Matt Dillon's Benin-Inspired Paintings Debut at The Journal Gallery
Matt Dillon is showcasing his inaugural solo exhibition, titled "Porto Novo to Abomey," at The Journal Gallery in New York from April 24 to May 23. This collection was inspired by his journey to Senegal for Claire Denis's film The Fence (2025) and his explorations in Benin, where he engaged with textiles, architecture, and landscapes. The exhibition's name reflects a 100-mile trek from Benin's capital to the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey. Having started painting with crayons a decade ago, Dillon employs acrylic on paper and recycled notebooks, creating bold, flat designs featuring dynamic figures, symbols, and text. The works also reference voodoo, originating from Dahomey, and coastal scenes linked to the slave trade. Gallery co-founders Michael Nevin and Julia Dippelhofer highlight Dillon's ongoing sketching and collecting during his travels. His previous ties to West Africa include a study of Afro-Cuban music and the documentary El Gran Fellove (2020) about Francisco Fellove.
Key facts
- Matt Dillon's first solo show at The Journal Gallery, New York, runs April 24–May 23.
- The series 'Porto Novo to Abomey' was inspired by Dillon's travels in Senegal and Benin.
- Dillon began painting about a decade ago, using crayons and later renting a studio in 2016.
- His style is spontaneous, textured, and gestural, with bold flat works and recurring symbols.
- The title references a 100-mile journey from Porto Novo to the Kingdom of Dahomey.
- One work centers on voodoo, which originated in the Kingdom of Dahomey.
- Dillon made the documentary 'El Gran Fellove' (2020) about Afro-Cuban musician Francisco Fellove.
- Gallery co-founders Michael Nevin and Julia Dippelhofer commented on Dillon's creative process.
Entities
Artists
- Matt Dillon
- Claire Denis
- Francisco Fellove
Institutions
- The Journal Gallery
- Artnet News
Locations
- New York
- Senegal
- Benin
- Porto Novo
- Kingdom of Dahomey
- West Africa