Shirley Mathew, graduated in Psychology (Hons), Jesus and Mary College, Delhi and later opted for intensive studies in art at the Corcoran College of Art and Design in the US. Her instructors were Internationally known (late) William Christenberry, Steven Cushner and Jeanne Porter. Further trained at Escola Llotja,Barcelona, the institution where Picasso studied in his early years.
A short residency at the Garhi Studios of Lalit Kala Akademi on invitation by R B Bhaskaran, eminent artist and Chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi, Delhi, and training in Italy led to another dimension in art practice. Shirley Mathew represented Karnataka at the Art Fusion Show, Mumbai, to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Statehood of Maharastra and is also a Finalist in a National Competition.
She won an online International award, received from Ecoaware Art Gallery, when out of 35 countries and 300 applicants, 38 artists were declared exemplary. Spanning more than two decades, 19 solos, seventy-odd group shows, her works have been displayed in ten Indian cities. She completed courses in Madhubani Painting and Basic paper making courses conducted by eminent artists.
Shirley has created a presence in Abstract Expressionism for nearly 3 decades and each painting has a narrative for the viewer to decipher. Inspired by Nature to express spirituality, Philosophy or her concern for the ecosystem, that humanity has senselessly destroyed in the quest for ‘growth’. Mixed medium is her choice in art practice, that has recently shifted to sustainable art, to create interest in the art fraternity. Her works are in the collection of Corporate Houses and private collections in India and abroad. Shirley Mathew is the Art Consultant and Curator at the M K F Museum of Art, Bengaluru.
