Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Drey.
Matt, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was offered by the owner of the Kava Collective, Glenn Prickett, to promote arts and community events at the gallery attached to his business. When he bought the place from the previous owners, he was questioning what to do with the large open space next to his business. I suggested that he display art and give back to the community, and that’s what he did.
Several years later, after I retired from 23 years in law enforcement, he offered me the chance to promote the space and thats how Matt Drey Arts was formed. I want to promote local artists, with full gallery shows, in a space where they feel comfortable expanding their theme. The space is also a dedicated community space where we hold events varying from self-help groups, spoken word events, music showcases to women’s reproductive health seminars and more.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
So far so good!. Lol. I’m just getting started! My long career in law enforcement and struggles with PTSD and have given me the drive to give back to the community. I want to spend my life now in an effort to enrich the world, to do something spirit building because ultimately, I believe that the arts are what helped me through my struggles in life. When I was a kid, growing up in New York City, a block and a half from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, when I was troubled, I used to cut class and wander the galleries. That sense of solace has never left me and I want to create a space where others can do the same.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
Matt Drey Arts is a newfound company that is currently promoting Arts shows and community events at the Kava Collective in Hillcrest. My focus is creating a space where established artist can expand their theme to fill the room, where up and coming artists have a chance to show their work in a gallery setting and where we host community events.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I have been really lucky! I was fortunate to grow up in a great city, New York and when I found my way to San Diego, I was lucky to find my new home! I think luck is really the ability to capitalize on opportunity when it presents itself and being able to be willing to take risks.
Contact Info:
- Website: mattdreyarts.com
- Email: mattdreyarts@gmail.com
- Instagram: mattdrey_arts
- Facebook: mattdreyarts
Image Credit:
Brandon Colbert
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