Matthew Thorsen has taken thousands of photographs during his lifetime, many for Seven Days during his 23 years with the paper. We recently celebrated his legendary work documenting the local arts, culture and music scene with a show called “Thorever” at Burlington City Arts.

Two years ago, Matt was diagnosed with melanoma on his toe. The cancer spread into the rest of his body, growing into malignant tumors. At the age of nearly 51, Matt has finished with radiation and experimental treatments.

I’ve known Matt since I started working at Seven Days 11 years ago. He is one of the most quirky, talented, and kind people I’ve ever met. And of course he has collected a treasure trove of photos that have been included in multiple “Stuck in Vermont” videos (including this one which featured him). I spent an afternoon with Matt at his home in Essex talking about life, art and dying.

Matt’s birthday is October 10th so send him some birthday love!

Shooting date: 9/12/18

Music:

This episode of Stuck in Vermont was made possible by

New England Federal Credit Union

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This article appears in Oct 3-9, 2018.

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Seven Days senior multimedia producer Eva Sollberger has been making her award-winning video series "Stuck in Vermont" since 2007. In 2024, she won first place from the Association of Alternative Newsmedia for her video, “Barbie Collector.” She received...

14 replies on “Stuck in Vermont: Photographer Matthew Thorsen Gets the Last Word”

  1. Oh, Eva, this piece is so heartbreakingly beautiful. I felt every moment of pain and love. Thank you for this.

  2. Thank you, Matthew and Eva, for sharing these words and images and feelings. A lovely and provocative gift. Happy (early) Birthday, thank you for giving us so many extraordinary images. May your journey to your Grandma be peaceful and your reunion sweet. <3

  4. Matthew and Eva, Thank you for opening the window to us, allowing us to partake of this journey. You bless us with your sharing. Matthew, may you know peace, and feel our love and appreciation for your gift in life of ” going there” even now.

  5. I’ve only been in Burlington for one afternoon. But, it was late this July and I stumbled on the BCA and viewed the THOREVER show. I was moved by Matthew’s work, and dazzled by it’s scope. I remember standing in the basement flipping through the book where the public was invited to write their comments. I felt uncomfortable, because I couldn’t gather my thoughts at that time in a cohesive way to write them down: At the same time I wanted to communicate my admiration for Mathew’s vision and boldness. I left without writing anything, because I didn’t want to be glib. My phone, which does things beyond my comprehension, fed me this link and video. Again, I am moved by his humanity and candor. Thank you for the video, and please pass on my empathy and appreciations to Mathew.

  6. Such a very well put together, open and honest view of what Matt (and so many others) is going through. Thank you so much for sharing. And, of course, hoping that you have a very enjoyable birthday, Matt. Wishing you as much joy as possible and plenty of peace, as well.

  7. I have known Matt since we were about 13 years old, but our paths haven’t crossed since his diagnosis. He is a wonderfully warm and unusual person. A conversation with Matt often goes in unexpected directions, and I have always loved this about him. That he’s dealing with this makes me incredibly sad. The world is a better place with him in it.

  8. Matthew, thank you for sharing your journey with us. I sent you a message on FB about a book I have that you may be interested in. Margo

  9. Thank you for this story Eva. My heart has been given the gift of your grace, Matt. Safe passage and blessings to your friends and family.

  10. Thank you Eva, and thank you Matt – for everything, and for this touching, unforgettable glimpse into your world(s). Matt, I will always think of you on our birthday. Love, Charlie

  11. Dear dear Matthew… so much gratitude for your articulation of love (Diane) and your grammas touch. I experience being touched in turn by the mystery as it moves through you. And yes, just as you say, clearly you do have something to do with the big idea of love and death. And letting go. Thank you Eva for being the bridge. Bonnie

  12. I really want to hear what he’s saying, but wonder if you could turn that background music down a little. Thank you!

  14. Oh I’m so grateful you made this. I’ve read his name for years and appreciate being able to see and honor his personal thoughts and amazing humor. Very cool. Love and light. I hope Grandma was the one.

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