ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Sharon Matusiak's Dreamlike Paintings Explore Nature, Mythology, and Social Commentary

artist · 2026-09-08

Sharon Matusiak, an artist from Southern Illinois, produces otherworldly paintings that merge abstraction with figuration, delving into themes of nature, mythology, and the interconnectedness of life. Her pieces, such as "The Wheel Of Time" and "Come Fly With Me," showcase vibrant hues and flowing forms, drawing from the GAIA Theory to emphasize the fragility of ecosystems and human influence. After spending 35 years in a forest, she finds inspiration in local fauna, reinforcing her commitment to environmental advocacy. Recurring imagery of horses and birds represents freedom, particularly in light of social turmoil, as illustrated in "A Broken Nation," which was influenced by the murder of Renee Good. Matusiak employs charcoal, conte crayon, and graphite alongside paint to create rich textures and urges young artists to explore various subjects. Connect with her on Instagram and view her work on Artsy Shark.

Key facts

  • Sharon Matusiak is an artist based in Southern Illinois.
  • Her paintings are inspired by nature, mythology, and interconnectedness.
  • Works include 'The Wheel Of Time', 'Come Fly With Me', 'The Conversation', 'The Last Tree Standing?', 'Fleeing Chaos', 'A Broken Nation', 'Beauty and the Beast', 'The Breath of Life', and 'Shhh! A Murder is on its Way'.
  • She uses acrylic, oil, and mixed media on various supports.
  • Her art reflects GAIA Theory and environmental concerns.
  • She has lived close to nature for 35 years.
  • Her painting 'A Broken Nation' was inspired by the murder of Renee Good.
  • She integrates drawing materials with paint for texture.
  • She studied ballet and piano as a child.
  • She encourages young artists to study multiple subjects.
  • She earned a BFA in painting and drawing.
  • The feature is published on Artsy Shark.

Entities

Artists

  • Sharon Matusiak

Institutions

  • Artsy Shark

Locations

  • Southern Illinois
  • United States

Sources