Originally from North Central Wisconsin, Matthew Jacobson grew up surrounded by wildlife and rural life—an environment that quietly shaped his creative spirit. He discovered his artistic talent early on, but it wasn’t until high school, when his sister brought home a set of oil paints from college, that his love for the medium truly took hold. He’s been painting with oils ever since, also working in watercolor, sketching, and sculpting in wood.


Matthew’s work is deeply influenced by the subjects he’s closest to: horses, cats, football, and hockey. These aren't simply motifs—they are lived experiences. He began riding horses at age 14, an experience that sparked a new confidence and led him to farrier school, which helped fund his college education. For 16 years, he farmed with horses in Wisconsin, a life that brought him face-to-face with the dignity of labor and the quiet power of animals. That sense of presence continues in his art.



Portraits are central to Matthew’s work—both of people and animals—capturing individuals in their element, doing what they do best. His style is representational, defined by bold, smart strokes that seek to express the truth of what he sees, exactly as he sees it. He doesn’t aim to dramatize or distort—his goal is to honor the essence of the subject with sincerity and clarity.



Although he holds a BS in Art Education, Matthew spent much of his career supporting the arts through custom picture framing, a 24-year chapter that kept him connected to creative communities while continuing his own practice. A college professor once told him he painted like John Singer Sargent—a comment that both encouraged and challenged him to pursue his own voice with greater intention.



His work has been featured at the Lewis Art Gallery in Omaha, the Trump Building on Fifth Avenue in New York City, and the National Gallery of Agriculture in David City, Nebraska. Since relocating to Midland, Michigan, he’s been exploring new opportunities to connect with local artists and venues across the MBS region.



Matthew is also a student of spiritual direction. His creative life and spiritual journey are deeply intertwined, guided by the verse: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)