matthew Porter's Calling All Animals offers a bit of a challenge, then. The undisputed king of the hipster board book genre (unless you want to count the Baby Be of Use series) , Porter tackles groups of animals and ends up with a title that is equally pleasing to both tiny drooling tots with limited motor skills and parents that would like to read something a little more beautiful than your average reinforced book.

“Calling all animals!” read the text with pride “no future pun intended”. First up, a single bear presented against a white backdrop. “A bear” says the text. Turn the page and the bear has been joined by at least ten others. “A sleuth of bears” says the text. And the collective nouns don't stop there, folks. Oh my no. The pattern continues as squirrels become “A scurry of squirrels”, a goldfinch joins, “A charm of goldfinches”, and (most impressive) a flamingo is one with “A flamboyance of flamingos”. After the “army of caterpillars” (and a more terrifying thought I've rarely had) the book ends with a single question. “What other animals can you call?” I first fell in love with Porter's art a couple of years ago when his rather gorgeous ABC book was published, also by Simply Read Books. It's a difficult style to describe. You wouldn't be surprised to see such images gracing the covers of record albums and t-shirts, let's say. No real surprise, but Mr. Porter and his wife used to own their own art gallery in Seattle. Now his focus is entirely on children's art, and Calling All Animals utilizes that style well. Thick black lines delineate each image in this collection. Kids go gaga for such lines, when done correctly. At the same time, the colors are variegated, but of a relatively muted palette. For fun, spot the changing eye color of the animals within each group.

As for the text, what we have here essentially boils down to a board book of collective nouns. And yes, I had to look up that term. I knew that phrases like “a paddling of ducks” or “a litter of pigs” was called something, but I was a little sketchy on the particulars. We don't have all that many books on collective nouns in my own library system. Certainly there was the book of poetry A Crossing of Zebras by Marjorie Maddox and Ruth Heller's A Cache of Jewels and Other Collective Nouns (from way way back in 1987). On the board book side of the equation, however, I don't think this has an equal. It's a true original.

There is a temptation with collective nouns to believe that folks are just making them up. A crash of rhinos? A rumba of rattlesnakes? Really? Really. I'm not up enough on my English history to know how such terms came into being, but the fact remains that they are fun to say. Pair them with pictures of animals for little tots who like that kind of thing and you've got yourself one of the finest little board books the eye ever did see. They may be small. They may be short. They may not be overwhelming you with content. But board books are hard and Matthew Porter consistently gets them right. Something to be said for that.

School Library Journal

Calling All Animals book has arrived!

2010-08-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

Purchase for $9.00 in my Shop

StoryCorps Video

2010-08-23T16:19:00.000-07:00

Well, this has nothing to do with my work but I thought it was really cool so I thought I'd share. If you don't know StoryCorp it is this amazing project to provide Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, share, and preserve the stories of our lives. You can hear what has been recorded at www.storycorps.org

But really check out the video...

Rock N Roll Monkey

2010-07-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

I just recently created this piece for a speical project I am working on. My hope is the suit will be created using a gold sparkly ink. Very Elvis Vegas style I think?

Calling All Animals Book Preview

2010-07-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

We just got new flamingos at the zoo last year. Did you know that on the underside of their pink wings they have black feathers! I just leaned that the last time I went to the zoo. I always seem to learn something new when I go there!

Artists support group

2010-07-18T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel like we do need support groups as so often I can spend weeks on my own working on a deadline. Well, an upcoming conference in Seattle is about as close as one can get to an actual artists support group! CCE is a three day conference for all of us DIY art, craft and design folks working to build our small businesses. The event will host superstar speakers from the indie craft community like Jenny Hart of Sublime Stitching, Danielle Maveal, Etsy’s Education Coordinator and Jennifer Ackerman-Haywood producer of the CraftSanity podcasts as well as lots of other AMAZING folks. Beyond the speakers and classes there are going to be other great opportunities like just hanging out and eating cupcakes one night and chatting with other small business owners!

Check out registration and class options at: www.creativeconferencewest.com

Bootyland Kids

2010-07-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

In my continuing series about venues where I showcase my work I bring you Bootyland Kids!

Bootyland has a great selection of my work from the prints, magnets, and books to my clothing line too! They have always been super supportive of my work and have showcased me since I first started getting into kids stuff.

They have the full range of gear for kiddies from infants to toddlers - new and used alike. Andrea, my wife, encouraged her friends to shop here for our baby shower so at the moment we are fairly well stocked on diaper wraps and cloth diapers but I am sure that won't last too long! They have the best selection of wraps and cloth options I have seen out there!

Bootyland Kids
1317 East Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98122-4021
www.bootylandkids.com

Urban Craft Uprising this weekend

2010-07-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

I'll be at Urban Craft Uprising craft show this weekend showcasing for the first time my newest poster Seattle! Hope I see you there!

Seattle Center Exhibition Hall
July 10 & 11th - 11 - 5
Free, hourly demos, swag bags for 1st 100 attendees
www.urbancraftuprising.com

Sale At Urban Craft Uprising!

2010-07-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

We have decided to do a big blow out sale of all 2009 apparel at Urban Craft Uprising!

Onesies, tees for infant for toddlers wil be $6 each!

Adult tees are $12 and adult hoodies are $20!

