DC Artists:

Matt Sesow is a self-taught Washington, DC-based painter known for his bold, emotionally charged artwork that confronts personal trauma, political unrest, and social commentary with raw, unapologetic energy. Since 1994, Sesow has created tens of thousands of paintings from his downtown DC studio, just blocks from the National Mall. His work has been exhibited internationally and is part of major museum collections, including the American Visionary Art Museum, where he had a year-long solo exhibition. Often working with oil on canvas or paper, Sesow incorporates recurring symbols—like trauma cups, bunnies, and defiant figures—that reflect his unique journey, including surviving a childhood accident that resulted in the loss of his dominant hand. His DIY ethic, relentless output, and international collector base have made him one of the most successful living artists in the District. Highlights:

Solo museum exhibition at the American Visionary Art Museum (Baltimore, 2016–2017), with over 20 works added to their permanent collection.

Featured on a United Nations postage stamp in 2015, recognized globally for his contributions as an artist with a disability.

International exhibitions in Australia, France, Spain, and Slovenia, with over 17,000 original paintings sold to collectors worldwide.

Solo exhibition ‘Life and Limb’ at Old Dominion University in 2021, shown alongside original works by Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Dana Ellyn is a Washington, DC-based painter celebrated for her provocative, narrative-driven artworks that challenge societal norms, political systems, and cultural taboos with fearless honesty. Living and working in the heart of DC, Ellyn creates from a deeply personal and intellectual space, blending sharp satire with emotional depth. Her paintings—often focused on themes like animal rights, religion, politics, and feminism—have been exhibited internationally and featured in museums, universities, and media worldwide. With a background in art history and a passion for truth-telling through visual storytelling, Ellyn paints nearly every day from her home studio. Her work invites viewers to think critically, laugh uncomfortably, and reflect deeply, making her a vital voice in the DC art scene and beyond.  Highlights:

Exhibited at top DC institutions, including the Katzen Arts Center at American University and a multitude of independent art galleries.




International shows in France, Australia, Spain, and the UK, with collectors across North America, Europe, and Asia.




Featured in major media outlets including CNN, NPR, BBC, and The Washington Post for her fearless work addressing politics, religion, and feminism.




Co-creator of the ‘Defiled’ series with Matt Sesow, a provocative collaboration exploring identity, protest, and censorship in contemporary art.

MATT SESOW

DANA ELLYN