Interview

Jan 30

Honey Nigam

Honey Nigam is a New York-based mixed media artist whose paintings explore the intersection between minimalism and human emotions. Originally from India, Nigam holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the International College for Girls, Jaipur, and is certified as a Graduate Gemologist by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In her practice, Nigam creates works that seamlessly blend her passion for and knowledge of gemstones with her artistic vision, producing vivid yet serene paintings that delve into the profound simplicity of the human spirit, minimalist art that incorporates precious stone dust, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, which add an extra layer of depth and luxury to the overall aesthetic, A solo exhibition of new works by Nigam will open this Spring during New York Art Week at the Superfine Art Fair.

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“I hold a BFA degree from the International College for Girls, Jaipur, and I am certified as a Graduate Gemologist by the Gemological Institute of America, New York. My artistic journey began when I was just a kid. I became fascinated with art at a young age, around 5-6 years old, when I'd spend my time coloring and sketching. As I explored art, I delighted in experimenting with colors and patterns, creating textures, and observing light reflections, sparking curiosity about the diverse ways art can be perceived and interpreted. Those early moments ignited a lifelong love for art!”

What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?

“LIME is the core theme for my art. It's the foundation I follow for all my artwork, with emotions evolving behind each piece. LIME, ‘Life in Minimalist Emotion,’ is a collection of paintings that distill the essence of human emotion into simple, yet powerful, minimalist compositions. Each piece in the LIME series is a meditation on the beauty of simplicity and the depth of human emotion, inviting viewers to slow down, reflect, and connect with their own emotional landscapes. It does not comment on any social or political issues!”

Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?

“By starting with a clear idea or concept, I create a foundation for my artwork. Then, by allowing myself the freedom to experiment and make changes, I open myself up to new possibilities and unexpected discoveries. This approach enables me to stay flexible, adapt to new ideas, and bring unique perspective to the creative process. It's a great way to nurture my inspiration and bring my artistic vision to life!”

“LIME, ‘Life in Minimalist Emotion,’ is a collection of paintings that distill the essence of human emotion into simple, yet powerful, minimalist compositions.”

Are there any art world trends you are following?

“Hypersentimentalism is a new trend in art. It focuses on emotions and personal experiences. Artists create intimate and emotional works. These works often come from the artist's own life. The goal is to connect with others on an emotional level. It emphasizes the importance of human connection in art.”

What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?

“My artistic process follows these steps:
Step 1: Color Exploration - I begin by mixing diverse hues of acrylic paint to achieve a rich, vibrant palette.
Step 2: Resin Application - Add layers of resin carefully, adding depth and luminosity to the artwork.
Step 3: Stone Dust Inlay - stone dust is meticulously inlaid, infusing the painting with drama and texture.
The Result: My unique fusion of colors, resin, and stone dust yields breathtaking effects, inviting viewers to explore the intricate layers of my art.”

What does your art mean to you?

“‘My art is a reflection of my inner world – a pursuit of simplicity, clarity, and essence. Through clean lines, subtle colors, and thoughtful composition, I strive to create a sense of calm, serenity, and focus. Each piece is a meditation on the beauty of restraint, inviting the viewer to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with the present moment. By stripping away the non-essential, I aim to reveal the hidden patterns, textures, and emotions that underlie our human experience. My art is a personal journey of self-discovery, a quest to distill the complexities of life into their most fundamental truths. It's an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the world around us.”

What’s your favourite artwork and why?

“A Gentle Weave. This artwork symbolizes a mosaic of everyday moments, a subtle patchwork of life's simple pleasures, delicate balance of life's quiet joys and challenges. This work describes how these moments are woven together to create a rich and meaningful whole.”