Celebrating Nick Young, the Sailing Artist and On-Water Villager

“I do not paint to try and portray things as an emotional statement but try to portray the quiet emotional structure that shows when someone is seeking the beauty that is available in everyday simple objects.”

In the heart of Main Beach resides a timeless tale of creativity and passion, interwoven into the fabric of our community. It is the story of Nick Young, a revered artist and cherished member of our Main Beach sailing community. This article was only possible due to the efforts of Jen Akers, a fellow sailor and ‘On-Water Villager,’ allowing us to reflect upon a life well lived. Through this posthumous “Meet the Villager” article, we immortalise Nick within Main Beach, honouring his indelible mark on our hearts and minds, and the lasting impact of his efforts and contributions.

Nick’s artistic journey was one of profound beauty and immense talent. With each stroke of his brush, he brought to life a world of emotions, capturing the essence of everyday objects and transforming them into works of art that stirred the soul. His remarkable ability to portray the quiet emotional structures that lie within the simplest of things touched the hearts of all who beheld his creations.

On Water Villager

Nick embraced a truly unique lifestyle, making his home aboard the magnificent SV Ishmael, a classic 20-metre gaff-rigged topsail schooner that gracefully sailed the Main Beach waters for many memorable years. Eventually, he made the difficult decision to part ways with his cherished vessel, but his love for the sea and his boating community remained unwavering. Throughout his life, Nick forged deep connections with locals, particularly within the boating community, leaving an indelible mark as a dear friend and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

SV Ishael around the Main Beach Waters
The image above is not a Nick Young Painting,  just an adaption for the purpose of this article only – I sincerely hope it is received in good faith ~ Steve 

On Canvas

But Nick’s artistic talent extended far beyond the shores. His mastery of portraiture and landscape painting left an indelible mark on the art world. His portrait of Pro Hart and Associates, now proudly displayed in the National Portrait Gallery collection, stands as a testament to his artistic brilliance.

In his final years, Nick turned his gaze towards the serene beauty of landscapes, capturing the tranquility of Marine Stadium and the surrounding shoreline. These paintings, born from a deep connection to the natural world, reflect the serenity and inner peace Nick found in his last few years.

This piece by Nick Young ‘North Stradbroke Island‘ is currently available as part of our Sunshine State 2020 Exhibition. With perfect Winter weather, whale migration in progress, and naturally wonderful scenery.
http://www.artchat.com.au

Legacys take willingness, passion and time

Nick had a profound contribution and impact on the lives of many and I suspect he leaves a legacy that opens new possibilities for those who follow and though he may no longer be a Villager with us in person, his spirit will forever sail on, guiding many who carry his memory through the waters of artistic expression to embrace the beauty that surrounds us and a reminder to seize the opportunity that life affords us all  – an opportunity driven by passion and creativity.

So to sign off this article on Nick – Your Village and its Villagers Remember.

I did not know you Nick, but through Jen Akers, I have come to know you. I am always inspired by those who are aware and respectful of the opportunity, life is a one-time deal, life is the opportunity. If you also have the courage to mix in your raw willingness and hold the courage of passion, you will have given your best. I cannot think of a greater legacy to leave for others to build upon.

Thank you, Jen, but most of all thank you, