Doers and Dreamers – Matthew Pleva

Not only has Kingston seen an influx of artists from all over the world, we’ve got some homegrown talent of our own making a go of it with their own creations, as well as promoting the art of others. It’s not a wonder that Kingston is becoming a regional Mecca for artists when there is such a supportive environment for artists of all types and from what I see, big things are yet to come. Meet this week’s Doer and Dreamer, Matt Pleva, who is making his mark(literally) on the Kingston art scene. He is painting a huge mural as part of the upcoming O+ Festival along side of the Peace Park on N. Front St. Don’t miss it!

Your name: Matthew Pleva

Business or organization: The Art Riot, 36 John Street in Kingston

Occupation: Co-Owner of The Art Riot and artist/ illustrator

What is your approach to your business or occupation that makes you unique?
At The Art Riot the concept is to focus on local artists and crafts people and their talents. Also to provide a support to both beginner and seasoned artists.

Where are you from originally?
I was born and raised in Kingston. I live in the house I grew up in.

What brought you to the Kingston area and keeps you in this area?
Well I guess birth brought me to Kingston. What keeps me in the area are the friendships and contacts I have forged over the years. Also to see how Kingston is changing makes me want to see where it will end up.

What is your favorite hangout in this area and why?
My studio between 10 PM and 4 AM

When you’re not in Kingston, what’s your idea of a wonderful city to visit, and why?
I don’t venture out much, to my wife’s chagrin. But Amsterdam and Prague are wonderful and I would love to go Germany and Austria

Tell us something that we never would have guessed about you.
I enjoy romantic comedies way too much.