Boston-based artist Nick Ward, who's piece 'Suburban Dream' was a part of our April Back to Back Exhibition, recently took the time to chat with us about his painting style and what motivates him!
What do you like to paint? I like to paint people -- because I like people. I love to study people in their daily routines.
When did you start painting? Not that long ago actually. I've been a professional artist for about 5 years now.
On average how long does it take for you to complete a large composition? Does the time vary depending on the size of the painting? It takes me months to complete a single piece. I normally work with larger paintings -- around 4' x 5' each or larger. With really large works I use small brushes, which takes longer, but gives me the detail I am looking for. Small pieces, however, if I really focus I can finish within a week.
Why do you use a small brush on large scale paintings? Small brushes enable me to pay close attention to the small details in the human body. In reality, people aren't perfectly smooth -- everyone's body has various textures and skin tone variations. The small brush allows for a more realistic depiction. Each brushstroke produces a new breadth of color and texture.
What type of environment do you like to work in? I always work with music. Depending on what music is playing effects how the painting goes. Certain songs motivate the scene. If you want something refined, put something mellow on. I always paint in the studio, isolated from distractions and prying eyes.
What is your favorite piece that you've ever painted? 'Mirrors Eye View' is my favorite painting, it was recently used on the cover of Dig Boston magazine.
What is your favorite piece of art? Edvard Munch 'The Kiss'.
What is your favorite Greater Boston area museum? The deCordova Museum in Lincoln, MA.
What do you want your viewer to experience when they see your work? I want the viewer to experience the classic "body tingle" -- a full body wave of emotion. I want the everyday person to walk up to the work, see it, and understand the message without having to be a trained art major. I want my art to be simple enough -- to be accessible to the general public, yet stimulating for art intellectuals.
Check out more of Nick's work on his website! We're anxiously awaiting a few new small pieces from Nick that should arrive this summer -- we'll share them as soon as they're here.