We had the good fortune of connecting with Nick M and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nick, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’m not so sure that I chose art, so much as art chose me. I don’t know where it comes from or how it manifests itself. However, it’s only recently that I’ve started being more mindful of the creative process and welcoming whatever experiences it wants to bring me. Creating fulfilling work that also evokes emotions from a viewer is the ultimate goal with any piece or collection. I suppose that’s what I’m pursuing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
For me, creating is always an up and down experience. Moments of confidence juxtaposed with moments of crippling self doubt. So when one of my photographs was selected to be shown on a billboard in the city I grew up in, it was as moment of pride knowing my hard work was on display for millions to see.

That being said, learning how to push through the doubt and being OK with not getting the reception you thought you deserve has been the biggest hurdle. For me, it’s not always easy being vulnerable to strangers through my work, but nonetheless I strive to put some elements of my personality in everything I create.

That being said, I’m excited to start using experimental film and create a more abstract and psychedelic body of work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First stop is Tacos Chiwas. I typically cook for myself, but their tacos and gorditas are out of bounds. One of the bartenders actually told me about a secret menu item but that one I’m keeping to myself. Then I think we’d go to the Phoenix Museum of Modern Art. They’ve got some great exhibits and pieces. It’s great way to get the creative juices flowing.
The desert botanical garden at sunset is a nice treat so that would definitely be on the list of things to do.
I have family from Chicago so every once in a while I have to go to over to Portillo’s for an Italian beef sandwich. I can’t imagine I’m getting a meal that would make a nutritionist smile, but it’s too delicious to ignore.
With a half pound of Italian beef in my stomach, we’d go South Mountain to hike it off and get some cool views of the city.
Beyond that, I would just drive in any direction out of the city. Arizona is beautiful and I’m never disappointed.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My partner Kimberly has been a phenomenal influence on me. She has pushed me to continuously evolve and learn in a way that I didn’t know I was capable.

I also have to mention Luigi Ghirri’s work as being tremendously influential. The first time I read one of his essays and saw one of his photographs… it blew my mind.

Website: www.anotherphotosite.com

Instagram: @art.nickm

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.