Hi, I’m Mr. Hidden
Matthew von Schenkel
Forethought
Recently, I wrote a short piece about my artistic process for the Greater Des Moines Economic Partnership. I’ll leave that work to stand on its own, but in writing it I recounted the earliest days of Hidden Des Moines. This thing started as a passion project (it still is). In the beginning I posted anonymously and I’ve called myself Mr. Hidden ever since. I’ve never taken time to introduce myself and fully take credit for this work. Hidden Des Moines was always meant to encourage me to put myself out there. So, here’s a little about me.
My name is Matthew.
I moved here last fall from Cedar Rapids, where I grew up. At my day job I’m a luxury retail sales manager. I worked at Iowa-based Von Maur for a number of years and I’m currently working for Coach, the legendary American House of Leather. I love it. My team is amazing. Working in luxury retail has taught me to take great joy in creating experiences for people and for curating little details to invoke emotion. I think that definitely has influenced how I share HDSM with others.
I’ve developed my photographer’s eye since I was about 6 years old. My first camera came from Burger King. My mom worked in photojournalism and videography so I can remember her telling me that a photographer’s job was to show someone something as they've not seen it before. I never forgot that. I was always drawn to landscapes, nature, and architecture but I went to college for fashion merchandising where I obtained a lot of great experience with magazine-style portraiture. I learned to work in (and lead) a team. In this environment an image takes a photographer, a stylist, a model, a business sponsor, and the list goes on. Still though, I think of creating and editing an image as a means of literally showing you my point of view. Even if I’m manipulating or doctoring the image to have a certain feel- that process is about better communicating what the image makes me feel or what I want it to feel like.
I’m a red head, but don’t call me a ginger. You can spot me in a crowd. You can introduce yourself to me if you see me around town. I am an extrovert by nature… but I enjoy my own company too. I can be reclusive, but it’s not because I don’t like people. I wouldn’t have a career in retail if I didn’t!
Des Moines has welcomed me with open arms. I feel really at home here, so thank you!
The Future of HDSM
I don’t intend to suddenly insert my face into Hidden Des Moines on a regular basis. I am still Mr. Hidden. I want you to be able to place yourself in the work and see what I’m seeing. That being said, on more than one occasion I have had someone make a connection with me and I’ve been hesitant to follow up or meet new people. It’s hard to live in a new city, even one you love. I want to get out and meet more people and experience more things. If that’s going to happen, it’s best I introduce myself.
Want to collaborate, got ideas for the Hidden Des Moines blog, or think I need to see some place? DM me on instagram or use my contact page.