Nigel Sense

 

Nigel Sense is a Wollongong-born Australian visual artist. Nomadic by nature, Sense’s keen interest in travel and discovery informs his idiosyncratic style.

Sense has showcased his unique and dynamic style in solo and group exhibitions across Australia and Sri Lanka. Notable exhibitions include his debut American exhibition with Bridgette Mayer Gallery in 2025; also, participation in the Colombo Art Biennale in 2009 and 2012, as well as his award-winning solo exhibition "I Work with Tools" at Sydney's Sheffer Gallery in September 2012. Sense's distinctive approach caught the eye of Porsche, leading to a 2021 commission to design a custom livery for the Taycan in honor of the manufacturer's 70th anniversary in Australia. In 2022, Sense is set to hold his first institutional solo exhibition at the National Centre of Contemporary Art (NCCA) in Darwin.

Inspired by American abstract expressionists and 1960s pop artists, Sense's work combines elements of neo-expressionism and social expressionism. He transforms mass reproduction and media influence into thematic material, drawing from his suburban upbringing for inclusive and relatable narratives. Sense's vibrant paintings, characterized by immediacy and engagement, convey messages of understanding and empathy through humor and fun.

Sense's artistic process is described as primal and instinctive, with energetic brushstrokes capturing his emotional state. He places instinct and emotion above figurative composition, resulting in layered imagery reflecting his mindset. His works explore everyday scenes, from workplace interactions to mundane moments, offering social commentary and insights into the human experience.

While travel restrictions due to Covid have shifted his focus to local inspiration, Sense continues to infuse his art with the sensory overload of travel experiences. By translating visual stimuli into vibrant compositions, he finds inspiration in the landscapes and cultures of the Northern Territory. Sense's impactful work has garnered recognition through selections for prestigious awards like Salon De Refuses, Mosman Art Prize, Black Swan Art Prize, and Kilgour Art Prize.