Originally from California, Mateo moved to Berlin in 2003. His artwork usually incorporates old materials that he finds on the street or at local flea-markets in Germany. Upon these box lids, munitions crates, tobacco tins, and street signs, he creates a world that seems to emerge from another time, or perhaps another dimension. His lovable monsters reflect ourselves back at us. Some display curiosity with a tinge of unease, while others have seemingly been caught unawares whilst having an everyday moment. Just about every image seems to tell a story and invites the viewer to imagine what might occur next.

Video of Mateo painting: