MAA: Can you share a bit about your background and what first drew you to art?
BN: When I was a young boy, 8 years old, living in Canfield, Ohio, someone gave me a set of graphite pencils in various densities. I used to draw and experiment using these lead pencils. I drew landscapes of the midwest and the animals around me. I started to understand that I saw things differently.
One year, I had a summer job painting houses. Much of paint was chipped away on the interior walls and I saw the image of Elvis (ha ha). I wanted to chip away more paint and create new images. Ultimately, I had to chip it all away that day, but it was fun.
I attended Columbia University where I studied architecture with a minor in fine art. While I was a student there, I was exposed to so much great art at New York's galleries and museums. I recall an exhibition of Joan Miro at the Guggenheim Museum in the mid 1980s which really impressed me, that was when I decided I really connected with painting. After college, I worked for some architecture firms and a contractor - building and renovating beautiful Manhattan properties. In 1992, I received a grant from the Peggy Guggenheim Foundation and spent a year in Venice, Italy studying at the museum and painting. While I was in Italy I also learned about furniture design, product design and lighting.
When I returned to New York, I met Alberto Frias who collaborated with me to create my furniture collection and it was wildly successful. In 2000, I sold the company and decided to become a full time painter. Within a few months I had a sold out show at a gallery in Mexico City!
MAA: How would you describe your artistic style and how has it evolved over time?
BN: In the beginning, my painting style was simple. I had the idea of painting panels in a billboard size, then smaller works which were conceptual, graphic and colorful. My interests are wide and I am constantly intrigued by new styles.
I find inspiration for my projects in the most mundane things such as all of the interesting objects that I have collected over the years.
MAA: Are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you are particularly excited about?
BN: I am moving away from multiple panels attached together and moving toward large canvases. I am thinking about the spirit of animals and what animals mean to us. For example the Mexican hairless dog, or an owl and birds, and creatures from the sea - such as an octopus. I am developing images of animals and mythical creatures, merging them with the graphic elements of my signature style. This year I am creating an exhibition, a book and fine art prints for sale.
MAA: Reflecting on your life's work, how has being an artist impacted your personal life and vice versa?
BN: It is the greatest privilege imaginable to be an artist. In countries outside the USA including Mexico, people buy art starting at a young age. Art is an integral part of their lives. I wish young Americans would think of buying art they way they do with experimenting with exotic foods, or buying the outfit that is a little bit "out there"... those are the things in life that are special and make it a little more adventurous. Think of buying art as an adventure for you and get out of your comfort zone and feel more alive!
When I sell a painting or I discover an old work of art, it is the best feeling knowing other people feel joy and inspiration from my work in their home. That is so satisfying and makes me feel proud. This is also a catalyst to drive me to make more art. I feel like I am at a great time in my art career. Recently, I have slowed down to pace my artistic process, spending more time with each work. Although I have a lifetime of projects ahead of me, I have "slowed my creative motor", to focus on each new work of art.
There is a quote I like from John Adams:
"My sons ought to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history, naval architecture, navigation, commerce and agriculture in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, statuary, tapestry, and porcelain."
For more information, see my website www.bradleynarduzzi.com
or @bradleynarduzzi on instagram or contact art@MetropolitanArtAdvisors.com
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