John Nieto (1936-2018) is widely regarded as one of America's most accomplished, dynamic and exciting contemporary artists, concentrating on themes that transcended mere representation. He utilized intense primary colors, applied in bold strokes, to give dimension and character to the canvas. In his etchings and drawings, Nieto employed classic linear techniques resulting in images of great detail and depth. In all of Nieto's art, sensitivity and respect for his subjects are projected. His work personifies his unique vision of the subjects he painted on canvases alive with vibrant, electric hues. Nieto's work reflects his Hispanic and American Indian ancestry. New Mexican roots can be traced back over three hundred years. His unfettered use of brilliant color has been likened to the 1920's French Fauvist movement, which impressed him greatly during a visit to Paris. The Fauves gave him "permission" to use the colors he already felt intuitively.
Nieto's distinctive style, combination of subject matter, expressionist technique, and use of strong color is instantly recognizable and collectors throughout the United States and abroad prize his work. He produced bronze sculptures, etchings, lithographs and silk- screen prints, in addition to drawings in pastel crayons and charcoal. After participating in an exhibit at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., Nieto met with President Reagan in the Oval Office and presented him with the painting "Delegate to the White House." The painting hung for the duration of the President's term in office and now has been included in the presidential library.
In 1981, Nieto participated by invitation in the "Salon d'Autumn" at the Grand Palais, Paris, France, and in 1989 he mounted a one-man show at the Axis Gallery in Tokyo, Japan. Nieto received the New Mexico Governor's Award for Achievement in the Arts in 1994, and served on the Advisory Boards for both the Wheelwright Museum and the Native American Preparatory School. He is represented in the New Mexico Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe and called New Mexico his ancestral home.
In his last year of life, Nieto completed 20 new cubist paintings, working until his last days. John passed away at the age of 81 on July 11th, 2018, peacefully in his home in Texas surrounded by family.
Vendor:Altamira Fine Art
