Welcome to MC17
After two decades honing my craft, I've learned to embrace and revel in the creative process. Though it took time, I've discovered that when you trust it, incredible, unexpected things unfold in the form of ideas and opportunities.
These breakthroughs don't manifest on their own; when they arrive, it's your job to show up and consistently put in the work. This is how you create your own luck—through dedication and continuous effort.
This realization has made me mindful of three guiding principles: process, patience, and gratitude.
Being grateful for what unfolds allows you to stay connected to this inexhaustible creative state, but sometimes we don't always see it. That's where patience comes in. Whether you call it flow or inspiration, find your formula and work it. And then stay loyal to the process.
With that, I welcome you to MC17 and invite you on a visual journey! I hope you see something that sparks.
Sincerely,
Welcome to MC17, my collection of ideas and life's work featuring collaborations with top clients, artists, and musicians from around the world. From Art Basel to Rolling Stone, The Whitney Museum of American Art to Waterford Crystal, Hermes of Paris to Target, Bloomingdales to Giorgio Armani, and Bruce Springsteen, the work showcased spans over two decades—from the moment I bought my first camera with high school graduation money to what I created just last week.
With a career spanning over two decades, Matthew embarked on his professional journey at Popular Photography Magazine as a Digital Workshop Producer. Since then, he has evolved into a seasoned photographer.
Matthew's lens has documented a diverse array of events, from the glamour of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show to the iconic Waterford Crystal New Year's Eve Ball Drop. His portfolio extends globally, including documenting Art Basel in Switzerland and capturing the essence of Bruce Springsteen in Rome, Italy.
His dedication led him to document the entire process – from demolition to ribbon-cutting – of LaGuardia Airport's new Terminal B. Since 2007, Matthew has also been the official photographer for The Whitney Museum of American Art.
Among his esteemed clientele are Luxe Magazine, Architectural Digest, Interior Design Magazine, Vogue, New York Design Center, The New York School of Interior Design, Supima, Estee Lauder, The Metropolitan Opera, Mont Blanc, The Brooklyn Museum, and Sephora.
Matthew's commitment to trusting the creative process is evident in his work. With an open mind, patience, and gratitude for every opportunity that unfolds, he continues to capture the essence of moments with precision and artistry.
BE THE BOLT
Staying open to possibility and trusting the process...
I'll be the first to admit that I like results, but something shifted in me during the spring of 2023 when I began exploring the idea of what would happen if I simply did things intentionally for the sake of doing things without worrying about results.
The difference for me was doing things intentionally, staying open to possibilities and remaining present to what showed up. What showed up for me was beyond anything creatively I set-out to do and aligned with deep desires that I wasn't fully aware of or imagined possible.
This practice with process collimated with a mountain-top opportunity to photograph Bruce Springsteen in Rome at Circus Maximus on my birthday, followed by the decision to get engaged and start a family. I was on the way to creating a life that I didn't think possible and for the first time in awhile, many areas of my life felt connected and inspired.
Since then, I still remain dedicated to holding the line during the creative process and believe that if I do, amazing results will happen in the moment that lead to the next. This understanding has taken the pressure off of trying to get somewhere because I am present to where I am at.
For me, it's literally taking one step at a time and acknowledging that the only way to get to where you hope for is to be present to where you are at.
I credit the development of this philosophy to when I walked the Camino de Santiago, a 500 mile pilgrimage throughout Spain. The journey awoke in me the living metaphor of taking one-step at a time, being open and being intentional with my words and actions. Honestly, I don't always stay in this place but when I do, magic seems to continuously show up.
It is still a process but the process before and after the opportunity to photograph Bruce Springsteen in Rome solidified my belief in trusting the process, being bold and being the bolt.
Best wishes,
MC
The genesis of MC17 originated from a home renovation project undertaken during the pandemic. The platform evolved from a digital space initially intended to document construction ideas as they materialized into the physical realm and into a collection of life's work by Matthew Carasella.
As the abstract became real, the concept became clear – MC17 would become the "Creative Houze" where ideas could flow, be hashed out and exist both virtually and physically.
MC17 is derived from Matthew's initials and the numeral 17, because the home studio's address is 17th Bay. By stacking the numbers 1 and 7, a lightning bolt emerged – a symbol of creative energy that proves 1+1 can actually equal 3.
“Record Store Graffiti : A Portrait of Bleecker Bob’s” captured the essence of a place that brought people together to share ideas, discover new ones, play music and form bands — all before the store would be gone forever.
Record stores like Bob’s weren’t about shopping. They were about searching for objects, and connecting us to feelings that, oftentimes, feel like only our own, but that are shared by others. The photography series explores this sentiment by preserving character development drawn on every 45s record case, worn into the floorboards, and covering every inch of the place with memorabilia.
APPAREL
BE THE BOLT
"Be The Bolt" is more than a phrase; it's an invitation to align with the inspiring forces that resonate within you. Being the bolt means to stay connected to your creative process and to identify whatever ignites your passion.
Introducing our style line designed for parents who love music, the great outdoors, the beach, and an active lifestyle! Shop our collection.
PRODUCTION BLACK
Collection
SURF ROC
Collection
BACK TO THE GARDEN
Collection
GRAYSCALE
Collection
Elevate your little one's style with our adorable baby onesies – Introducing "New Kid In The Crib," our exclusive onesie product line inspired by concert photo passes, printed on authentic satin cloth used at industry concerts and designed for the tiniest trendsetters in your life. Make every moment a photo-worthy memory!
Dive into the world of iconic surf culture and celebrate the completion of 17th Bay's stunning renovation with a limited-edition t-shirt designed by the legendary illustrator, Steve Nazar!
Renowned as the original artist and creator of the timeless T&C Surf Designs characters Thrilla Gorilla, Joe Cool, and Da'Boys, Steve Nazar brings unparalleled creativity to this exclusive piece. With a legacy deeply rooted in surf, skate, and snowboard industries, Steve continues to captivate audiences with his distinctive character designs and artwork.
Owning this t-shirt isn't just about commemorating a renovation; it's about wearing a piece of art crafted by a true master. Steve Nazar's original hand-drawn and painted artworks, created in marker, watercolor, and acrylics on bristol board, stretched canvas, surfboards, and skateboard decks, exemplify his commitment to timeless creativity.
Be a part of the narrative, wear a piece of surf culture history, and embrace the spirit of 17th Bay's transformation with this exclusive Steve Nazar-designed t-shirt. Limited in quantity, boundless in style – secure yours now and make a statement that transcends both fashion and art! 🌊👕 #SteveNazarArt #17thBayRenovation #LimitedEditionTee #WearableArtistry 🎨🏄♂️
Ready to tune in? Check out our specially curated 17th Bay Radio playlist that we started creating during the renovation.
Hit play, and let the music transport you to the heart of 17th Bay's creative spirit.
Book Your Stay At 17th Bay
We're thrilled to invite you to Book a stay at our Beach Bungalow, a seaside haven with two private floors connected by an indoor lockable staircase. Each floor boasts a full kitchen, a rejuvenating full bath, private decks perfect for soaking in the sunsets, and direct beach access just steps away.
Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or a vibrant beach getaway, 17th Bay is your perfect destination. Picture yourself waking up to the sound of waves, sipping coffee on your private deck, and strolling onto the sandy shores just beyond your door.
Don't miss out on the chance to create lasting memories at 17th Bay. Book your stay now, and let the waves of relaxation wash over you. Your coastal escape awaits!