MATTHEW CHAPMAN

This collection was created in 2012 documenting the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic for the 100th anniversary of the disaster. Over 80 paintings were created in total, a selection displayed at the Arts & Letters Club of Toronto depicting events surrounding the ship during its short life, the lavish interiors of first class, to the utilitarian designs of third class and crew spaces. The sinking is depicted with emphasis on movement of water, desperate passengers and crew, and contrasts of pitch black, and devilish reds of failing electrical power, captured in Impressionistic acrylics creating an essence of the early 20th century era. When presented at the Arts & Letters Club, the exhibit was enhanced with a dinner inspired by the menu from first class of the last night, and a dramatic performance based upon survivor testimonials and a reading of The Titanic, the 1935 epic poem by E.J. Pratt. 
 

Above is a digitally drawn cross section of inside the Titanic (click to see it in full size). Below are selections of acrylic paintings from the collection.