Q&A with Ray Matthews
October 9, 2009 by Erin Price
Filed under 2009 Fall, Q & A
Ray Matthews, 33, of Pittsburgh, has traveled all over the country but finds his inspiration from the only city he has ever considered home. The former professional ice dancer is making a name for himself as well as dressing his hometown with his unique T-shirt designs.
By Angela Disipio
Ray Matthews wears one of his original designs, a Fort Pitt Bridge T-shirt. Photo by Angela Disipio, Point Park News Service.
Ray Matthews: I was doing my laundry one day and realized that 99 percent of my shirts were T-shirts about Pittsburgh and I thought that I could do that. That’s when I thought of doing the bridges of Pittsburgh, because the city is known for all the bridges. I wanted something different than average tourism T-shirts, more designer-like, Pittsburgh pride T-shirts.
Q: Specifically where do get your inspiration for designs?
RM: I find things that are unique to Pittsburgh. The first series was the bridge series. Basically there is one design for each bridge. The first was the Fort Pitt Bridge and next will be the Liberty Bridge and then another from there. The new series I’m doing is the Rest In Peace series. I have a R.I.P Three Rivers Stadium T-shirt now and R.I.P Forbes Field and R.I.P Civic Arena will be the next to come out.
Q: In your life what are you most proud of?
That’s a hard question. I guess it would be all the traveling I’ve had the opportunity to do, and all the people I’ve met while traveling.
RM: Besides Pittsburgh, what is your favorite place?
My second favorite city after Pittsburgh is Denver. I love it there. The people are awesome, everyone is so nice and it seems so healthy. It is one of the most motivating places I’ve ever been. I also love the night life, it’s one of the best around.
Q: What is your biggest regret?
RM: Quitting skating. I didn’t complete everything I could have.
Q: What do you dream to do in your future?
RM: My ultimate dream is to have my own nightclub. I have worked in the bar industry for ten-plus years and still enjoy the work. I work now as a bartender in two different places, but I have done it all from bar-back to managing. It’s hard work, but I know I would be very successful as a nightclub owner.
Q: Do you think you will live in Pittsburgh forever?
RM: Yes.
