How Matt Beyrer Turns Wood Grain into Works of Art
Matt Beyrer’s journey to becoming one of Park West Gallery’s most sought-after contemporary artists began in an unexpected way. After being bitten by an eight-foot-long hammerhead shark, Beyrer spent weeks recovering under the calming influence of Bob Ross’s instructional painting shows. What began as a way to pass the time during his recovery ultimately inspired him to become a painter.
What makes Beyrer’s paintings so unique is not only his chosen canvas, but also how he incorporates it into every composition. He creates works of art that turn simple planks of wood into vivid worlds of color and imagination, using the natural wood grain as a key part of the painting rather than concealing it beneath layers of paint.
Visitors can experience this distinctive approach firsthand through July 30, 2026, at Matt Beyrer: Harnessing the Rhythm of the Wood Grain, on view at Park West’s SoHo Gallery.
A graduate of the Ringling College of Art and Design with a degree in Illustration, Beyrer combines technical realism with an innovative creative process. Before he begins painting, he studies the natural grain of each wooden panel, allowing its swirls, knots, and organic patterns to help shape the final composition. His original technique of pairing the patterns of nature found in the wood grain with highly realistic imagery gives each painting a sense of movement and life. Whether depicting tranquil landscapes, glowing twilight reflections, or rain-soaked city streets illuminated by neon lights, Beyrer creates works that feel as though they have emerged naturally from the wood itself.
This distinctive approach has earned Beyrer an enthusiastic international following.
He is the only artist in Park West Gallery history to achieve 17 consecutive sold-out shows, a testament to both the originality of his work and the demand among collectors.
Don’t miss your chance to see his latest collection through July 30, 2026, and perhaps add one of these extraordinary works to your collection during Matt Beyrer: Harnessing the Rhythm of the Wood Grain at Park West’s SoHo Gallery.