Seattle Center Exhibition Hall
July 10 & 11th - 11 - 5
Free, hourly demos, swag bags for 1t 100 attendees
www.urbancraftuprising.com

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

Evil Knievel seems to bring to mind Americana for me. I just read recently that Robbie Knievel, intends to pay homeage to his late father, Evel Knievel, and his legacy by jumping Southern Idaho's Snake River Canyon, for 2011's Fourth of July weekend - nearly forty years after Evel Knievel's attempt at the same location. So we'll have to wait a whole year to see if it happens but for now enjoy this little guy and have a happy 4th!

An easy one!

2010-06-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Some of the groups of animals are a bit easier to name than others. Pride of lions is generally more well known than colony of badgers. But that is sort of the fun of my next book - Calling All Animals. Some groups you'll know of already and some you will learn! Due out at the end of summer!

Bono Monkey Commission

2010-06-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

I just finished up this Bono Monkey commission for a nursery! It was really fun to do this piece as I am a U2 fan and whenever I do a commission I search the Internet for the right time frame and outfit and try to make everything as authentic as I can. This is from the Zoo TV tour. I learned while doing this commission that Bono has had a special microphone stand that he has always used ever since 1977.

Retroactive Kids in Columbia City

2010-06-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

In my continuing series about venues where I showcase my work I am excited to tell you all about Retroactive Kids in Columbia City!

This place has the best selection of toys, books and every other sort of grand distraction for kiddies! I often find that I have a list of items I want for myself before I can get out the door.

The back room is a special book nook! I love seeing which books store owners pick out. I have to say they have an eye that certainly matches mine. There are many "art" focused illustrators as well as a big turning book rack with just classic golden books. When Andrea and I found out we were pregnant we started going out and looking for golden books. We needed to start to build up our library and Retroactive Kids was our first stop!

Retroactive Kids
4859 Rainier Avenue, Seattle, WA 98118
www.retroactivekids.com

Spot the differences?

2010-06-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

I have recently just finished up some new pieces for a special project I am working on. The pirate is a popular piece but guns and swords are at times frowned upon so I revamped my old piece and created a new version of a still pretty hip lookin' pirate. What do you think?

Happy Planet In Seattle

2010-06-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

In my continuing series about venues where I showcase I am excited to tell you all about Happy Planet Toys! Mom owned and green friendly this amazing kids store finds safer, organic alternatives to mass produced plastic toys.

Each product in the store comes with a seven criteria tag listing whether the item and its manufacturer are fair-traded, organic, socially responsible, recycled, mom-owned, green, and natural.

Beyond showcasing an amazing assortment of products I just love the feel of this shop it is part store part exciting creation venue! There is a station for making mirrors or buttons, one for creating your own lotions or bath salts and then there is the lovely bird sanctuary and the pet hedgehog named littlefoot who resides there.

I am happy it is co close to home as I am sure as our little one grows we'll be there quite a bit! They have special monthly events listed on their site too!

Happy Planet Toys
2914 Northeast 55th Street, Seattle, WA 98105
www.planethappytoys.com

Skater

2010-06-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a new piece I created for a special project I am working on. Hopefully, I can make an announcment about the project soon but for now it's nice to show off the new work!

I'll be at UCU this year!

2010-06-01T16:23:00.000-07:00

It's still over a month away but I'm already getting ready for Urban Craft Uprising! Make sure to mark your calendars! I'd love to see you there.

Our baby is due June 28 so there are hopes he'll make an apperance!

Seattle Center Exhibition Hall
July 10 & 11th - 11 - 5
Free, hourly demos, swag bags for 1t 100 attendees
www.urbancraftuprising.com

What do you call a group of sheep?

2010-05-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Something every child should learn! A sneak peek of my newest children's board book due out at the end of summer - Calling All Animals!

The engine driver

2010-05-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

I am back to doing some writing which is always a strange transition from working on paintings. I am currently working on a story about this engine driver. I am sure he'll have some changes made to him but I think I'll be keeping the mustache. Just seems mustaches go with engine drivers and they also seem to be a new sort of craze! We talked to some customers at crafty wonderland that had started up a count of how many products they could find that included mustaches - I think they were on 18!

Seattle Poster for Sale!

2010-05-19T17:27:00.001-07:00

I have just got in my Seattle Monkey Posters. I am thinking they are pretty amazing!

24" x 36" Glossy Poster
100 lb paper gloss
4 Color Front
Blank Back
Will be shipped in tubes

Buy it HERE!!

Kali Commission

2010-05-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a recent commission I completed of Kali, the Hindu goddess associated with eternal energy. The name Kali comes from Kāla which means black, time, death, lord of death, Shiva. Kali means "the black one". Since Shiva is called Kāla - the eternal time, Kālī, his consort, also means "the Time" or "Death" (as in time has come). Hence, Kali is considered the goddess of time and change.

I have to admit that I probably enjoyed doing this commission more than any one I've ever done before! I think being able to create the detail and do the research made the project really interesting!

I am always happy to work on special commissions they are $165 including shipping just send me an email and we can go from there. matthewporterart@gmail.com

next sneek peek from Calling all Animals

2010-05-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

This is the big tree just out our back window everyday we see squirrels at it's base looking for all the nuts they have buried there. Usually we only see one squirrel at a time but if we did see more than one we'd now know what to call them!

