Born in Hungary and raised in Israel, Mati Gelman’s formative years were marked by a profound interest in the natural sciences. He pursued this passion academically, earning a degree in Biochemistry from the Israel Institute of Technology (Technion) and a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry from Bar Ilan University in Tel Aviv. These academic achievements laid a solid foundation for his analytical and methodical approach to problem-solving.
Transition to Photography
In 2016, Gelman relocated to New York City with his husband, a move that catalyzed a significant career transformation. Initially, photography was a hobby, a means to document family hiking trips with greater clarity and detail. However, his fascination with the interplay of light and the intricate details captured through a professional lens ignited a deeper passion. Gelman began experimenting with digital composites and collages, seeking to deconstruct and understand the components of each image. This exploration marked his transition from the structured world of chemistry to the creative realm of photography. Boynes Artist AwardArt Market Magazine
Artistic Philosophy and Themes
Gelman’s work is a harmonious blend of his scientific background and artistic vision. He describes his journey as moving from manipulating molecules to manipulating pixels, balancing the granular with the grand. His photography delves into themes of queerness and the integration of humans with nature, often evoking feelings of rapture, wonder, and a sense of unmooring. As a composite artist, Gelman gravitates towards surrealism grounded in tangible reality, utilizing his camera to bridge the analytical and the philosophical aspects of his mind. The Flying Fruit Bowlartcubenation.com+2LensCulture+2Boynes Artist Award+2Boynes Artist Award+1LensCulture+1
Notable Works and Techniques
One of Gelman’s acclaimed pieces, “Inhabitants,” exemplifies his approach to photography. Captured at the Dead Sea, the image features a dancer moving gracefully on salt sheets that resemble ice, juxtaposed against the oppressively hot environment. This setting, both stunning and harsh, reflects the delicate balance of life in extreme conditions. Gelman’s process involved photographing the dancer in various poses and then compositing these images to create a surreal yet cohesive narrative. He employed DSLR cameras for shooting and utilized software like Capture One and Photoshop for post-processing, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and technical proficiency. Boynes Artist Award
Recognition and Exhibitions
Gelman’s innovative work has garnered international acclaim. He has received accolades such as the UMBRA International Photography Awards, the Fine Art Photography Awards (FAPA), and the International Color Photography Contest’s Chromatic Awards. In 2021, he was a finalist in Microsoft’s “Original by Design” competition. His creations have been showcased in esteemed galleries and platforms, including Artsy, Dabart, More Art Please, Photoplace, and SMUSH. Additionally, his work is featured in publications like “Dance Vision” from Abrams Books and his own compilation, “Painting with Light,” which highlights five years of his artistic journey. Art Market Magazine+1LensCulture+1LensCulture+1Art Market Magazine+1
Studio and Current Endeavors
Beyond his photographic pursuits, Gelman operates a 3,000-square-foot studio in New York City. The space is equipped with amenities such as a cyclorama, library, makeup station, and full kitchen, making it suitable for various shoots and events. This studio serves as a creative hub where Gelman continues to explore and expand his artistic horizons. Art Market Magazine
Conclusion
Mati Gelman’s evolution from a chemist to a celebrated fine art photographer is a testament to the seamless integration of scientific inquiry and artistic expression. His work challenges perceptions, inviting viewers to explore the intricate relationships between humanity and the natural world. Through his lens, Gelman continues to craft narratives that resonate deeply, bridging the realms of the tangible and the surreal.
