You don't have to think of yourself as creative to begin.
Maybe you..
Have always wanted to learn to draw or paint but never felt talented enough.
Are looking for a gift that feels more personal than something mass-produced.
Or simply want more space in your life for something meaningful.
We understand how much courage it can take to begin, because both of our creative journeys started with stepping into something new.
OUR STORY
Every creative journey begins with a single step. Ours began with a leap of faith.
We met in Pennsylvania while working for the same company in the corporate world. Like many young professionals, we were building careers, planning for the future and following a traditional path. But Joe's dream of pursuing art never really went away.
When Joe was accepted to study under classical artist Jacob Collins in New York City, we decided to take the leap. We sold our businesses, moved to New York, and Joe spent the next five years immersed in classical drawing and painting while Tiani continued her career in financial services.
After Joe graduated, we moved to Florida to build Mattus Fine Art. Joe began creating artwork and teaching while Tiani continued working remotely and helping build his business behind the scenes. Years later, after retiring from financial services, Tiani thought she would simply step into a larger role supporting Joe's work.
Then a promise to make a chunky knit blanket for her granddaughter opened an unexpected door. Tiani had spent most of her life believing she was not creative, but making that first blanket brought a sense of peace, accomplishment and joy she had never expected. One blanket became new stitches, cuddle companions and an entirely new creative journey.
Although our paths began differently, they led us to the same place. We discovered that creativity builds confidence, teaches patience, helps us slow down and creates meaningful connections with the people we love. That shared belief is what Mattus Fine Art has become today.
Did you know?
Joe is…
An artist, instructor and lifelong student of realistic classical drawing and painting.
Tiani is…
Retired from a career in the financial space before discovering her own creative path through knitting.
Our beginning…
We met while working for the same company in Pennsylvania and later moved to New York so Joe could pursue classical art training.
Our home today…
Mattus Fine Art now brings both creative journeys together through Mindful Artist Academy and Tiani's Handmade from Clermont, Florida.
Different paths. The same invitation to create, grow, and connect.
Through Mindful Artist Academy, Joe helps artists develop realistic drawing and painting skills while building confidence, patience and trust in the process.
Through Tiani's Handmade, Tiani creates blankets and Cuddle Companions designed to bring warmth, comfort and connection, while opening the door to future patterns and workshops for people who want to discover the joy of making something themselves.