Party's approach to painting houses is deeply influenced by his background in street art and mural painting, which can be seen in his use of bold colors and simplified shapes. His works often feature houses in dreamlike landscapes, where the buildings seem to float or blend into their surroundings. This creates a sense of otherworldliness, making the viewer question the reality of the scenes depicted. The use of pastels enhances this effect, giving the paintings a soft, ethereal quality that contrasts with the solid forms of the houses.
In his 2022 exhibition "Red Forest" at Hauser & Wirth in Hong Kong, Party included several landscapes and architectural elements that highlight his unique approach. The exhibition featured 13 new pastel landscapes and portraits that explored the theme of nature's complex relationship with humanity. Among these works, his depictions of houses stood out for their ability to evoke both tranquility and unease, suggesting a deeper narrative within each scene (Hauser & Wirth).
Party's paintings of houses often draw inspiration from art history, particularly the works of Swiss painters like Ferdinand Hodler and Felix Vallotton. These influences are evident in his careful composition and use of color, which echo the serene yet uncanny atmosphere of Hodler's landscapes and Vallotton's interiors. By blending these historical references with his contemporary style, Party creates paintings that are at once familiar and novel, inviting viewers to explore the layers of meaning within each piece (Christie's) (Hauser & Wirth).
Nicolas Party's paintings of houses are a testament to his ability to transform ordinary subjects into extraordinary works of art. Through his masterful use of pastels and his innovative compositions, Party continues to push the boundaries of representational painting, creating works that are both visually stunning and thought-provoking (Cultured Magazine) (Ocula) .