“I like to create art that has an immediate impact and a residual mental tickle. I often try to achieve this with a sense of contradiction in subject matter or the addition of words”
John Nieman – Star Of The Week.
“The Big Apple” Watermelon by John Nieman.
WAS THERE A PIVOTAL MOMENT WHEN YOU DECIDED TO FOLLOW YOUR PATH AS AN ARTIST?
In early middle age, I decided to pivot from the non-stop rush of the advertising business to follow my early loves of art and writing. I have been doing it full-time now for decades.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE YOUR WORK FOR US?
I favor watercolor and pastel, and realistic art. I think of the subject matter first and aim for an engaging way to present it.
“Magic Johnson” by John Nieman.
WHAT DOES YOUR WORK AIM TO SAY?
If you open your eyes, most things around us can conjure a more profound thought, meaning, and impression, even everyday objects.
HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR WORK FITS WITHIN SOCIETY IN OUR PRESENT TIME?
For me, present times are a blur, a barrage of images and arguments. A deeper dive into any subject matter is a welcomed relief.
WHEN LOOKING BACK, WHAT ARTWORKS COME TO MIND THAT MOST RELATE TO YOUR LIFE STORY?
My life story has always been a combination of writing and art, even when I was a creative director of advertising and an actor/director. These influences drive my artwork.
“An Apple A Day” Watercolor by John Nieman.
WHO ARE YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCES?
Edward Hopper is my biggest influence. I find his realistic art beautiful, and I feel it tells a hidden story.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?
I try my best to start with an idea. I often create a list of 5-10 pieces I will create next. Then I strive for some visual that will hopefully grab someone’s attention.
“If the Shoe Fits” by John Nieman.
WHAT VISUAL REFERENCES DO YOU DRAW UPON IN YOUR WORK?
I will often peruse aisles of grocery stores and department stores for inspiration. Obviously, dreamy walks inspire. But, I also feel inspired by movies, new and classic.
ANY UPCOMING PROJECTS?
Yes. I am working more and more on installations and 3D art. I like the idea of creating work around a theme, like a campaign, as I used to say in advertising.
Lately, I have been working on zig-zag portraits created on accordion pleats. Example: from the left, it can look like Lucille Ball; from the right, it’s Desi. Straight on, it’s a strange combination.
