10 Questions with Matt Gabler

Hailing from the vibrant Chicago area, Matt Gabler is a self-taught abstract painter whose work radiates emotion and vitality. As the grandson of world-renowned artist Matt Lamb, Gabler carries forward his family’s artistic legacy while forging his own distinct path. His paintings are a bold exploration of life’s challenges and triumphs, using vibrant colours and expressive strokes to transform hardship into beauty and resilience.

Since beginning his artistic journey in 2021, Gabler has cultivated an impressive career, earning recognition through numerous group exhibitions, awards, and critical acclaim. His work has transcended boundaries, leading to dozens of solo shows across the United States and internationally. Career highlights include prestigious exhibitions at the Louvre Biennale, Cannes Art Film Festival, and showcases in Austria and Switzerland, among others.

Deeply committed to inspiring and uplifting others, Gabler uses his art to support meaningful causes. Through collaborations with organizations such as the Cancer Treatment Centers of America and the Rizzo Foundation, his work serves as a vehicle for hope and healing, reinforcing the profound impact art can have on individuals and communities alike.

www.mattgablerart.com | @matthewlambg

ARTIST STATEMENT

Matt Gabler’s art serves as both a sanctuary and a challenge—an avenue through which he channels the complexities of life into something tangible, meaningful, and transformative. As a self-taught abstract painter, he employs vibrant colours, bold textures, and unrestrained strokes to convey the resilience and beauty that emerge from hardship. His work extends beyond aesthetic exploration, fostering a deep sense of connection and inviting viewers to reflect on shared human experiences of struggle and triumph.

Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Gabler was immersed in the arts from an early age, influenced by his grandfather, the renowned Matt Lamb. This legacy instilled in him a profound respect for creativity as a force for change. While honouring that foundation, he has forged his own path, emphasizing individuality and emotional authenticity. Since embarking on his artistic journey in 2021, he has exhibited his work on international stages, including the Louvre Biennale and the Cannes Art Film Festival, alongside solo shows across the United States and Europe.

At its core, Gabler’s art is rooted in hope. His collaborations with organizations such as the Cancer Treatment Centers of America and the Rizzo Foundation exemplify his commitment to using art as a vehicle for healing and inspiration. Whether displayed in galleries or supporting meaningful causes, his paintings serve as a reminder of the beauty that can arise from even the most challenging moments.

INTERVIEW

First of all, what led you to pursue painting, and how has your artistic journey evolved since you started in 2021?

I started painting because I couldn’t shake this relentless urge to create. It’s tough to explain, but it felt like my soul was craving a fresh chapter—one bursting with expression and discovery. Since 2021, my journey has morphed from quiet experimentation into a full-on pursuit. I’ve gone from dabbling behind closed doors to exhibiting internationally, each step fueling my drive to refine my craft and share it boldly.

Your grandfather, Matt Lamb, was a significant figure in the art world. How has his legacy influenced your owncreative path?

Matt Lamb’s legacy lights a fire under me. Knowing I’m following in the footsteps of someone so revered pushes me to be my best in this wild art world. It’s a quiet competition I thrive on—I’m a homebody, but his influence gets me going. When I’m stuck or doubt myself, I turn to his writings and videos. Suddenly, I’m flooded with ideas, inspired by his fearless creativity.

More generally, how does your personal experience shape the way you approach abstract art?

My approach to abstract art is raw and unfiltered. I don’t hesitate or plot every move—at least not in the beginning. Life’s chaotic and unpredictable, and I let that spill onto the canvas. Phase one is paint flying, pure instinct. As I near the end, it calms—more crafted, more intentional—mirroring how we find clarity through life’s mess. It’s a shared human thread I want everyone to feel.

Your work is rooted in hope and resilience. How do you translate these themes into colour, texture, and form?

Hope and resilience come alive in my bright colours and bold shapes. I lean into vivid hues and striking textures to spark an overwhelming rush of inspiration. Anyone—whatever their story—can see my work and connect to its energy. It’s not about dwelling on past struggles; it’s a loud triumph over them, a celebration of growing stronger through every storm.

What role does intuition play in your painting process? Do you plan compositions, or do they evolve spontaneously?

Intuition drives everything—I never plan. If I knew exactly what I’d paint, I’d just disappoint myself. I trust the flow: paint splashes, water pools, and the canvas takes shape naturally. My job is to step aside and let it bloom. Too many artists smother their work with control; I’d rather give it room to surprise me and become something beautiful on its own.

You’ve exhibited on international stages like the Louvre Biennale and the Cannes Art Film Festival. How have these experiences shaped your perspective as an artist?

Those stages showed me art’s unstoppable power. Standing among global creators at places like the Louvre Biennale or Cannes, I saw how soul-deep expression resonates everywhere. It’s reinforced my belief that art isn’t just a craft—it’s a force that connects and inspires, no matter where you are.

What emotions or reflections do you hope your viewers take away from your work?

I want my paintings to hit hard and fast—love it or hate it, just feel something. If you love it, let it ignite your resilience and motivation. If you hate it, pinpoint why—I want that clarity too. Either way, I’m after an instant reaction that sticks with you, stirring your own story into the mix.

As a self-taught artist, what have been the biggest challenges and advantages in developing your practice?

The toughest part was settling into a style I could own. For years, I painted in secret, hiding from judgment. When I finally stepped into the spotlight, the early flops stung—humiliation was real. But that built thick skin and guts to experiment. Now, that confidence is my edge; it’s unleashed me to push boundaries and see what I’m truly capable of.

For Those That Are Anxious © Matt Gabler

What’s next for you? Are there any new directions, themes, or collaborations you’re excited to explore?

I’m diving deeper into the subconscious mind—unpacking what sparks our gut reactions to the world around us. I want to explore how patience in one person can breed calm and clarity while its absence in another stirs chaos and tension. It’s a theme that’s pulling me in, and I’m excited to see how it unfolds in my work, maybe even through some unexpected collaborations down the line.

And lastly, where can our readers find you next? Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations you want to share with us?

This year’s packed with excitement—I’m hitting Art Expo New York and Art Vancouver, plus more surprises I can’t wait to share. I’m exploring bolder themes and maybe some unexpected collaborations. For the latest, readers can follow my journey on social media or my website—everything’s there, from updates to new drops. Stay tuned!

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.

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