Nils Westergard
The lowdown on Nils Westergard
Amsterdam
Nils Westergard is a Belgian-American street artist, stencil artist, and filmmaker known for his large-scale murals and intricate stenciled works. With a nomadic spirit rooted in Richmond, Virginia, he now proudly calls Amsterdam home, a city that has profoundly influenced his creative vision. Nils Westergard's work is shaped by a variety of experiences, often exploring themes of social unrest, personal connections, and a growing fascination with majestic birds of prey. His artistry captures the complexities of human emotion and societal narratives, merging them into dynamic visual statements. In Amsterdam, he drew inspiration from the city’s vibrant bike culture, leading to the creation of the "The Amsterdam Cyclist" project. This initiative celebrates the city’s creative cyclists while encapsulating their stories and spirit through an artistic lens. The project culminated in a published book that vividly portrays the lives of those who navigate the streets on two wheels, further underscoring Nils' commitment to community storytelling. Nils Westergard continues to challenge his stencil skills, blending mural art and narrative in a unique and unforgettable way.
"A history of theatrical set painting and graffiti shenanigans led him to adapt his stencil imagery to large-scale murals on the street."
