Nicolas Party's approach to painting singular trees, as part of his broader exploration of natural themes, showcases his unique blend of classical influences and contemporary sensibility. In his exhibition "Cretaceous" at The Modern Institute in Glasgow, Party displayed a range of subjects from sublime landscapes to more intimate compositions, using both large pastels and oil-on-copper paintings. This body of work, including representations of singular, archetypal vistas and the elemental force of nature, reflects Party's ongoing dialogue with the concept of the sublime, merging the internal, emotional aspects with the external forms of nature. His landscapes, devoid of human and animal presence, invoke a mystical quality, drawing on the tradition of Romanticism and the atmospheric elements reminiscent of Georgia O’Keeffe’s expansive cloud and sky paintings (The Modern Institute).
The "Red Forest" pieces within the same exhibition serve as a metaphor for climate disaster, illustrating the creative and destructive forces of nature. Through these works, Party delves into apocalyptic themes, a perennial source of human anxiety, by placing such thinking within the tradition of art history. This exploration highlights the artist's engagement with the environment across time and underscores the evolving human relationship with nature (The Modern Institute).
Party's exploration into art began with his experiences in graffiti, which have influenced his approach to creating large-scale murals and installations. His transition from the ephemeral nature of graffiti to more enduring forms of visual art has not diminished his interest in the act of creation as a means to challenge and engage with space. This evolution of his work from public graffiti to highly sought-after paintings and installations reflects his journey through the art world, maintaining a playful yet profound engagement with traditional art forms through a contemporary lens (Phaidon) (Artsy).
Party's work, whether focusing on singular trees or more abstract representations of nature, continues to captivate and challenge viewers, drawing on a rich tapestry of art historical references while injecting a fresh, contemporary perspective. His use of vibrant pastels and meticulous compositions reveal a deep appreciation for the natural world, art history, and the potential of paint to transform perception (Artsy).