Polliwog in Portland

2010-05-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

In my continuing series about venues where I showcase I am happy to announce that we are now showcasing at the hip SE Portland children's store Polliwog!

Seems quite appropriate to start showcasing here as I have been throwing around an idea for a new children's books based on the names of baby animals and it seems the name Polliowg is from the owners daughter Hazel who drew the name from a nursery rhyme about animals and their babies.

Polliwog as a lovely open sunshineie feel with lots of goods that are hip, modern but still have a very classic feel to them.

Polliowg
2900 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR, 97214
www.polliwogportland.com

Craft Fair Balloons

2010-05-09T11:54:00.001-07:00

I just had some custom balloons made for my next craft fair which is Urban Craft Uprising on July 10th & 11th. Hopefully our baby boy will have been born by then as the due date is June 28th!

I thought the balloons would be more fun than a traditional banner and they are just cool!

Matthew Porter Art Crafty Wonderland

2010-05-03T18:23:00.000-07:00

A group of bears is called?

2010-04-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

A first peek at the inside pages from my next children's board book "Calling All Animals"

Sale at Crafty Wonderland

2010-04-28T10:00:00.001-07:00

We have decided to do a big blow out sale of all 2009 apparel at Crafty Wonderland!

Onesies, tees for infant for toddlers wil be $6 each!

Adult tees are $12 and adult hoodies are $20!

Crafty Wonderland - May 1st & 2nd - Portland
www.craftywonderland.com

Work in progress

2010-04-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

For the last few weeks I have been working hard on a new Seattle piece. I am going back to my roots and revitalizing the first show I did for Bluebottle over 7 years ago. My first show at Bluebottle entitled "The Cat that Ate the World" showcased paintings of an enormous robot cat eating and destroying landmarks throughout the world. This time it is going to be a monkey! Every few months I hope to release a giclee poster of the image to my customers. So be on the lookout. I hope to have this one done by mid-Mad.

Indie Banditas Featured Store

2010-04-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

I thought I would start a new regular posting. Every other week I'll update my blog highlighting a venue in which I showcase my work. Matthew Porter Art could not make it without the support and love from the independent venues which carry my lines. I hope these posts will encourage readers to get out there and visit some of these fantastic spots!

Indie Banditas just opened last month on Bainbridge Island which is just a short ferry ride from Seattle. Kate, owner and proprietress, of Indie Banditas started out running Indie Banditas Traveling Bazaar and loves it so much she decided she would open a space for shoppers to find great DIY art, craft and design work in between all the traveling craft fairs. She is a busy lady with several events planned throughout the summer. Indie Banditas is a great reason to jump on the ferry and take a little trip outside Seattle. In the photo below you can see my books in the corner!!

www.indiebanditas.com

Calling All Animals goes to press

2010-04-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Just got a look at the final mock up version of my next book "Calling All Animals". It goes to press this month and has a release date at the end of summer! I'll be posting some sneak peeks of inside pages too over the next few months.

Calling All Animals is another children's board book in the same collection as ABC, Count the Birdies and Flowers. This one is about animal nouns or in more simple terms what do you call a group of Bears, Lions or Caterpillars?. You'll have to keep checking back to find out!

The Conference of Creative Entrepreneurs

2010-04-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

I would be remiss if I did not mention here on my blog the event my wife, Andrea, is helping to organize this summer here in Seattle. A three day conference for all of us DIY art, craft and design folks working to build our small businesses. The event will host superstar speakers from the indie craft community like Jenny Hart of Sublime Stitching, Danielle Maveal, Etsy’s Education Coordinator and Jennifer Ackerman-Haywood producer of the CraftSanity podcasts as well as lots of other AMAZING folks. Beyond the speakers and classes Andrea tells me there are going to be other great opportunities like just hanging out and eating cupcakes one night and chatting with other small business owners. Sometimes it is lonely all by ourselves in our art caves so it will be great to talk to others and get feedback and ideas.

Right now they have the early bird pass going on until June 1st for $225 for three days. Which is a great deal considering you get breakfast, lunch, snacks and speakers and classes.

You should go!

www.creativeconferencewest.com

I'm going to Crafty Wonderland - how about you?

2010-04-10T13:31:00.001-07:00

Now in Portland!

2010-04-02T18:43:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to announce that Matthew is now showing his children's clothing line, books and art prints at Black Wagon in Portland!

The first lines of their about us page reads:

Black Wagon is mad about anything lighthearted, irreverent, innovative, and earth-friendly in children's design. Our Portland, Oregon shop reflects the city's commitment to living sustainably and supporting local and independent designers.

Matthew's line definitely seems to fit the bill! Last week while in Portland we got to go in and meet Sarah the owner, as well as Alli and Megan. It's so great to get to put faces to names and get the real feel of a venue. Black Wagon has the cutest stuff - it one one of the first times I really wanted to start shopping for our own little one! Think I'll have to head back there in May!

Black Wagon
3964 North Mississippi Avenue,Portland, OR 97227
www.blackwagon.com

Signing my Flowers book in Portland

2010-03-17T13:34:00.000-07:00

Next week I'll be traveling to Portland to sign my new flowers books for librarians from across the county!

