How does one sum up a lifetime of Art?
"We would sit for hours on the side of a back country road as Mom meticulously chronicled every angle and shadow of a Barn. Waiting. Dad would say, "It builds character." Looking back, it built an inspiration and conviction to follow our dreams." - Daughter #1
“I don’t have a memory of wanting to become an artist. I simply followed my passion. I don’t feel I ever became an artist in the sense that one becomes a lawyer. I was always an Artist. I was born one.”
A prolific artist, Bridget Matzke has spent over 50 years traversing the country to preserve the legacy and beauty of the American Barn. Icons of American society, structures that echo the heartiness of the American Soul - lost, but not forgotten. It has been her life’s work to document a part of our countries vanishing history. Far too many of the Barns and Lighthouses featured in her works are no longer standing.
Through her long and illustrious career, Bridget has worked in Pen & Ink, Copper Plate Etching, Water Color and Photography. Illustrating literature, Commissioned pieces and mining the back roads of the Mid-west for inspiration. Her work has been featured in Galleries across the great Mid-west, showcased in books, shown at Epcot Center and carried on Asian trade missions.
This site is but a small taste of her works, selected for your enjoyment. Intermingled with quotes and sayings from Bridget and her family. We truly hope it brings a smile to your face as you get a glimpse into this unique American artist, otherwise known as our mom.
