Interview
Nicholas J Scaturro
Nicholas J Scaturro is a multi-talented artist, photographer, director, painter, and digital artist who has made a name for himself in the world of creativity. With a unique perspective and a keen eye for detail, Nicholas has created a body of captivating and thought-provoking work. He has a passion for capturing big and small moments, presenting them in a way that tells a story and evokes emotions.
As a photographer, Nicholas has a keen sense of composition and an innate understanding of light and shadow, which he uses to create striking and memorable images. As a director, he brings a unique vision to his projects, creating entertaining and thought-provoking films. As a painter and digital artist, he combines traditional art techniques with cutting-edge technology to create genuinely unique works.
Nicholas has a natural eye for color and composition, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in art. With a diverse background in art, photography, film, painting, and digital art, he is a creative force to be reckoned with. Whether behind the lens of a camera, at the helm of film production, or bringing his artistic vision to life, Nicholas always delivers inspired, innovative, and impactful work.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey in the art world started when I was a boy, surrounded by artists in my family. My grandmother was a painter, her sister a sculptor, and my grandfather a tailor from Italy. My father was an entrepreneur, and although he talked about business often, he wanted us to be happy. I started with art classes at a young age, eventually attending the Brooks Institute of Photography. My friends Paul Hopkins, Keno and I would stay after hours to work on the computers when classes were over, developing new ideas involving photography, design, and 3D.
After graduation, I pursued photography and mixed media abstract concepts. I got sucked into the internet business, climbing the ladder to become a creative director. I traveled worldwide, lived in Tokyo, Hong Kong, in the jungle in the Philippines, and drove across the U.S. All of these were fantastic learning experiences. When I came back to Boston, I was involved in a traumatic motorcycle accident.
As I was recovering, I started to paint again. I meditated without any idea of what would happen, only that inspiration would come to me through universal divine power. I let it run through me, though sometimes it would go too far. During this time, I began photographing the stages of my paintings to track my progress. If I messed up, I’d use my skills in mixed media and Photoshop to salvage the painting. The process would begin again—I’d sit down with hundreds of textures I had painted, open to whatever wanted to come out of me. Then, somehow, it all came together. With the aid of some adult beverages, a closed environment, and music to guide my way, my hands and mind started to move as one—a symphony of confusion, liberation, and creation. When people ask me how I do it, I can safely say that I’m not sure. All I know is that I am not in total control all the time!”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“As an experienced artist who has spent years traveling and exploring the world, my work is deeply influenced by the diverse cultures, languages, and traditions I have encountered. From the bustling cities of Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore to the serene landscapes of Thailand and Vietnam, my travels have allowed me to gain a unique perspective on the world.
However, my last year living in a remote village in the Philippines truly inspired my art. Despite the village's lack of material wealth, the love for people, music, animals, and nature was overflowing. This contrast painted a vivid edge to my frame of reference, inspiring me to create art that explores themes of cultural identity, societal norms, and the human experience.”
Are there any art world trends are you following?
"True artistic expression should come from within, therefore I don't necessarily follow specific art trends. That being said, my art is often inspired by my experiences and observations of the world around me, including the constant changes and challenges we face as a society. I resist the temptation to follow text-prompted art or other fleeting trends, as they have little long-term value. Instead, I focus on simplicity's beauty and the insights I gain through my personal experiences and spiritual journey.
Through my art, I seek to understand the meaning of life and my role in making the world a better place. Sometimes this means creating pieces that illustrate beauty and harmony. Other times, I create intentionally provocative and challenging work meant to shake people up and awaken them to important issues. Ultimately, my goal as an artist is to create visually stunning and emotionally impactful work while staying true to my values and beliefs.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“Simply put, it is divine intervention and the golden rod of the universe flowing through me. That is how I define it, though it may sound confusing to those yet to have a spiritual experience. However, as a mixed media artist, my creative process involves planning and improvisation. I usually start with a general idea in mind, and then plan out the essential elements and materials I will need to bring it to life. Once I begin working on a piece, I may find that these materials and techniques may not work as well as I thought they would. This is where improvisation comes in—adapting my approach as I work, trying new techniques and materials, and responding to the piece as it develops. This flexibility allows me to create truly unique pieces representative of my artistic vision.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I love experimenting with different combinations of media and textures to create a unique and layered effect. In the initial approach to the paintings, I might start with acrylics or watercolor, but it gets really unorthodox as I progress because in this phase of exploration I’m usually pulling in all kinds of energy. I might grab a stick off the ground, use a rusted scrapper, or torch the painting with lighter fluid or a can of hairspray and a torch. I really never know where it’s going to go.
My materials include everything from traditional painting supplies, such as acrylics and watercolors, to more unconventional materials, like found objects and recycled materials. I also use a variety of papers, fabrics, and other textural elements to add depth and dimension to my work.
I love to combine traditional painting and drawing techniques with collage, layering, and other mixed-media approaches. I allow all these different approaches to guide and inspire my creative process. Ultimately, my goal is to create visually stunning and emotionally impactful pieces, using whatever materials and techniques best serve the artistic vision I am trying to convey.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is everything to me. It is my life force. I am so fortunate and grateful to be able to create every day. My art is much more than just a creative outlet; it expresses my deepest thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. Through my art, I can explore and make sense of the world around me and my place within it.
Creating art is a profoundly personal and spiritual experience that allows me to connect with something greater than myself. It is a way for me to tap into my intuition and innermost thoughts, and to explore the complex layers of my psyche. In addition to being a form of self-expression, my art is also a way to connect with others and share my unique perspective with the world. Through my work, I hope to inspire and challenge others, spark meaningful conversations, and raise awareness about issues that are important to me. Ultimately, my art reflects who I am and what I stand for—a celebration of life, love, and the beauty of the human experience.”
“I have always known that everyone must cut their own path and make this life what they envision it to be.
As an artist who creates for th
e time they are in, I aim to create art that inspires others to question their assumptions, challenge societal norms, and see the world through a new lens.”
What’s your favorite artwork and why?
“If I had to choose one favorite artwork, it would be Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. Its incredible use of gold leaf and ornate patterns create a stunning sense of opulence and luxury. The intricate details and sensual imagery also evoke a sense of passion and intimacy, making the painting feel incredibly alive and vibrant. Beyond its aesthetic qualities, The Kiss also speaks to me on a deeper level. It reminds me of the power of love and connection, and the importance of cherishing those we care about most.
The Kiss is a masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire viewers to this day. It is a testament to the enduring power of art to move and transform us, and a reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“One of the highlights of living in downtown L.A. was attending the Artwalk at the Brewery, an annual event that brings together artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts from across the city. From paintings and sculptures to installations and performance art, there was something for everyone. Attending the Artwalk allowed me to meet many incredible artists who eventually became my friends, including William Quigley, Edward Colver, Rufus Snoody, James Hill, Andre Milripolsky, Bruce Gray, Michael Roof, among others. These artists had unique styles and perspectives, reflected in the diverse range of artworks on display at the Artwalk.”