Librarians are a good group to get friendly with - they are always super supportive. Which is a great compliment as they get to see just about every new kiddies book that come out onto the market!

Event details:
PLA 2010 National Conference

The PLA National Conference is the premier professional development event for public librarians, public library workers, trustees, Friends, library vendors, and others with an interest in public libraries.www.placonference.org

Matthew signing events:
Thursday, March 25th
11:30 - 1 & 3:30 - 5
Oregon Convention Center

Sale! Sale! Sale!

2010-03-13T18:27:00.000-08:00

With our soon departure from Bluebottle we have decided to go out with a bang and have a sale on all my original artwork! The sale will run through March 31st.

All 9" x 9" originals are now $70 - originally $140
Al 24" x 24" originals are now $250 - originally $400!

Drop by Bluebottle or check out all the sale pieces in my shop

Featured in Pregancy & Newborn Magazine

2010-03-09T16:26:00.001-08:00

My X is for Xenops Print is featured in the March edition of Pregnancy & Newborn Magazine! It's pretty exciting to know the little bird has made it out into the world and hopefully into some nurseries!

I have created giclee prints of all the images from my ABC book. They can be purchase at www.matthewporterart.etsy.com

Facebook?

2010-03-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

So with Bluebottle no longer running our show I thought I better get a facebook page myself!

Sign up for craft fair news, book and sales updates!

www.facebook.com/matthewporterartwork

Crafty Wonderland

2010-03-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

Just found out I got excepted to be a vendor at Crafty Wonderland in Portland May 1st & 2nd!! We're excited to launch the new onesie line here!

More details will follow in the future.

New owner for Bluebottle

2010-02-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

We are excited to announce we have found a fabulous buyer for Bluebottle! We were really overwhelmed and pleased with the number of interested parties looking to take the reins. We felt it said a great deal about the enthusiasm there is in the Seattle community to support local independent art, craft and design. Bluebottle will continue to have a similar vibe and support emerging local talent in the Seattle community! The new owner will take over operations starting April 1st.

WHO IS THE NEW OWNER?

Jessie Oleson, that's who. Jessie is basically a triple threat: an artist, writer, and baker. She is the creator of the popular baked goods website cakespy.com, which spun off into a line of products and original artwork which she sells online at cakespyshop.com and at various Seattle retail locations. Having garnered a very sweet following by showing work around town and around the country, she's also cultivated relationships with some of the sweetest artists around, including many who currently show at Bluebottle! In taking over the Bluebottle business, she plans on continuing the tradition of showing the best indie art around, and making Seattle a sweeter place!

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO NOW?

Many of you have asked what Matthew and I are going to do now. We are please to annouce that we will be focusing exclusively on Matthew's work. Matthew will continue in his career as a children's book author and illustrator. His children's colors board book Flowers was just release last week and two more are lined up for publication within the next few years. In addition to Matthew's books we are expaning our children's clothing line featuring Matthew's loveable but cheeky monkey world characters. We will be showcasing this line online at matthewporterart.com as well as at independent children's boutiques throughout the US.

We're selling Bluebottle

2010-01-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

As you may well know I am part owner of Bluebottle Art Gallery with my wife Andrea. We are excited to announce that we are looking for a buyer.

Alison Browning of NW source wrote a nice article that really says it all!

After seven successful years in the Pike/Pine corridor on Capitol Hill, Bluebottle owners Andrea and Matthew Porter have announced that the business is up for sale.

In a recent e-mail the expectant parents explain that they are hoping to start a new venture, which Andrea told me was an expansion of Matthew’s children’s clothing line based on his popular paintings that Bluebottle has been so instrumental in getting out to the world.

The e-mail goes on to say that “even in these tough economic times Bluebottle is a profitable business ready to be taken over by someone who is familiar with the 'Do-It-Yourself' indie aesthetic and would like to continue supporting local handmade, independent artists, crafters and designers.”

The Porters are asking $10,000 for the business, complete with a shop stocked with consigned items and all fixtures. Payment options are available.

Andrea is optimistic that the right buyer is out there, and has received six or seven inquiries already. So if this seems like the career move for you, get better get in touch with the Porters ASAP.

For more info and a short video check out www.bluebottleart.com/buyers.html.

Discount on Matthew Porter Giant Wall Graphics!

2009-12-10T15:45:00.001-08:00

Hot on the heels of the review in Seattle Magazine from now through Dec 21st there is a 20% off discount for my giant wall graphics!!

The code is: porter-09

Buy 'em at: LTL Prints

Seattle Magazines Best of 2009

2009-12-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

I am excited to be featured in Seattle Magazine's 2009 Best of Publication!

Best Kids Decor with my Big Wall Graphics through LTL Prints

Portland's Super Colossal Holiday Sale

2009-12-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

Looking for another crafty holiday sale? Head to Portland for Crafty Wonderlands Super Colossal Holiday Sale!

Matthew Porter of Bluebottle will be heading to Portland for his very first craft fair there - watch out Portland here we come!

www.craftywonderland.com

A few photos from the Indie Banditas event

2009-12-02T15:26:00.000-08:00

Matthew Porter AT UCU this weekend

2009-11-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

I will be there as will lots of other artists that we showcase at Bluebottle.

