Matthew DeFord


Contact Info

Matthew DeFord
Assistant Professor of Sculpture
Office: 318-357-6560
Email: RimW3LW@ORTdC.edu


Education
M.F.A., Sculpture, 12/04, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS.
B.F.A., Sculpture, 8/01, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT.
A.F.A. , Painting, 12/98, Ricks College, Rexburg, ID.
Matthew DeFord

Teaching Philosophy

My interactions with the students direct them according to their level of ability both formally and conceptually. I am not there to coerce them in my own direction, but rather to build upon their talents and intuition by allowing them to have confidence in their decision-making.

I believe that the beginning of art education should be mainly formal training. The student should feel comfortable in the various processes before they undertake heavy conceptual and philosophical ideas. These ideas are suggested throughout the student’s education, but I feel they can be handled with greater power once knowledge of the processes is strengthened.

The intermediate student needs to begin their awareness of historical and contemporary theories, and how they can be communicated through the various art processes. Their artistic voice should begin to clarify.

The advanced student should be working in series and with a definite direction in their thinking. They should be documenting and exhibiting their work in preparation for an art career and/or graduate studies.

At all levels, the students should be reading art periodicals, attending art exhibits in museums and art centers, and evaluating their work through the work of other artists.

It is a powerful moment for a student to realize that they are confident in their abilities both formally and conceptually. That begins when they learn to make decisions for themselves. This, for me, is the essence of teaching.


Marked for Delivery
"Marked for Delivery"
Cast Iron, Styrofoam,
Cardboard, Wood
2004 		Handle with Care
"Handle with Care"
Wood, Steel, Nylon,
Light, Audio
2004
"Delivered Up"
Silicone, Styrofoam, Cardboard,
Wood, Lights
2004 		Mortal Importable III-Loot
"Mortal Importable III-Loot"
Wood, Steel, Nylon, Toys, Lights
2004
Artist Statement
There is a certain magic to the unknown. My sculptures address this in concepts and processes. I get excited when someone viewing my art sincerely wants to touch, listen and explore. I know their secrets and I’m willing to share them a piece at a time.