Meet Matthew Reid | Cartoonist & Hip Hop Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Matthew Reid and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matthew, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I would attribute that to projecting my humbleness and exhibiting the traits of the people who’ve guided me to the success I’m currently achieving. I’m extremely proud of where I come from, and more importantly, the person that I currently am. It took a while to accept the path that was laid out for me. In seeking the proper direction for that route, I was aided by people who believed in my vision, and more importantly had a fondness towards me.

I intertwine these values into my brand, because I feel the public appreciates humility from particular platforms. It doesn’t have to be grandiose. It could simply be a business offering services for customers. Bypassing the esteem of the establishment, one want’s to feel there’s a sense of geniality and comprehension for the individual occurring during transactions, interactions, and projections.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Confidence. That would be the most grand answer to any question pertaining, how I got to where I am, or what made me maintain my determination, when opportunities to quit presented themselves. I’ve always had a liking to making music, because when all of the variables are removed, the joy is still there. I’ve mentioned in articles, that creating art is more a necessity rather than a hobby. And with the need to create, the pursuit of having others see the creativeness has come with time. Finding the right audience, knowing what my audience likes or dislikes. And more importantly, improving my skills as an artist. As a rapper, this is like riding a bike and something I’ve pursued since the age of 15. As a sketch artist, the confidence to expose my art has come from self confidence and a liking for myself. I enjoy it, and that has much value in what i choose to share.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m very low key and don’t ask for much which is why I love and enjoy Houston. Its not too much in your face, but rather out there for you to determine the wave of fun you’re seeking. I enjoy spots like Eado St. near PNC Stadium and Minute Maid Park. I used to do shows at Warehouse Live in the mid 2010’s. Before the pandemic resulted in business closures, a place like Lucky’s was a great hangout. Now in it’s current state, it’s even more developed. I like places such as Little Woodrow’s, Truck Yard, Pitch 25, The Secret Group, etc. I also like to be active. I skateboard so the Gulfton Skatepark on Chimney Rock RD is a frequent destination. I live in Montrose, so the Midtown Park on Travis is a common place for me as well. Outside of these, I’m most likely found at any of the sporting venues as I go to many Rockets, Texans, Astros, games. Finally, my place of peace is Discovery Green. Being in the heart of downtown, it encompasses the best landscape, views, and comforts in the city. I’ve had dates there, enjoyed Super Bowl festivities there, and many afternoon solo lunch eatings.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Most Certainly. A few team members
Michael Bhichitkul- @michael_whaaat
Roman Brion- @romanbrion
Luis Morales -@luis__morales__
Miguel Nistal

These are a collection of individuals who assist whenever requested. There are 2 entities to mention for this section. The first is our art endeavors. The store, and brand is called CheapSketch_HTX. A store will be launching this spring, with an emphasis on showcasing pieces around the city this summer. Michael Bhichitkul, himself, is a popular artist in the area, and also a childhood friend and mentor. He assist in those explorations.

PWE is the second mention. That is the musical aspect. PWE stands for Prestige Worldwide Entertainment. It was created in 2012 by myself and Luis Morales. A fascination for the movie ‘Step Brothers’, led to an adoption of the infamous record label monikered in the film. Morales, is an early investor and manger, financing, shows, album publications, etc. As the years have passed and his role has required other voices, people like Roman Brion and Miguel Nistal have been important. Both have connections within the city to provide the resources needed for me to make my music. Roman is a videographer and photographer who films throughout the city.

Instagram: @reidsraps; @cheapsketch_htx

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7UFP4vyOzVbdX9QdkptFOQ

Image Credits
@RomanBrion