Born in 1943 in Bristol, Nigel studied at the West of England College of Art (1960-64) and the Royal College of Art, London (1964-67). He has received the Pollock Krasner Award and the Jack Goldhill RA Sculpture Prize. In 2003 he was elected a Royal Academician and has held teaching posts at the Royal College of Art and Chelsea School of Art in London, and the Rome School, Italy. In 2017 Nigel received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the Arts, London.

Recently, Nigel visited BGS for the first time since leaving in 1960 and very generously gifted his old school a wonderful sculpture of his. “Southern Shade I. 2012” was made in MDF as a prototype for a series of bronze versions made in 2012 and has been exhibited at the RA, Gloucester Cathedral and Canary Wharf. The sculptures were inspired by Nigel's time in the South of France and his drawings of plants, particularly parasol pines, which are expressed through interwoven linear elements that represent both the solid form and the "shadow interior". The series includes pieces in various materials like bronze, painted steel, and aluminium, which are designed to be visually light despite their weight and to shift with the viewer's perspective. We are delighted to have been able to welcome Nigel back to school and grateful for gifting this outstanding work to BGS where it can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Can you remember any teachers who had an impact on you?

Mr. Carter I remember as he, knowing I liked art and with extraordinary generosity, gave me a handful of ancient coins, Greek, Roman and early English. They are with me still and are a regular source of pleasure. Then there was Mr Payne, who, if I remember correctly, taught English and organised the drama at the school which I enjoyed. Dr Martin attempted to teach me Latin in his rather dusty gown. A little stays with me but most strongly, his favourite saying ‘now boys, mark, learn and inwardly digest’.

Mr Tapp, the aptly named woodwork master I think of every time I see the handle of my bench-mounted vice in the vertical position. He successfully instilled in me the warning to turn it safely horizontal to avoid a pinched finger. Mr Trott the PT master,  another aptly named appointment, was well liked but I seem to remember also left for health reasons.

Are you still in touch with anyone from your year? 

I’m still in touch with Martin Brueton, who was head of paediatrics at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. Also, John Maine, another sculptor.

Why art? 

As a person of solitary disposition and one who enjoyed making, it suited my character very well.

What have been the highlights of career?

My first solo exhibition in Paris in 1967 was a definite highlight. Gaining the Harkness Fellowship to the USA in the same year, another. Appointed Royal Academician in 2003 and a major retrospective at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park in 2008.

What challenges are there in your industry currently?

One of the biggest challenges comes from the ready accessibility of images via technology rather than the quiet, gradual and direct observation of art in the real world. 

How was your recent visit to BGS?

A great pleasure, a delight to see how it has been transformed into a joyful place of learning and discovery.

What’s next for you?

I am in the process of preparing a solo exhibition of my sculpture and drawings at Annely Juda Fine Art, 16 Hanover Square, London opening in March.

What motivates you?

The pleasure and excitement of seeing how the next work will evolve.

How do you relax?

I relax by spending quiet time in my studio often with music. I also enjoy drawing from nature and I am stimulated by travel.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Take every opportunity that is offered, each one could be the beginning of a new journey.