Mathieu Cristofor is currently a student at San Jose State University pursuing degrees in graphic design and photography, with a possible minor in advertising. He strives every day to learn new techniques in Adobe software and photography. Mathieu approaches this by meeting new students in his classes, working with the professors, absorbing insightful information and idiosyncrasies that they’re willing to share; in turn, he hopes to pass this aggregate proficiency on to other’s wanting to grow, and to inspire a younger, less privileged generation. Mathieu recently began getting involved with First Exposures, a nationally recognized photography organization that works with disadvantage children, to broaden his experience, engage with and inspire the troubled youth of today. Mathieu believes that we don’t choose the life situation we’re born into, but we do get to choose the life we want to lead. Aside from working with disadvantaged youth, Mathieu derives inspiration from traveling, listening to musical scores ranging from jazz to independent hip-hop, riding his motorcycle through the windy mountain roads of California’s wine country, interacting with his business partner Dominic “The Shoe Surgeon” Chambrone, and everyone he meets along his path in life. Mathieu’s work reflects these influences, in that it is ever evolving, being pushed and pulled into new and old directions.