Nigel Sense

Nigel Sense is an Australian artist born in Wollongong, currently residing in Penang.

Sense embraces a nomadic ethos, drawing inspiration from American abstract expressionists and 1960s pop artists. His distinctive style, shaped by a passion for travel, has graced solo and group exhibitions in Australia and worldwide, including prestigious events such as the Colombo Art Biennales and Sydney Contemporary (2022). Notably, he was a Salon De Refuses finalist in 2020, 2021, and 2022, and garnered attention from Porsche in 2021 for a bespoke Taycan livery.

In 2022, the National Centre of Contemporary Art (NCCA) in Darwin hosted his inaugural institutional solo show. Sense’s neo-expressionist and social expressionist works, influenced by his suburban upbringing, employ pop art techniques for social commentary and exploration of the human condition. His instinctive process, capturing the immediacy of daily life, engages viewers with vibrant colors and a playful spirit.

Artist Statement:

Step into the world of my artistic journey as an Australian navigating the cultural landscape of Penang. This body of work, set against the backdrop of a local kopitiam in Pulau Tikus, invites you to witness the transformation of everyday experiences into vibrant canvases that echo the pulse of urban life. From decorative wall tiles to the aroma of strong black coffee, these canvases unfold as personal diaries, capturing overheard conversations, my imperfect attempts at speaking Malay, and the bustling atmosphere of the breakfast crowd. Each stroke is a celebration of the eclectic tapestry that defines Penang.

Take a look at Sense’s CV.