Welcome to 31 days in july

The “31 Days in July” project was conceived and launched in July 2003 by Washington, DC artists Matt Sesow and Dana Ellyn.  Inspired by the March 20, 2003 invasion of Iraq by the United States, Sesow and Ellyn wanted to immerse themselves in a project that would not only emphasize their dedication to painting but also help entice them to document the historical events taking place within their lifespan.  They decided to commemorate each month of July, by creating paintings about the news of the day.  The 31 paintings are created and completed in Washington, DC.

The project was meticulously documented, including stop-motion videos that captured the evolution of each painting from start to finish. This documentation provided insight into the artists’ creative processes, revealing the challenges and triumphs they faced daily. The transparency and accessibility of their process engaged a global audience, creating a sense of anticipation and involvement among their followers. The daily updates not only demystified the act of creation but also fostered a deeper connection between the artists and their audience.

During the first seven years of the project, Sesow and Ellyn limited themselves to using the front page print edition of the Washington Post as their guide.  Beginning in 2011, the artists decided that the print edition of the Washington Post no longer adequately covers the important news in a timely fashion and oftentimes diverts reader focus to trivial fluff.  The artists now scour a multitude of references including domestic and  international sources ( such as Democracy Now, Al Jazeera, RT, and the Guardian ).  Emphasis being on “historical importance” and the political influence enacted by Washington, DC on world events.   They will look to what was, and what wasn’t covered by mainstream media, to provide inspiration. 

Over the decade, the “31 Days in July” project became a significant milestone in both artists’ careers. It highlighted the importance of daily practice, the power of thematic exploration, and the value of artistic collaboration. Exhibitions of the completed collections attracted art enthusiasts, collectors, and critics, generating significant interest and acclaim. The project stands as a testament to Sesow and Ellyn’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of their creativity and engaging with their audience in a meaningful way.