December 5th & 6th, 2009
11:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. both days
Seattle Center Exhibition Hall

Be one of the first in the door each day and get a swag bag full of goodies!!

Urban Craft Uprising was started in 2004 to showcase the work of independent crafters, artists and designers - to provide a unique, high quality, hand-crafted alternative to "big box" stores and mass produced goods.

At Urban Craft Uprising's shows, fans can choose from a wide variety of hand-crafted goods including clothing of all types, jewelry, gifts, bags, wallets, buttons, accessories, aprons, children's goods, toys, housewares, paper goods, candles, journals, art, food & much, much more. Each Urban Craft Uprising show is carefully curated and juried to ensure the best mix of crafts and arts along with originality and uniqueness.

www.urbancraftuprising.com

Matthew Porter at Indie Banditas Bazaar

2009-11-22T14:47:00.000-08:00

Looking for something to do after Thanksgiving? This craft bazaar on Bainbridge Island, just a 30 minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, is just the ticket!

When:
November 27 + 28 - 10 - 5 pm

Where:
Woodland Middle School, 9125 Sportsman Club Rd, Bainbridge Island

There is a ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island at least once an hour
Check the schedule HERE

After you leave the ferry follow these directions:
1. Go NORTHWEST on OLYMPIC DR SE
2. OLYMPIC DR SE becomes WA-305/WA-305 NE
3. Turn LEFT onto SPORTSMAN CLUB RD NE
4. Indie Banditas Craft Show is on the RIGHT

See the artist lineup and more info at: Indie Banditas Bazaar

Matthew Porter featured in eat.shop seattle guide book

2009-11-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

You may have seen a post from a few weeks ago about my books featured in the eat.shop. Portland guide well I am excited to get my hands on the latest edition of eat.shop. Seattle which highlights Bluebottle and has a few nice words to say about me as well!

For awhile now I've gravitated towards Matthew Porter's groovy kids board books, in fact I've often featured them as covets for other eat.shop bizs. Did I add 2 + 2 together and realize that Bluebottle was home to Matthew's work and owned by he and his wife? Nope! Duh. Anyway, if you like Mr. Porter's work, Bluebottle is a great place to stock up on his and many other fresh, young, talented artists' pieces.

Guides are avialable through Bluebottle ($14.95)

The Cartoon Show

2009-11-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Matthew Porter will be showcasing work in the Cartoon Show opening tonight at Terminal 22

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T12:22:00.001-07:00

Matthew Porter at Bookfest

2009-10-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed talking about my books at bookfest this year. I created a slideshow featuring images from my books and other projects - this image shows "Green" from my new flowers book due out soon!

Thanks again to Secret Garden Books for sponsering the children's stage!

Eat.Shop Portland

2009-10-22T17:57:00.001-07:00

I just found out my books are featured in the Eat.Shop Portland guide book!

My books are included in the listing at Black Wagon which looks to be an amzing kiddies store on Mississippi Ave.

Matthew Porter Monkey World Reading

2009-10-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Matthew will be presenting a bit about how he got started in children's books and reading poems from his Monkey World book at the Kid's Stage sponsered by Seattle's Secret Garden Books this weekend at Seattle's Book Fest. Hope you can make it out!

Sunday, October 25th - 1:30 - 2 pm

Northwest Book Fest
Columbia City Event Center
3528 S. Ferdinand, Seattle, WA, 98118

Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $5
www.seattlebookfest.com

Sneek peek at my next book

2009-10-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

My next children's board book Flowers is due to be released any day now! This time it is all about learning your colors.

Video created by Jill Southern
www.jillsouthern.org

Terminal 22 showcasing Matthew Porter

2009-09-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce I am now showcasing my work in the Bay area at Terminal 22!

Three pieces in a commission

2009-09-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

I have just finished the last three pieces in a commission. These being quick photos the colors never come across quite right but I am happy with the blue and purple tones of the "mean" ravens. I was requested to create mean ravens and an owl which is a change for me from my super cute round eyed animals so I think it came off well considering I kept my cute style still in there. These pieces will be showcased with the one in the post below as well as several other birdie paintings. They plan to hang them all together and create a little forest!

Completed commission

2009-09-09T17:12:00.000-07:00

Kerstin who designed my current web site commissioned me to complete 4 pieces for her. This is the first of the four.

I am quite pleased with how it turned out as her list of items to include was:
bees - some with stingers - some without
beehive
caterpillar
bird
leaves, flowers
branch
ladybug

Think I got it all in there! It has got me thinking about future children's board books featuring nature scenes.

Progression of a piece

2009-09-02T18:29:00.000-07:00

With my new Flowers book coming out soon I thought it might be interesting to see the progression of a piece...

Free iPhone app

2009-08-28T12:19:00.001-07:00

My DJ monkey is featured as a free iPhone app!

If you download the app you also get a 'mobile coupon' for $10 off the 'real world' version of the giant wall graphics.

These giant stickers feature my monkeys, animals and flower images. They are great for kids rooms, kitchens and bathrooms as they won't damage easily. They are available in sizes one to seven feet and are a super affordable art option with nothing over $200.00!

