Welcome to the Torch Spotlight, a new series that takes you behind the scenes to introduce the people who support our artists, gallery, and keep our programs running. To kick things off, we sat down with our Communications & Marketing Manager, Mathew Mackie, to chat about his favourite artworks, his office rituals, and the importance of inconvenient coffee.
The Torch: Hi Mathew, welcome to the team! Can you tell our audience about yourself and where you’re from?
Mathew: Wallawani, everybody! I’m a proud Yuin/Wiradjuri man, raised on Dharawal country. Over the last decade, I’ve worked extensively in the communications space in media, policy, and First Nations advocacy. I’m very excited to be here at The Torch, and I particularly love our focus on art and advocacy.
Since joining the team, which artworks at The Torch have really stuck with you?
First up is Keanu’s My Totem the Wren. It was actually the first piece I saw in the gallery when I attended my job interview. It is also the first piece that I purchased as part of the team, which is a nice little tradition we have. As the artist explains, the Superb Fairy Wren is the totem of the Gunaikurnai, but those feathered friends are also culturally significant on Yuin country, where I’m from, and they’re always a treat to see during walks on the beach.
Second is Ash Thomas‘ The Beauty of Fire. Ash is a big part of The Torch team; he does everything and is genuinely one of the nicest people you could ever meet. He’s also an incredibly talented artist. Some people have it all.
My last selection is GM Black’s Echidna Dreaming #2. No notes, it’s just beautiful. Just look at it.
In three words, how would you describe the energy at The Torch?
Collaborative, warm and loud.
What keeps you grounded or inspired during the week?
The availability of connection. Whatever their position at The Torch, everyone is always up for a chat, and everyone wants to help with whatever you have on. If I’m feeling flat or uninspired, I just go for a stroll around the office and find someone to talk to.
If you had to teach a 10-minute masterclass on a topic completely unrelated to your job, what would it be?
Easy. It would be a deep dive on how to collect advice from people to give to others, but never (ever) using it yourself.
What is your hottest and most meaningless take?
The coffee shop nearest to your house or work is always terrible. That, and not having something is far better than having it. Prove me wrong.
Lastly, is there anything you want to share with our audience?
Yes. Sign up to our newsletter.
