Peacemaker Interview
- What does visual peacemaking mean to you?
Visual peacemaking is about willfully creating images that accomplish good in the world- as opposed to evil- because images have the power to do either and we must remain aware of that. It takes many different forms, the most obvious of which is photography that promotes humanitarian work or causes. But on a broader level it strengthens social conscience toward a sense of responsibility regarding injustice and environment, and it cultivates a culture of compassion and concern.
- What motivates you to be a peacemaker?
I’m motivated by a love for people and a respect for culture, by my fascination with the natural world, and by a desire for exploration. I also have a passion for inspiring others to do great things with their own skills and life. As a person of faith-based convictions, my photography is also a visual expression of my Christian worldview. My understanding of the divine is the selfless compassion as exemplified by the person and story of Christ. That’s what holds it all together for me. It brings me great satisfaction to express ALL of this to as many people as possible, and it naturally seems to be taking the shape of what is also becoming known as “visual peacemaking.”
- Have you ever felt stereotyped?
In the past I’ve felt stereotyped by “photojournalists” who misunderstand the use & purpose of my work, but less so as this movement grows.
- How does your camera get you to reflect on your world and your life?
I’m currently on staff with an international relief organization. In many ways I see my role as that of a bridge builder between those in need of assistance & those willing to give it. My job is to visit locations where relief work is happening and to document the work taking place, but it’s also about documenting the raw experience of what it’s like to be there, in that culture, with those people, which is a completely reflective process. My camera helps me to convey my fascination with other cultures and the world as I find it, as well as my compassion for suffering and my hope for seemingly hopeless situations. It’s a way of translating my experience for others, and doing so gives my life more meaning.
- What do you like to photograph best?
Life in the developing world.
- What technical aspect of photography do you find most challenging?
Right now I’m struggling to move beyond typical portraiture to something that has profound meaning. I think there is a technical challenge to this, although most of it might be creative.
My Biography
For over 8 years Matt has worked as staff photographer and multimedia producer for the humanitarian Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse. He has traveled on assignment to over 40 different countries documenting relief & development work among communities in need and in transition. His images raise private, charitable donations worldwide.
Matt’s passion is to bridge the gap between those in need and those who are willing to help, and he employs the power of images to do so. Humanitarian photography is a profoundly spiritual and emotional endeavor for Matt because of its’ power to supersede both language and culture. By connecting with his subjects on an emotional and experiential level, his images transfer his own hope and compassion to the viewer, inviting them to become part of the solution, to become part of the story themselves.
Matt has partnered with local grassroots development movements in remote African villages, as well as back home in North Carolina for conversation and sustainable tourism initiatives. Matt’s latest endeavor involves turning his lens towards his home region of western North Carolina in support of a growing sustainability movement happening there.
My Recent Activity
- I added: Do you shoot what you LOVE or HATE?
to Blog on October 12, 2010
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