The iPhone app is free via iTunes here

The giant wall graphics stickers, which you can get a $10 coupon for, can be seen here: http://www.LTLprints.com/matthewporter

New online interview

2009-08-09T18:47:00.000-07:00

Troy and Stephano of Buy This Now just listed a nice interview of me on their blog. I had done the interview a few weeks ago which seemed ages ago so it was nice to see what I said again!!

Giant Wall Stickers

2009-08-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed Urban Craft Uprising this past weekend. It gave me the chance to present my newest product - giant respositional wall stickers. I think these guys look pretty amazing!

Image taken by Megan of Not Martha at UCU

MATTHEW PORTER BIG WALL GRAPHICS are printed on a space-age 'repositionable self-adhesive fabric paper', which sticks to anything (walls, windows, brick, concrete) and can be moved 100 times without leaving a mark or damaging walls.

BIG WALL GRAPHICS of MATTHEW PORTER artwork (monkeys, animals, alphabet blocks, flowers, butterflies, and more!) are available at sizes between one and seven feet, with prices starting at less than $30 - with nothing more than $200!

Check them out at www.ltlprints.com/matthewporter

Looking to stay cool this weekend?

2009-07-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

Urban Craft Uprising will have it's air conditioning pumping!!
Shop & stay cool. Brilliant!

I'll be there showing off my monkey gear...

www.urbancraftuprising.com

Urban Craft Uprising Summer Show

2009-07-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

On August 1st & 2nd (11 - 5pm), I'll be joing over 100 indie crafters, artists and designers selling their work at the Urban Craft Uprising Summer show, at the Seattle Center in downtown Seattle! Go support handmade!!

It's free too!

www.urbancraftuprising.com

New Giclee prints in my Etsy Shop!

2009-07-15T17:33:00.001-07:00

Urban Craft Uprising is coming up soon!

2009-07-08T16:39:00.001-07:00

I am excited that Urban Craft Uprising has decided to do a summer event this year! I was just interviewed by UCU lovely intern the other day. Check it out here!

Cupcakes all this July

2009-07-04T16:15:00.001-07:00

Here are the cupcakes you can get at Trophy all month long.
Vanilla or Chocolate!

Trophy Cupcakes
1815 N. 45th St, Suite 209
Seattle, WA, 98103
www.trophycupcakes.com

Image thanks to Jessie of Cakespy

Upstairs/ Downstairs Show

2009-07-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

A Matthew Porter double header at Bluebottle Art Gallery & Store

Upstairs I am presenting the original art from my new book, "Flowers."
This time it's all about learning our colors.

"Following ABC and Count the Birdies, Flowers is Matthew's third board book. The book, featuring gorgeous flowers in Porter's signature style of funky acrylic and ink paintings on wood, teaches little ones their colors. Unique, vintage, and timeless, the bright colors are sure to make it a favorite of babies and toddlers (and their parents, too)." - Simply Read Books. "Flowers" will be published in the autumn.

Downstairs I will present, "Rock 'n' Roll Suicide" (Part Two)
A seriously rockin' collection of Monkey World portraits. This show features a star studded line up of musical royalty from the past 50 years. Everyone from Adam Ant and Elvis to Slash and Jimmy Page.

Artist Reception: Thurs, June 9th, 5 - 8 pm
Free + open to the public.
In coordination with the Capitol Hill Art Walk

Runs: July 1 - 30, 2009

If you can't make it in person see the full online here

Bluebottle Art Gallery and Store
415 East Pine Street, Seattle, WA, 98122
206.325.1592
Hours: Tues - Sun 12 - 7
Closed Mondays
Always free admission

Monkey Cupcakes You Say?

2009-06-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

I"ll be showcasing "A Bit of This and That" from my entire collection at Trophy Cupcakes this July!

Come to the opening and get free cupcakes with my monkeys on them!!

If you can't make it for the opening there will be monkey cupcakes all month long. Cupcakes with monkeys. Is there any better pairing?

Artist Reception: Wed, July 1st, 6 - 8 pm

Free + open to the public. In coordination with the Wallingford Art Walk

Runs: July 1 - 30, 2009

Trophy Cupcakes
1815 N. 45th St, Suite 209
Seattle, WA, 98103

www.trophycupcakes.com

Sneek Peek

2009-06-27T16:47:00.000-07:00

These are a few of the flower pieces from the next book! Flowers - a colors board book for the kiddies.

These pieces will be in my next show Upstairs/ Downstairs at Bluebottle. If you'd like to see the full series or purchase a piece check out the preview show online.

Sad News

2009-06-25T16:22:00.000-07:00

I just heard very sad news that Michael Jackson passed away today from cardiac arrest. As I mentioned before in my blog he was the very first concert I went to see as a kid and I loved his music. Cheers Michael!

Sneek peek of Creature Feature

2009-06-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

I'd be happy if you could join us in Astoria but I know many of you can't so luckily another option is available. The full show is online!

Check out my work here

and Drake's work here

Creature Feature Exhibition

2009-05-30T12:43:00.000-07:00

Creature Feature is the latest and greatest collection of painting from Seattle based artists Drake Brodahl and myself, Matthew Porter. Creature Feature showcases mythical creatures born of legend and from the artists imagination.

