Matthew Alvarado is a musician, puppeteer, rap artist, playwright, content creator, activist and cannabis advocate based in the DC/Beltway area (whew!)
Aside from complete world domination, we asked Matthew what else he’s got going on, as well as his love of the flower and the music that sparks joy for him.
How would you describe yourself: A cannabis consumer who is an artist, or an artist who is a cannabis consumer?
I’m an artist first. Cannabis has been know to inspire creativity, but I think it can be a hindrance. I can live without cannabis, but not without art.
How would you describe the cannabis scene in your community?
Cannabis was legalized for growth and possession in 2019. It isn’t legal for sale yet. Myself and many others have turned to home growth. The grower community shares knowledge, inspiration, tech tips, and personal experiences. After harvests, we share cannabis and experiment with edibles. What I can grow far exceeds what I could afford at a dispensary. I haven’t purchased weed in a very long time.
What kind of collaborative partners would you like to attract?
Food is a great opportunity to highlight the range of medicinal and recreational uses of cannabis. Cooking shows are entertaining to watch and learn from. It would be amazing to collaborate on a culinary cannabis experience that teaches, inspires, and moves you with original music and/or performances. It is high time to redefine what we keep in mind as the canned cannabis user.
Have you tried cooking with cannabis?
Yes! So much fun, but this is where dosing expertise becomes important, because you CAN overdo it with edibles and or not a fun ride. My everyday use comes from home-made gummies. I can infuse sugars and fats for cooking. Butter and oil are commonly used in cannabis cooking, but I also love to infuse simple syrups. I can combine a variety of accentuating flavours that can then be added to drinks and cocktails.
Describe your ideal cannabis community.
Cannabis is in your community whether you like it or not. I want to live in a community that supports each other through action, positive affirmation, and a growth mindset. There is a stigma that must be broken. I’m a productive, highly skilled, motivated, and intelligent member of society, and I enjoy cannabis. What’s the big deal?
What role does cannabis play in your daily life?
I’m constantly learning about the growth phases of a cannabis plant and how to provide the best conditions for my plants to thrive. I get to play with strains and terpenes, and experiment with flavour combinations. It’s tons of fun. I have a variety of ways to consume it based on my mood or health, and I like that freedom.
Do you have a standout memory of your first interaction with cannabis and music?
Cannabis and tv/movies scores are a winning combination for me. Get super baked and vibe to the original sound track of Cowboy Bebop.
What’s a song that has you reaching for the repeat button?
“Sicilian Defense” Rok Nardin. It really builds.
For those of you interested in learning more about Matthew and his creative endeavours, you can check him out at Poeticon Music.
