Unmasking the Enigma Graffiti Artist Pose aka Jordan Nickel

Street art and graffiti have come a long way from their humble beginnings, evolving into a respected art form that now graces galleries and private collections worldwide. One artist who has contributed significantly to this transformation is Jordan Nickel, better known as POSE. This article takes an in-depth look at the life and work of this talented artist, discussing his roots, artistic style, and collaborations.

Find Pose- Jordan Nickel Art Here!

Entering the World of Graffiti: The Birth of POSE

Born in 1980 in Evanston, Illinois, Jordan Nickel grew up in a creative household, with his father being a graphic designer and his mother an interior decorator. From a young age, Nickel was exposed to various forms of art, which would later influence his artistic journey. Despite his artistic upbringing, Nickel initially struggled to find his place in the art world. It wasn't until he discovered graffiti culture that he found his true calling. As a teenager, Nickel became fascinated by the graffiti culture in Chicago, particularly the works of artists like Dondi White and Keith Haring. Inspired by their bold styles and fearless self-expression, Nickel decided to dive into the world of graffiti. Adopting the name POSE, he started creating his own murals and tags around the city.

POSE's Unique Style and Influences

Over the years, POSE's style has evolved, combining elements of pop art, abstract expressionism, and graphic design. His work often features vibrant colors, bold geometric shapes, and intricate patterns. Some of the key influences on POSE's art include comic books, advertising, and vintage signage, which he incorporates into his pieces to create a unique visual language. As POSE's notoriety grew, so did the demand for his work. In 2007, he was invited to participate in a group exhibition titled "The Underbelly Project," which showcased street art in an abandoned subway station in New York City. This opportunity marked a turning point in his career, as his work began to gain recognition from galleries and collectors. Transitioning from the streets to the studio, POSE continued to push the boundaries of his art. He expanded his repertoire to include canvas, sculptures, and installations, which allowed him to experiment with new techniques and materials.

Art in the Streets: The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (2011)

In 2011, POSE was part of the groundbreaking "Art in the Streets" exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles. Curated by Jeffrey Deitch and Roger Gastman, the exhibition brought together works by some of the most influential graffiti and street artists in history, such as Banksy, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Shepard Fairey. POSE's participation in this landmark event further cemented his status as a leading figure in contemporary street art.

Unmasking the Enigma Graffiti Artist Pose aka Jordan Nickel

Rowhouse 2 Silkscreen Print by Pose- Jordan Nickel

$1,590.00$1,352.00

Lips Blue & Black Emote Monoprints Silkscreen Print by Pose- Jordan Nickel

$2,471.00$2,100.00

Relief Variant Black Silkscreen Print by Pose- Jordan Nickel

$1,590.00$1,352.00

Hello Kitty Collaboration (2014)

In 2014, POSE collaborated with the iconic brand Hello Kitty to create a series of limited-edition art toys and prints. This partnership showcased POSE's ability to merge his signature style with the playful and recognizable imagery of Hello Kitty, resulting in a collection that was both visually stunning and highly collectible.

Solo Exhibition: Galerie Openspace, Paris (2016)

In 2016, POSE held his first solo exhibition at Galerie Openspace in Paris, titled "FRANK." This show featured a collection of paintings and sculptures inspired by the artist's love for vintage signage and Americana. With this exhibition, POSE demonstrated his versatility as an artist, successfully transitioning from the streets to a gallery setting.

Mural at the Bowery Wall, New York City (2018)

In 2018, POSE was given the prestigious opportunity to create a mural at the Bowery Wall, a landmark location for street art in New York City. The Bowery Wall has showcased the work of renowned artists like Keith Haring, Banksy, and Shepard Fairey. POSE's colorful and dynamic mural paid homage to the history of graffiti and street art, while also showcasing his unique visual language.

Beyond the Streets: New York City (2019)

• "Beyond the Streets" was a massive street art and graffiti exhibition that took place in New York City in 2019. Curated by Roger Gastman, the event featured the work of more than 150 artists from around the world, including POSE. This exhibition further solidified POSE's reputation as an influential figure in the contemporary street art scene.
• Social and Political Commentary in POSE's Art
• Throughout his career, POSE has used his art to address social and political issues. His work often features themes of identity, consumerism, and the impact of mass media on society. By incorporating these thought-provoking subjects into his art, POSE encourages viewers to question the world around them and engage in meaningful conversations.

From his humble beginnings in the graffiti scene of Chicago to his meteoric rise in the global contemporary art world, Jordan Nickel, known as POSE, has proven that dedication and artistic vision can lead to astounding success. His compelling fusion of pop art, abstract expressionism, and graphic design, paired with his unyielding passion for self-expression, has made him a standout figure in the realm of street art. POSE's ability to transition seamlessly between various mediums and settings, such as murals, installations, and gallery exhibitions, demonstrates his artistic prowess and versatility. His willingness to collaborate with other artists and brands, as well as his drive to push the boundaries of his craft, have further solidified his status as an innovative force in the art world.

Perhaps one of the most notable aspects of POSE's work is his commitment to using his art as a platform for addressing pressing social and political issues. Through his thought-provoking pieces, he sparks conversations on topics such as identity, consumerism, and the impact of mass media. In doing so, he encourages viewers not only to appreciate the aesthetics of his creations but also to engage in critical thinking and reflection. The remarkable journey of graffiti artist POSE serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to transcend societal boundaries. His contributions to the street art movement, along with his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, have left an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art. As a trailblazer and inspiration for future generations of artists, POSE's legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate for years to come.

Find Pose- Jordan Nickel Art Here!