Runs: Sat. Jun 13, 2009 - Fri, Jul 10, 2009
Opening Reception: Sat. June 13th 5 - 9 pm

If out on the coast come visit - it is free and lots of goodies are served!
I'll be there hanging out with Drake and our lovely wives.

Drake Brodahl:
Longest Horn, 5" x 11" cel vinyl acrylic on watercolor paper, 2009

Matthew Porter:
Gnome Fishing, 9" x 9", acrylic paint on wood, 2009

Lunarboy Gallery, Astoria, OR
www.lunarboygallery.com

Banner for Seattle Blog

2009-05-20T12:59:00.001-07:00

Monkey Around Seattle is a new Seattle blog about great indie venues in Seattle. Recommendations from my wife Andrea, as well as several other small business owners. I used the image here to create a banner for the site. I originally created the piece for Drake Brodahl as a trade when he created Bluebottle's site.

Definitely worth checking out as the contributors are really on top of all the newest indie venues popping up in Seattle.

Going to Bazaar Bizarre at Maker Faire?

2009-05-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

If going to this great event be sure to sign up for the raffle - they are going to havce lots of goodies going! I will be including my Monkey World book. Here are a few I liked. I may have to get a few raffle tickets myself!

Bread and Badger's Etched Glassware

My Imaginary Boyfriend's Pillows

Danielleorama's Plushie Owl

Celebrate Children's Book Week!

2009-05-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

As a children's book illustartor and author I thought I would metion that this upcoming week is children's book week.

The 90th annual observance of Children's Book Week will be May 11-17, 2009. A celebration of the written word, Children's Book Week introduces young people to new authors and ideas in schools, libraries, homes, and bookstores. Through Children's Book Week, Every Child a Reader (the CBC Foundation) encourages young people and their caregivers to discover the complexity of the world beyond their own experience through books.

Celebrate children's book week by reading a few extra books to the kids or make a special trip out with the kiddies and let them pick a book of their choice to celebrate!

More ideas for the week at: www.bookweekonline.com

Free Desktop Download

2009-05-03T15:00:00.000-07:00

Each month Bluebottle is offering an image from the current exhibition as a free downloadable desktop! You can select a desktop that includes a monthly calendar or just the artwork. Bluebottle will also feature a few of my desktops on a regular basis. The first one is the DJ monkey!

To download this desktop + bookmark the page for future reference go HERE

Last days to see Rock'N Roll Suicide

2009-04-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Tommorrow will be the last day to see my Rock 'N' Roll Suicide Show in person until part two opens in July at Bluebottle.

Anyone you'd like to see me create for part two?

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

Interview on Maker Faire Blog

2009-04-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

I am gearing up for Maker Faire and getting lots of product together. Andrea just dropped off tshirts and bags today at the silkscreeners. Yesterday we found a great set up we can use for table display at Goodwill. And just as good as getting product ready is promotion. Bazaar Bizarre the folks behind the craft section at Maker Faire have posted an interview about me on their blog. A few new bits about me that I haven't talked about before I think!
Go check it out

ABC book featured in Cookie Magazine

2009-04-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

My ABC book is featured this month in Cookie Magazine! I am really proud to be presented along side legendary illustrators such as Eric Carle and Charley Harper.

You can see my spread of S is for Swallow and T is for Tiger in the lower right hand corner.

"13. A straightforward ABC book - but the 26 wide-eyed critters on these pages are uncommonly adorable."

My very first concert

2009-04-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

I went to go see Michael on his Thriller tour at Wimbley Stadium with my sister. I had to get out of school for the day - it was pretty amazing!

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

9" x 9", acrylic paint on wood original, $140.00
If you'd like to purchase either original you can contact me at hello@matthewporterart.com

THE BIG WALL GRAPHICS ART SHOW

2009-04-22T12:35:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce I will be showing my ABC and Monkey World series with Start Moving Pictures as giant respositionable wall art (it's almost like a giant sticker but it can be removed and won't damage your walls)!

The exhibition will be held on May 8th at the Hotel des Arts in the French Quarter of San Francisco. It will feature repositional wall art from premier emerging artists + designers from around the world. Start Moving Pictures is extending the concept of the original painted rooms at the Hotel des Arts, and is creating an entire collection of big wall graphics in an exciting new medium. And every piece of art in this show will be available for less than $70!

If you aren't in San Francisco no fear the pieces can be purchased online through Start Moving Pictures.

The Monkey set includes the monkey dj, pirate, drummer, punk, mototrcycle daredevil, gangster as welll as two scene originally from my monkey world calendar. Buy the set here for only $69!

This is also an amazing opportunity to get the full ABC set for only $69!
Check it out here

Sid Vicious

2009-04-21T10:40:00.000-07:00

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

9" x 9", acrylic paint on wood original, $140.00
If you'd like to purchase either original you can contact me at hello@matthewporterart.com

Monkey World at the Mall

2009-04-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce that Monkey World clothing, prints and books are now featured at Bump in Bellevue Square. This is the second location for Bump. I have been showcasing my work with Bump/Pop Tots for several years now at their location on Roosevelt in the University District of Seattle. I am excited that monkey world has made the jump across the lake to Bellevue!

My New Monkey World Belts

2009-04-18T13:50:00.000-07:00

Getting into Makers Fair has totally motivated us to start working on some new product. In the past we had done some belts and we thought we'd refine them and give them another go.

