“A rat race is for rats. We're not rats. We're human beings. Reject the insidious pressures in society that would blunt your critical faculties to all that is happening around you, that would caution silence in the face of injustice lest you jeopardise your chances of promotion and self-advancement.”— Jimmy Reid

Describing his phenomenal contribution to Salad Days, Dylan writes, “This sort of all came together perfectly… I believe the works I have been making resonated well with the theme of the show. These paintings explore how the "rat race" took away the purity of my salad days since early adulthood, and how it has affected my perception of myself and those closest to me.’

Challenging social constructs through cartoon-like imagery is an important facet to Dylan’s work. His fascination with animation from his childhood has led him to creating drawings and paintings that are rooted in that cartoon language. He sees cartoons as a powerful tool that can be used to discuss topics that are not typically approachable. For Matamoros, it is crucial to have a light-hearted, humorous approach to his work in order to allow for personal, reflective commentary.

Acrylic on canvas

30” x 40”

Acrylic on canvas

30” x 40”

Acrylic on canvas

30” x 40”

Acrylic on canvas

30” x 40”