Matthew Holland was born in London in 1963, and has lived in Devon since 1966. He learned hand-engraving, die-sinking, metalworking and lettering from his father, David Holland, founder of the family firm, the Bigbury Mint, and received formal training in graphic design at Plymouth College of Art and Design. He has been working at Bigbury Mint since 1985, and has been involved with all aspects of the medal-striking trade. He writes: ‘I find it very satisfying to be able to produce medals from designing, sculpting and die-making, to striking and finishing, and to know that they will last for thousands of years. I take inspiration from everything around me. My central theme is portraying positive things, good times I have had, and idealistic visions.’ Holland lives with his girlfriend Kate in the South Hams and enjoys tennis, football, painting, guitar playing and motorcycle riding. About his medal for BAMS the artist writes: ‘The title of the medal is The Promise and it’s something that could be given to a loved one. The obverse shows young nubile lovers whilst the reverse shows the same people grown old and wrinkly. This medal is a celebration of growing old together. It can be summed up by the words, “Life is strange, but whatever the change, the fact remains, I love you.” During the last few years of a fifteen-year marriage, I thought increasingly of the promise we had given each other – to live together for ever. I became more aware that we were growing apart and wanted different things in our lives. At this time I made some sketches for a Promise medal. In 2001 my wife and I separated, leaving us and our two sons sad, bewildered and asking deep questions of ourselves. We are now divorced. I was aware of the irony of the Promise medal but wanted to continue with it. I now have a new partner, and we are considering the implications and validity of giving each other this promise.’
Artist contact details:
web: http://www.bigburymint.com
email: [email protected]