Greg from Miles to Go Belts sent us photos the other day. I have to say I think they are looking pretty amazing!

We should hopefully get the shipment within the next week or so. If we have any leftovers after the fair we'll sell them at Bluebottle and on my etsy site!

better yet come to Makers Fair and check them out in person!

Guess

2009-04-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

So this might be a hard one for some but easy for others.
Q: Do you know who it is?

A: Jimmy Page

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

Guns N' Roses

2009-04-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

One of my first concerts!!

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

9" x 9", acrylic paint on wood original, $140.00 each

If you'd like to purchase the original(s) you can contact me at hello@matthewporterart.com

Best Designed Books of 2008

2009-04-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

My Monkey World book has receieved it's first award! The most exciting part is that it will also compete in the biggest book-design competition in the world, in Leipzig, Germany, in February 2010.

The Alcuim Society selected Monkey World as it's third prize winner for best designed children's book of 2008.

Here is a bit from the press release:
The Alcuin Society has announced the winners of its 27th annual Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada. The judges, Frank Newfeld, Alan Stein, and E.A. Hobart (Zab), selected 32 winning titles from 233 entries, 7 provinces, and 89 publishers.

"Designers, illustrators, typographers, printers, writers and publishers have collaborated to bring together words, images, type, paper and binding, to express themselves in these works of art," commented Leah Gordon, Alcuin Society Board member and Design Competition Committee Chair. "All the entries demonstrate that there's nothing like the look and feel of a well-designed book."

The winning books will be shown across Canada and exhibited at the Tokyo International Book Fair in Japan, and the Frankfurt and Leipzig International Book Fairs. They will compete in the biggest annual book-design competition in the world, in Leipzig, Germany, in February 2010.

CHILDREN:
Third prize: ROBIN MITCHELL (HUNDREDS & THOUSANDS DESIGN INC.), designer of Monkey World : an A-Z of Occupations, by Matthew Porter (Simply Read Books)

The Alcuin Society is a Vancouver-based not-for-profit society for the support and appreciation of fine books. In addition to the annual Book Design Competition, the Society publishes a quarterly journal, Amphora, and organizes lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and field visits on various aspects of the book.

Facebook

2009-04-11T13:17:00.001-07:00

I just started a Facebook page! I would love if you joined me as a friend

San Francisco Suggestions

2009-04-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

I am going to be heading out to San Francisco at the end of May to showcase my work at the Maker Faire and we plan to spend a few days before and after in San Francisco and I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions of cute, hip little shops or galleries we might check out? I'd love to get my work into spaces down there but have not been there in about 7 years.

Had to include this image although it is now 6 years old and definitely was not professionally photographed!

Bob

2009-04-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

Bob Marley always seems to sing with his eyes closed...

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

9" x 9", acrylic paint on wood original, $140.00
If you'd like to purchase either original you can contact me at hello@matthewporterart.com

Maker Faire

2009-04-09T13:34:00.001-07:00

I just found out on Tuesday that I got accepted to showcase with Bazarre Bizarre at Maker Faire in San Mateo , CA at the end of May. I am SUPER EXCITED! Not only do I get to showcase + sell my work to a whole new crowd but I also get a vacation out of it.

I had not hear of the Maker Faire until recently. My wife, Andrea, has been talking with Kristen who owns Schmancy and she applied and was talking it up so we decided to apply.

Maker Faire is basically the biggest DIY festival in the US. It's a two day event all about Making stuff. I keep describing it as folks that make giant catapults and launch handmade rockets as well as crazy costumes, making crafts and buying handmade goodies. This has got to be my crowd! I have heard they get about 60,000 people each day!!

Seattle Boys

2009-04-08T10:06:00.000-07:00

Had to feature the Seattle stars Jimi Hendrix + Kurt Cobain

5" x 5" print, matted to 8" x 10" $20.00
If interested in purchasing the print get it
HERE

9" x 9", acrylic paint on wood original, $140.00
If you'd like to purchase either original you can contact me at hello@matthewporterart.com

Examiner review

2009-04-07T15:52:00.000-07:00

I just got a nice review on the Seattle Examiner....

Local artist Matthew Porter is a poet, a painter, and an art gallery owner. And he’s all about monkeys. Monkeys in space suits, monkeys doing yoga, monkeys flying jets, you name it. They decorate the pages of his vintage, modern and timeless ABC board book for ages 1 – 3 yrs. and his Monkey World book which features occupations from A to Z for ages 4 -8 yrs.

Besides children’s books, Matthew also creates paintings and art prints on wood ( you can often find him at Home Depot getting new supplies) and, together with his wife Andrea, has developed a children’s clothing line with his art so you can dress up your own little monkey Porter-style.

The clothing is sold at the art gallery, local children's boutiques (such as Retroactive Kids in Columbia City) and online at Red Panda and is created in sweatshop free environments and silk-screened locally in Seattle. A selection of the line is produced on 100% certified organic material and 1% of their annual proceeds is donated to a charitable organization.

Wife Andrea is also the co-owner of their art gallery up on Capitol Hill named Blue Bottle art gallery + store. The gallery and boutique focus on independent handmade art, craft and design.