Behind The Urban Canvas with Nicci Swartz

Street art is often perceived as the rebellious sibling of traditional art, with its ability to transform any space into an open gallery for all to see. Although this art style formed its roots in various subcultures, such as graffiti and hip-hop, it has since evolved to become so much more.

Many artists say that it's about reclaiming public spaces and enhancing the beauty of our urban environments. The world and the people who reside in it, are what many artists draw inspiration from.

This is exactly where Nicci Swartz draws her inspiration:

“We’re beautiful, we’re resilient, and we’re passionate people. I want everyone to see and feel the beauty of our country and each other.”

In this blog, we get to know street artist Nicci Swartz and learn all about her creative process.

1. How did you first get into street art? What drew you to this form of expression?

Ever since I was a student, I was always drawn to artwork that overpowers the viewer, purely because of its vast dimension and the freedom and rebelliousness of the spray-paint medium.
This medium is so contemporary and urban, and most of all, not in a private gallery but rather, out there for everyone to enjoy. It is universal, no language is needed, and it's up to the individual to interpret.

2. Can you tell us about your artistic style and the themes you explore in your work?

My style is definitely Urban Contemporary and very Expressive, I seldom colour between the lines and the importance of an expressive mark is what separates the messiness and human footprint, vs the digital and AI categories.
I am highly influenced by the Eastern Cape, our people, our culture and our colours. My colours are derivative of the rural Xhosa villages, and the beautiful bright colours of their homes are brought into a juxtaposition using a modern medium like spray paint in an urban setting.
My subjects are most often portraits, whether animals, persons or plants. Portraits, being so traditional, once again juxtaposed against the modern medium.

3. How do you choose the locations for your street art pieces? What factors influence your decision?

I am so blessed to have gotten large contracts and commissions to do most of the work I have done. Luckily the clients have allowed me to express my own images within the lines of their briefs, but generally, they have come to me because of my style, with the subject of showcasing our country and its beauty.

4. Street art often interacts with its surroundings. How does the environment influence your creative process?

The huge mural of Madiba, in Central Port Elizabeth, was commissioned by the Rate Payers Association to create a sense of pride, and uplift and inspire the community. The Boardwalk Mall specifically wanted to showcase Port Elizabeth and its surroundings.
Pro-Dive commissioned the large penguins at the beachfront, to bring awareness to the environment - we have a large number of penguins washing up in our area frequently. They are passionate about the environment so it was so easy for me to interpret.
One of my biggest moments has been the sale of a portrait I did during Covid. It represented a girl called ‘Ntombazana’ - a friend I played with as a very young child. Her portrait was acquired by Standard Chartered Bank for their portfolio collection and now hangs in their new branch in Sri-Lanka.

5. Street art has the power to evoke emotions and provoke thought. How do you aim to connect with your audience through your work?

Firstly the impact of colour and size, to grab attention and magnify the importance of the subject. I am a glass-half-full kind of human, so I like to inspire through showcasing the beauty of what we have and to throw a positive and inspiring light on our country.
We’re beautiful, we’re resilient, and we’re passionate people. I want everyone to see and feel the beauty of our country and each other.

6. The theme that Caterpillar has introduced this year, is to Break New Ground. Can you comment on how this relates to your craft?

This is what I love about the brand: progress.
Look at how graffiti and street art have become such an important and valuable process in today's world. It holds the power to inspire people through art that is relatable to this generation, an art form to be shared with everyone. When a wall becomes a canvas, and a road becomes a gallery, a town becomes a community.
It's all about acceptance and moving forward. It's great to see a brand keeping up with the times, both figuratively and literally breaking ground.

7. Lastly, are you enjoying your Cat Footwear? What styles have you chosen and what do you like about them?

I chose the Bruiser 2.0 in OOH colour, absolutely gorgeous and would never work in them because they’re just too divine to mess paint on.
The ones that I am most impressed with are the brand new Intruder Mecha ….wowzers! They look so hardcore but so light and soooooooo comfortable, every time I wear them someone compliments me….absolutely love them!! Thank you, CAT! XOXO

Breaking New Ground with Art

Art is such a powerful medium to convey important messages.

It is a form of expression that can be used to reach out to many people, and Nicci Swartz has shown us exactly how artists can break new ground.

Are you an artist pushing boundaries in your own way? Whether you're experimenting with new techniques, challenging norms, or exploring untold stories, Cat invites you to take that bold first step. Share your journey and inspire others through your art.