New Work in My Black Male Artist Professor Series — Portrait #22 of 25: Nick Cave is completed as of April 7, 2026.✨
I’m excited to share that the portrait painting of Nick Cave is completed. This series highlights Black male artist professors.
This portrait, on a 36” × 48” premium wooden panel, began with a geometric abstract background that embeds symbolic references to Nick Cave. Black and white colors reference the Kansas City Art Institute, where he received his BFA. Layered metallic tones—copper, gold, black, and white—serve as interpretive references to Cranbrook Academy of Art, where he earned his MFA. Additional black-and-white interval colors acknowledge the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), where he is a professor and former Chair of the Fashion Department. @nickcaveart
The patterned geometry in the background serves as a connective system or approach that is used mostly throughout the series, embedding subtle references to Cave’s work on movement, performance, celebration, and transformation. Each layer is designed to reward careful looking, inviting discovery, and dialogue.
The figure painting was completed using layered acrylic paint, paper, material contrasts, and casein paint.
Thanks 🙏🏿
A Symbolic Representation of Nick Cave | Casein, acrylic paper, and metal on a premium wooden panel | 36" x 48" | 2026
📌 About Nick Cave
Nick Cave (b. 1959, Fulton, MO) is a multidisciplinary artist best known for his Soundsuits—elaborate sculptural forms merging fashion, performance, and visual art. His work addresses identity, race, and visibility, and his training at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater informs the performative dimension of his practice.
#NickCave BlackMaleArtists #ArtSeries #ContemporaryArt ArtistProcess #soundsuits