Local artist profile: Nathan Sims aka Mr Dimples

This week we speak with street artist Nathan Sims, also known as Mr Dimples.

What motivated you to become an artist?

When I was younger I struggled to express my inner thoughts. I always thought it was weak to show emotions. My art became a creative outlet to release these feelings, like therapy on a canvas. But it has also been nice for viewers of my work to reach out and comment on how my art has helped them through their demons and put a smile on their faces.

Can you describe your artistic style?

I have had my work best described as a little bit pop art and a little bit surrealism, with a touch of me injected into it. For me, my style has just developed over a decade, where I would always be constantly drawing monsters and critters in staff meetings. However, these sketches look nothing like the critters I create today. Back then I used a lot more colour.

How did you develop your interest in street art?

Seven years ago I was lucky enough to attend the first of several annual camps to Blender Studios. Here I learnt stencils, paste-ups and freehand spraying, and improved my knowledge and skills in the art form, but also built a strong network of like-minded artists.

But it was the exposure I got from local newspapers that really kicked my career along. It seemed overnight I had become a street artist and was offered murals, gigs and exhibitions in quick succession, and five years down the track, I haven’t slowed down.

What have you been working on lately?

I am curating the art space at St. John of God Bendigo, where I select new exhibitions every three months, and work with staff at the hospital to hang and display the art. I have an exhibition coming up at The Old Auction House in Kyneton from September 16 to 27.

Last month I moved into a new studio space located in the Avenue Studios. I am setting up the space to eventually hold workshops and other activities to engage young artists to build networks and connections. I also have a few products being sold at the new store in Golden Square, Blue Wombat.

What are some highlights from your career so far?

Seeing my paste-ups on Master Chef was awesome. Being the face for visual arts in the Bendigo tourism booklet was great. Coming second in the Rochester Mural Festival was a blast. Getting to hang out with my graffiti group from Melbourne has been a big eye opener and huge support system. But the biggest highlight was doing one of my stencils on live TV, with Sam Mac from Sunrise and local artist, Nacho-station.

How has your art practice been affected by COVID?

Being a teacher by day and artist by night means that I still have an income to support myself. As a person, I always try to make the most of bad situations, and I turned the frustrations of my first lock down into an exhibition, which was exhibited at Brunswick Street Gallery last year.

Where can people access your work online?

You can access me on Instagram @mrdimples74, Facebook via Mr Dimples Art and my website address is mrdimples.com.au. My products and artwork can be purchased on my website too.