Shadows and spirits

MANILA, Philippines - I saw something move,” she said as we came to a stop. We were looking for a spot to take her photo, and it was probably the wind, but I could only guess what kind of animal might have slithered through both the makahiya plants and her mind at that time. But tread she did, and I merely followed.        

Nicole Coson’s approach to art brings to mind the subtle risk she took as we explored the field that afternoon. She braves the unknown and sometimes that’s all it takes for something worthwhile to happen.

Her life is a sharp turn from that of her family’s retail success story. In fact, the 20-year-old was featured for her art and distinct portraiture a few years back as part of Young Star’s relaunch, in the first batch of our Fresh Produce list of up-and-coming young adults.

This week, we catch up with Nicole for the latest on her exhibit “Spirit Captures,” among other nostalgic and normal things.

YOUNG STAR: Your exhibit is set to open this week. What inspired you to take on this kind of series?

NICOLE COSON: Myths, old wives’ tales, religion and personal experience have informed my work for many years. The “Spirit Captures” series is a branch of a continuous train of thought that has been the subject of my fascination since I was young.

For those who don’t know (well, including myself), what exactly is monotype printing and why opt for such a method when putting together your subject?

Monotype printing is a technique where I can create an image by slowly wiping away at an inked non-absorbent surface. In my case, it was a thin sheet of scrap zinc. I then transfer the image from the non-absorbent surface onto paper using a printing press, creating one unique print. It feels as if I have discovered a medium waiting especially for my sensibilities and skills, alongside the themes of obscurity, disappearance, or impulses.

How did you first start out as an artist anyway?

I drew a lot when I was a kid, like most kids. I spent days by myself absorbing the world and drawing it on paper. But I didn’t take it seriously until junior year in high school where I had the most amazing teacher who granted me that “I’m finally good at something!” feeling.

And how would you describe your approach to art now compared to before? I understand this isn’t your first exhibit.

I have never really been ready to show this much work before. I find that this series is bolder than my older work.

Older work meaning those back in the UK?

Yes, I was part of two group shows this year in London, but this is the first time these works are being seen in public ever. These works are so new I haven’t even had the chance to see them all in one room!

In a more general sense, how does it feel to present your art to the public?

I always get quite nervous about it actually. I think I’d feel more chilled out if I was in the middle of the room naked. (Laughs)

Were critics always nice, though?

There will always be people that don’t like your work; I welcome that. I’m quite an opinionated person, too, so I should be able to take a few blows.

What music are you currently obsessing over?

Right now I’m listening to a lot of stuff from the ‘60s and ‘70s. A lot of Krautrock and psychedelia. It puts me in a good place for working, and I can listen to it for a long time without having to change the song on iTunes with dirty work hands. Which is a real mess sometimes.

It’s nice you get to go back every now and then. What do you think the art scene here has that the UK doesn’t necessarily have?

I haven’t been wading these waters long enough to be prepared to make the generalizations I need to compare the two.

But what are your not-so-distant plans after all this?

I’m going way bigger next.

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Catch Nicole Coson’s ongoing exhibit “Spirit Captures” at West Gallery, and check her out online at nicolecoson.com.