Paintings by Matt Armstrong and Craig Hawkins

On view September 11 - November 8, 2026

OPENING RECEPTION: Friday, September 11th at Sojourn Midtown (1207 S. Shelby St.)

“Arising from over 25 years of exploring the supernatural, Manifest is an art exhibition that features recent works by two longtime friends and artists, Craig Hawkins and Matt Armstrong. Over the years, their friendship has been bonded by a profound desire to express their pursuit of a deeply personal faith through creating artwork. Hawkins’ work delves into a narrative thread of trees, while Armstrong’s focus turns to a visual depiction of prayer. Each piece is an opportunity to find common ground to explore, question, and imagine how the supernatural may be made manifest to each of us.”

— Matt Armstrong & Craig Hawkins

Matt Armstrong, born in a Chicago suburb in 1980, moved to Georgia with his family at the age of six. Growing up surrounded by southern culture, he found inspiration that shaped his perspective on both life and creativity. In 2003, he graduated from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in studio art. Since then, Armstrong’s work has been exhibited, published, and collected both nationally and internationally. He has also been a resident artist in Akureyri, Iceland; Berlin, Germany; and Atlanta, Georgia, where he currently lives and works. To learn more about Armstrong and his art, visit www.mattarmstrongart.com. 

Craig Hawkins, a studio artist and educator in South Georgia, centers his studio practice on drawing and painting. With an M.F.A. from the University of Georgia, he skillfully balances being a dedicated studio artist and respected professor at Valdosta State University.

Ancient Hebrew and Greek Scriptures hold a special place in his heart, shaping his creative approach. Hawkins delves into their rhythmic narrative patterns, infusing his art with symbolism and motifs that echo their wisdom. His work beautifully blends chronicles and creativity, using visual art to channel ageless insights. Hawkins states, “My work is a reflection of my experience with scripture, a result of my experience growing up in the south, a response to the inherent value of everyone, and a perceived need for beauty and community in the world.” To learn more about Hawkins and his art, visit www.craighawkinsart.com.