Matt Wyer was contracted to create a custom ski design for a friend a few months ago. We loved that design so much, we asked Matt to take a crack at producing a small graphic series for us. Community is a very big part of Folsom’s ethos, and we are extremely excited to give this young artist a platform to showcase his skills on a unique canvas.
In a world of AI-generated images, Matt incorporates a refreshing take on some classic Western art. These graphics are now available immediately on all Custom builds.
How did you get involved with Folsom?
My good buddy Kevin Rifkin asked me to design his custom Folsom skis earlier this year. We went with a full Western theme for his. Now he’s the best skier on the mountain.
Where did you grow up and what brought you to Colorado?
I grew up in Minnesota and have been in Colorado for 10 years now. I grew up skiing and fell in love with Denver the few times I visited when I was younger. My dad was a ski and snowboard instructor when I was growing up so it was a natural transition.
Tell us a bit about your background and how you started illustrating?
I’ve always been a doodler and creatively inclined, but it really took off in 2020 during lockdown. I was furloughed from my job for 5 months and drove out to live in California for a good chunk of that time. I started biking and drawing a lot, which was incredibly peaceful. I made an Instagram for fun to post my work, gained a little following, and quickly began doing custom work for friends and strangers alike. From there, I bought an iPad and a new computer and taught myself procreate, Illustrator, photoshop, etc. and have been doing digital art ever since!
Do you have any fun methods to get you into your creative space when designing?
I love going on long walks in the city, listening to music, just living in my own little world. I get a lot of inspiration from observing the natural world around me and soaking in the vibrance of the big city. I also don’t sleep well so I come up with a lot of my best ideas in the middle of the night, for better or worse. I’ll surprise myself in what I find in my Notes app in the morning.
Where are your favorite places to ski?
Whistler, Vail, and Red Lodge, Montana
Which Folsom ski and graphic will you be shredding next season?
I’ll be ripping a 187cm Cash 106 with the DarkLines Skipper!
Any other fun talents we should know about?
I dabble in music production, photography, and road biking
What are your thoughts on AI image generators and the future of graphic design?
Robots are good at taking direction, but they will NEVER replicate true creativity.
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
Basquiat, Hiroshi Nagai, Ralph Steadman, and can’t forget my boy, Picasso
Any last remarks?
I’m truly so grateful to be working with such an amazing company like Folsom, combining the two things I love most – art and skiing. Hope to see some DarkLines on the mountain next year!
