Jim Nickel studied philosophy and classical languages as a seminarian, attended and later taught 3D design at Washington University, earned his MFA and teaching certification at Columbia University, has been a visiting artist in the New York State school system, and for four decades, has had his studio in Brooklyn. Photography, printmaking, painting and sculpture are the major media. His current black and white “Venture Series” sculptures, inspired by stark commercial logos, cautionary street markings, signs, and imperatives, codify the pressures and regimentation of contemporary life, and formulate their ultimate resolution. Some works recall the vividness of pre-digital black and white photography. Work has appeared in New York outdoor venues and galleries, and has been represented by the Terry Moore and Atrium Galleries in St.Louis. Among his collectors are the Library of Congress, NY Public Library, Rutgers University, UC Chico, St. Louis Art Museum, as well private collectors, corporations, and designers.