What’s the difference between an artist, an engineer, an architect, and a contractor? For Nicolas Holiber, there isn’t one! Nicolas is a compelling sculptor and painter whose practice blurs the lines between the two using mediums such as acrylic paste, tar, oil paint, plaster, reclaimed wood, hardware, and even beeswax. He not only plays with the technicality of surface, but the idea of surface itself. His love for materiality and experimentation focuses on merging his tactile interests with content and narrative packed full of thought provoking ephemerality. Listen in, and let Nic's tranquil composure give you an idea of who “The Bird Guy” really is."Art is the only thing that makes me feel unstable; but it’s also the only thing that really makes me feel like I have a purpose; that gives me that sense of life.” -Nicolas HoliberShow Notes:1:30 - Artist to look out for: Matthew Monahan, Mark Rothko, Marisol Escobar, David Altmejd, Thomas Houseago, Huma Bhabha16:23 - Painting is an artifice20:55 - Nicolas’ work24:30 - Birds on Broadway 29:27 - Difference between an artist, an architect and a contractor.40:27 - Hooded Merganser43:45 - Quality 51:49 - Double crested Cormorant53:30 - New York City Audubon58:50 - Alice Waters interview1:04:06 - BREAK1:05 - Nico Handmade Stretchers - Use the promo code GRIND to receive 10% off the entire order1:06 - Buzzsprout Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout and get a $20 Amazon gift card after you sign up for a paid plan. Use this link1:10:00 - Painting from a sculptor’s point of view 1:24:45 - Failing to win1:28:29 - Henry Darger 1:32:50 - Paralegal to artist1:51:44 - Huma Bhabha  1:53:03 - Thomas Houseago1:54:03 - Glitter and Doom exhibitionBonus Questions1:55:43 - Is Ultramarineblue cool or warm? 1:57:27 - What makes a great painting?2:04:45 - Messages from our listenersNicola's Current/Upcoming shows:“Keep for Old Memoirs” at Young Space. Curated by Kate Mothes (founder Young Space) and Celine Mo (VICTORI+MO Gallery). 21 May - 7 June, 2020 “Drawn Together” at Unit London. 4 June - 12 July, 2020Support the show (https://paypal.me/artgrindpodcast?locale.x=en_US)