The Artist
Nicholas Simmons paints in watermedia on a scale that rivals oil painting. The subject matter is a dazzling mix of figures juxtaposed with printed lettering, graffiti, Japanese block prints, neon lights, reflections, and lavish corners of nature. The effect can be disorienting, as though a camera has taken a picture by accident, revealing an image that is both exciting and mysterious. The paint itself swirls, floods, drips, and spatters, driven on by the general excitement of the imagery and giving the work a sense that it was done in a rush in a matter of minutes. John Parks, Watercolor , Winter 2009
Mr. Simmons’ paintings have been featured in a variety of publications, and on Maryland Public Television. In 2008 his DVD Innovative Watermedia was released by Creative Catalyst Productions. He is sponsored by Da Vinci Paint and Escoda Artist Brushes. Awards include top prize at the 2007 National Watercolor Society, consecutive gold medals at the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society, 2008-2009, and the gold medal at the Texas Watercolor Society in 2010.
The artist exhibits internationally with major watermedia stars, and was the only judge representing the Americas at the Shanghai Zhujiajiao International Watercolour Biennial Exhibition in 2010, the world‘s largest watercolor exhibition. He will return to China to judge the biennial again in 2012, among other major exhibitions. Nicholas is one of six painters in the newly-formed North American Watercolor Artists group, which represents the United States in various international exhibitions.
He is sought after as a workshop instructor, lecturer, and judge, known for his fresh, unorthodox, and often irreverent approach.
Please see the Purchase page, or contact the artist for information about available paintings and prints.
Workshop information and schedule linked from the News page.
Other information and events can be seen on Nicholas Simmons' blog.