Meet Nick Rascona: Visual Artist

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

Hi Nick, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Art has always drawn me in. The pull of the creative process, the infinite possibilities for experimentation and the space for expression has gripped my attention for years. Making art has become my focus; shaping the way I see, and the way I think. I’d say my pursuit of a career as an artist is a response to this focus- I want to spend all of my time making art- so that’s what I’m working towards. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a sculptor and a painter or, a Visual Artist. My work thus far investigates natural vs constructed environments and swings between 2D and 3D processes involving wood, paint, and steel. I’ve become proficient with these materials, and I’m exploring new ways to blend the lines between them. I am proud of my progress still, my vision is much further than my resume. I wouldn’t describe my path so far as easy; maybe, “worthy” is a better word. I absolutely love what I do, and choose to do it every single day but it is hard work- and that is the only thing I can positively point to that has landed me where I am today- lots, and lots of hard work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I might start with a list and explain to my friend that we have everything here in the valley- and some of my top recommendations would be as follows: Coffee -Maverick Coffee, Cartel Coffee, Provision Coffee Breakfast- Verdura, Chesnut Fine Foods and Provisions More food- CRUjiente Tacos, Taco Guild, Obon sushi, Yama Sushi, Fellow Osteria, Persepshen, LGO, Chelsea’s Kitchen, AZ 88. Drinks- Adventurous Stills, Phx Beer co, Bonehaus Brewing. Activities- Rock Climbing at Phx Rock Gym, Skateparks across the valley, Music at Lost Leaf, and Valley Bar, Art & History at Phx Art museum, Heard Museum, Pueblo Grande Museum, TCA, Vision Gallery, all kinds of local art Galleries, Japanese Friendship Garden, Phx Botanical Garden, Tucson Botanical Gardens, Boyce Thompson Arboretum and so much more! I’d explain if we get through this entire list then we’ll go for a day trip to Sedona to walk around the Peace Park, Hike Bell Rock and eat at Mariposa. Lastly I’d add that there is so much more- this place is awesome.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to Peter Bugg at Vision Gallery in Chandler who afforded me the opportunity to make the work, “Roommates” currently on display in Chandler- I will eternally be grateful for this opportunity- my first real taste of making sculpture larger than myself. Shoutout to my partner Sarah, to my parents, to my sister. Shout out to all my family, friends, and collectors from where I have received enduring support and encouragement; your support is worth more than I can put into words.

Website: nicolasrascona.com
Instagram: @nickrawsart
Facebook: @nickrawsart