Nicolas Party's still lifes are a significant aspect of his artistic repertoire, showcasing his unique approach to traditional subjects with a contemporary twist. His still lifes are characterized by the use of soft pastels, which allow him to achieve rich, vibrant colors and a textured finish that brings a sculptural quality to the depicted objects. This medium, historically associated with 18th-century Rococo portraiture, is used by Party to re-energize the genre with a modern sensibility.

Party's still lifes often feature everyday objects such as fruits, vases, and flowers, depicted in surreal and abstract forms. These objects are meticulously arranged and shaded to create a sense of depth and volume, making them appear almost three-dimensional. His compositions are known for their bold color palettes and clean, simplified shapes, which draw comparisons to the works of artists like Giorgio Morandi and Paul Cézanne. However, Party infuses his still lifes with a whimsical and otherworldly quality, reminiscent of Surrealism, that makes his work stand out in the contemporary art scene (Christie's) (Christie's) (Hauser & Wirth).

A notable example of his work is "Still Life" from 2015, a large-scale pastel on linen that exemplifies his mastery of color and form. In this piece, Party arranges organic shapes against a backdrop of muted tones, creating a harmonious yet dynamic composition. The tactile quality of the pastel medium enhances the sensory experience of the viewer, making the objects seem almost tangible. Party's ability to transform simple still lifes into vivid, almost living scenes is a testament to his skill and innovative approach to traditional genres (Christie's) (Sothebys.com).

Party's still lifes are not just visual representations but also philosophical explorations of the nature of objects and their place in the continuum of art history. He often starts his compositions from memory, weaving in historical echoes from centuries-old vanitas traditions to the bright, crisp visions of Henri Matisse. This approach allows him to create works that are deeply rooted in art history while being entirely original and contemporary in execution (Christie's) (Sothebys.com).

Nicolas Party's still lifes are a celebration of color, form, and the enduring power of traditional subjects in contemporary art. Through his use of pastels and his imaginative compositions, Party continues to push the boundaries of what still life can be, making it relevant and exciting for today's audience (Christie's) (Hauser & Wirth).