Nick Williams

Nick Williams, born in England, is an artist, designer, and author currently based in Sussex. Working across diverse mediums, including watercolor, ink, and acrylics on wood panels and canvas, he is best known for his imaginative portraits inspired by historical jeanswear and Western heritage. His work reflects a deep connection to vintage denim culture and its popular cultural significance.

Williams' artistic practice is characterized by his ability to weave fashion history with contemporary art. His portraits often feature figures adorned in iconic denim pieces such as Levi’s Jacket, Lee’s Storm Rider, and Wrangler shirts, bringing to life the enduring appeal of jeanswear. Among his notable projects is the book Denim Branded, a collaborative book with his wife, Jenny, celebrating the history of jeanswear branding.

Nick Williams' work has been featured in exhibitions in London, including solo and group shows at venues such as Paul Smith and Chelsea Town Hall in London. His career has also included notable stints in New York’s downtown art scene, where his works were displayed in East Village cafés and restaurants. Through his art, Williams continues to bridge the worlds of denim, art, and pop cultural history.

Nick Williams, artist, designer, and author of Denim Branded, began his creative journey studying textile design on the south coast of England. While at art school Nick developed a passion for vintage and 1950s denim, deeply influenced by films like The Outsiders and Rumble Fish, as well as by bands such as The Clash and The Smiths. Denim and jeanswear were at the heart of pop culture during this time, sparking an obsession that would define much of his artistic and professional career. During his time at art school, Nick collaborated with notable contemporaries, including comic artist Jamie Hewlett. Together, they created a Deadline magazine cover featuring Jamie's iconic Tank Girl character. After graduating, Nick spent several years in London working with renowned retailers such as Paul Smith, Jones of Covent Garden, and Midas Kings Road. He designed window displays, branding, and point-of-sale materials, including distinctive shop bag designs.

Nick Williams Exhibitions

Introduction:

Nick Williams' history of art exhibitions, from the iconic windows of Paul Smith in Covent Garden, London, to solo shows in the vibrant East Village of New York City.

Paul Smith Store, Covent Garden, London
Nick Williams kicked off his remarkable journey of art exhibitions with a groundbreaking display in the windows of the Paul Smith store, located in the heart of Covent Garden, London. His art, showcased in the boutique's windows, blended seamlessly with the fashion-forward backdrop, igniting conversations about the intersection of art and fashion.

Midas Store Window Display, Stone Square, London
Williams' next venture took art enthusiasts to the enchanting Stone Square in London. The Midas Store window display, with its golden hues and enigmatic compositions, brought a touch of mystique to the city's streetscape, inviting passersby to pause and ponder the meaning behind the artwork.

Lexington Street, Soho, London
Soho, London's creative epicenter, played host to Nick Williams' innovative art exhibitions on Lexington Street. His work, often characterized by its bold colors and striking symbolism, found a natural home amidst the eclectic energy of this iconic neighborhood.

Portobell...