Ep: 44 - Nicolas Holiber - Adventures in Deconstruction

What’s the difference between an artist, an engineer, an architect, and a contractor? For Nicolas Holiber, there isn’t one! Nicolas is a compelling sculptor and painter whose practice blurs the lines between the two using mediums such as acrylic paste, tar, oil paint, plaster, reclaimed wood, hardware, and even beeswax. He not only plays with the technicality of surface, but the idea of surface itself. His love for materiality and experimentation focuses on merging his tactile interests with content and narrative packed full of thought provoking ephemerality. Listen in, and let Nic's tranquil composure give you an idea of who “The Bird Guy” really is.
"Art is the only thing that makes me feel unstable; but it’s also the only thing that really makes me feel like I have a purpose; that gives me that sense of life.” -Nicolas Holiber
Show Notes:
1:30 - Artist to look out for: Matthew Monahan, Mark Rothko, Marisol Escobar, David Altmejd, Thomas Houseago, Huma Bhabha
16:23 - Painting is an artifice
20:55 - Nicolas’ work
24:30 - Birds on Broadway
29:27 - Difference between an artist, an architect and a contractor.
40:27 - Hooded Merganser
43:45 - Quality
51:49 - Double crested Cormorant
53:30 - New York City Audubon
58:50 - Alice Waters interview
1:04:06 - BREAK
1:05 - Nico Handmade Stretchers - Use the promo code GRIND to receive 10% off the entire order
1:06 - Buzzsprout Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout and get a $20 Amazon gift card after you sign up for a paid plan. Use this link
1:10:00 - Painting from a sculptor’s point of view
1:24:45 - Failing to win
1:28:29 - Henry Darger
1:32:50 - Paralegal to artist
1:51:44 - Huma Bhabha
1:53:03 - Thomas Houseago
1:54:03 - Glitter and Doom exhibition
Bonus Questions
1:55:43 - Is Ultramarineblue cool or warm?
1:57:27 - What makes a great painting?
2:04:45 - Messages from our listeners
Nicola's Current/Upcoming shows:
“Keep for Old Memoirs” at Young Space. Curated by Kate Mothes (founder Young Space) and Celine Mo (VICTORI+MO Gallery).
21 May - 7 June, 2020
“Drawn Together” at Unit London. 4 June - 12 July, 2020