Visual Artist | Nigel Howlett

Sep 29, 2025
3 min read

Nigel's world is “populated by a cast of anonymous characters who typically appear as if they are carved from metal or encased within a kind of armoured skin. But despite their cool, futuristic aesthetic, their body language is highly expressive and relatable. We encounter intimate social interactions, moments of searching and contemplation, as well as powerful, more dynamic scenes. The compositions are both cinematic and minimal, employing symbolism to evoke a distinct feeling or experience without prescribing a specific meaning.

This allusive visual language is inspired by the artist’s interest in mysticism and spirituality but also appeals to our shared humanity and ability to communicate beyond the verbal. The characters are frequently placed within stark urban landscapes, where a featureless building might recede into the distance, the viewer invited to reflect on the profound stillness that envelops them. In this quietude, Howlett invites us to confront our own experiences of solitude, prompting an exploration of the delicate balance between isolation and connection in a fast-paced world.”

What’s s a normal day like for Nigel, when you’re not in your studio? Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of art?

I have a very strict studio practice which doesn’t leave too much time for anything else in the week. I get up early and run most days before I arrive at about 8:30 and get to work. I stay until about 6 and then head home to hang out with my kids. I might sound like a geek but I’m pretty obsessed with what I do so sports help to take my mind off things… I like to play table tennis, Climb or watch some football.

How would you describe your art to someone who’s never seen it before?

Relatable paintings of human like figures. Emotionally stirring, simple, with a futuristic twist.

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In what way has your environment shaped the way you paint/make art or rather your style of painting?

My studio is very modern, with exposed concrete pillars and industrial pipework. It’s very large, has great natural light, and I love being there. The space I work in has to feel right and complement my work. I also like that the area around my studio in Hackney Wick, which has a big creative community, has been constantly evolving since I first got a studio here. New buildings are always under construction. I’ve watched the neighbourhood transform since I first set up in an old factory back in 2004. The huge developments for the 2012 Olympics reshaped the area, and it has continued to change and grow ever since. I find this ongoing transformation exciting, and that energy feeds into my work.

You’ve likely been asked this before, but who are some individuals, either within or beyond the art world, whose work, philosophy, or approach resonates with you and influences your perspective?

I’ll pick an artist whose work I saw last week as it’s fresh in my mind. Conrad Shawcross makes large sculptures based on Philosophical and Scientific theories. I found his installation at ‘Hereeast' really interesting and so afterwards I did a bit of a deep dive into his practice. I like how poetic his complex contraptions are, also they look purposeful but it’s hard to define exactly what they do. There’s a beauty in the complexity of the work and I’m still trying to figure out why I like that so much.

What are your thoughts on the recent gallery closures. Name a few factors that you think contribute to these challenges, and what role can artists play in adapting to the evolving art market?

We are feeling the contraction and waves of the market. I prefer not to think about it too much and try to stay focused and make new work. I suppose the most important thing for artists is to get into a position where you can always make work no matter what state the market is in.