Who is Joel Nicholls? He’s the quintessential creative spirit, seamlessly integrating his love for leisure and art.
While you might find him tossing a frisbee through the parks of New Zealand for fun, his true passion lies in his art studio.
There, he meticulously crafts unique masterpieces that have found their way into homes across the nation.
We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Joel, a renowned artist from east Auckland, for a brief Q&A just before he set off to create his next great work.
For those curious to see Joel’s stunning art, his creations are available for viewing and purchase at his Etsy shop, ArtistJoelNicholls.
What inspired you to become an artist Joel?
I was born with an artistic talent. Drawing was one of the only things that would keep me still as a child. I just had to have the maturity to nurture the natural talent as I got older.
What is your artistic style?
Hard to say! I still am not sure how to describe it to people because I like to do so many different things. Whatever it is, hopefully it’s recognizable.
What does your creative process look like, from concept to finished piece?
Most ideas are in my head. Some can sit there for years and I’ll change things in my mind and then one day I’ll bring them to life.
Who’s your biggest influencer or inspiration?
God, The creator, mother nature, whatever you want to call it. No one can blend a colour better than a sunset sky.
What advice would you say to 10-year-old Joel Nicholls now?
I would say “you can do it, Don’t wait for someone to validate you or see what you see, show them!”
What’s been the best day of your life so far?
I wish I had a single day that I could say was best! I don’t have children or anything like that ha ha. But probably selling my first thousand-dollar painting. That was pretty emotional.
What’s on your bucket list?
I want to be able to travel anywhere because of my art. Whether that’s from the sale of it or for exhibitions and work somewhere. That would be a dream that would make a 10-year-old me very happy!
If you could paint anywhere in east Auckland where would it be?
Hard to go past Howick even though I already have heaps of art there.
Where is your favorite place to visit in east Auckland?
Howick again! It’s where I started being an artist and it’s about people. There are lots of good people who have supported me and brought my work. It’s still a village vibe which is cool too, especially with all my murals around town.
