Max Whetter

My work is a reflection on how cultural pressures for men to behave and act in a certain way, with ridiculous modes of exaggerated toxic masculinity and how it was presented to me growing up. I build layers of bright pinks and energetic marks within my portraits of blokes. I mix simplicity and complexity simultaneously to build tension and anxiety. My subjects are caught in a moment of reflection and vulnerability to ask questions about identity and masculinity.

I paint onto Perspex sheets, allowing me to work on both side as to build up depth and layers with in my paintings. The inspiration for using Perspex came after wondering through a big diy store. During my art degree I had a minor crisis about what I was doing and thought I should have maybe been working towards some kind of trade instead, this lead me to walking around the diy store looking for some inspiration.

Instagram: @maxwhetter

Where would you like your work to take you?

I’m not sure where my paintings will takes me, although I’d be happy to be able to keep a studio space, and preferably with a curb outside I can skate.

Which part of your creative process do you enjoy most?

I most enjoy the application of paint and Mark making. Working on Perspex allows me to push and spread the paint around for longer. I get excited building up layers and all the different stages underneath the final painting.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

Inspiration comes from the people I work and overheard conversation there. I work in a busy kitchen with a lot of funny characters.

What piece of music would you say compliments your work the most?

idles - never fight a man with a perm