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Matt EichAmerican photo essayist and portrait photographer
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Matt Eich: American Photojournalist and Portrait Photographer
- Education and Career
- The Invisible Yoke
- Personal Projects and Family Photography
- Financial Considerations
- Accolades and Recognition
- Notable Image: "Elvis the Zebra"
- Challenges of Photography
- Influences and Inspirations
- Personal Interests and Activities
Matt Eich: American Photojournalist and Portrait Photographer
Early Life and InfluencesMatt Eich, born in 1986 in Virginia, grew up in a rural environment that shaped his perspective and artistic sensibility. His interest in photography emerged early on, when his grandfather handed him a compact camera during a trip they took together.
Education and Career
Eich earned a degree in Photojournalism from Ohio University and a Master's in Fine Arts (Photography) from Hartford Art School. He briefly worked as a staff photographer for The Virginian-Pilot before transitioning to freelance photography in 2005.
The Invisible Yoke
Since 2010, Eich has dedicated himself to a multi-chapter photo essay titled "The Invisible Yoke," exploring contemporary issues in America. The four volumes of the project, scheduled for release between 2017 and 2020, collectively provide an insightful commentary on social, economic, and political landscapes.
Personal Projects and Family Photography
In addition to his larger projects, Eich creates intimate black-and-white portraits of his family, which are set to be published in a book in 2017. He balances his freelance work and personal projects with the support of his wife, who provides financial stability and allows him to focus on his craft.
Financial Considerations
While photography can be an unstable profession, Eich maintains a diverse revenue stream through assignments, grants, personal commissions, and teaching. He acknowledges the ongoing challenge of balancing financial concerns with his artistic pursuits.
Accolades and Recognition
Eich's work has been exhibited nationally and internationally and is included in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions such as the Houston Museum of Fine Arts, Portland Art Museum, and the New York Public Library. He has received grants from the Alexia Foundation and Aaron Siskind Fellowship, and his work has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, The New York Times, and Esquire.
Notable Image: "Elvis the Zebra"
Among Eich's most recognizable images is his 2008 portrait of a zebra named Elvis in Cumberland, Ohio. The striking photograph depicts the animal as isolated and out of place, embodying themes of vulnerability and societal disconnect.
Challenges of Photography
Eich acknowledges the difficulties associated with photography as a profession. Despite the financial constraints and societal misconceptions, he believes in the transformative power of capturing meaningful images.
Influences and Inspirations
Eich finds inspiration from the works of Christian Hansen, Mustafah Abdulaziz, and Curran Hatleberg. He views their ability to capture the intangibles of human experience as a constant source of artistic motivation.
Personal Interests and Activities
Beyond photography, Eich enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, and reading. He believes that the balance between his personal life and his work is crucial for his overall well-being and creativity.
