Kathy Matta

Kathy Matta'a original works of art are made of natural lacquer resin from trees native to China. The lacquer is made from the actual tree's sap colored with natural pigments such as: mother-of-Pearl, duck eggshells, silver and gold leafing, and many colorful minerals.

The history of lacquer paintings dates back to roughly 7000 years ago. Although it was first used for coffins and house wares such as pots and bowls, it was later introduced as a painting medium. To this day lacquer paintings are one of China's 5th treasures.

Matta studied this medium for nine years in Southern China, and during that time she discovered that natural lacquer is considered to be a living material. She states, "As a lacquer painting ages it becomes more luminous, vibrant, and is always changing".

Yet, the use of natural lacquer resin as an art form is declining because of the time it takes to create these paintings. The art form is very labor intensive, takings up to a year to complete, due to the drying and polishing processes. However, there are those who are purists to this form of art, including Matta herself. Through her art she educates the public about natural lacquer paintings, along with keeping this magnificent, traditional art alive.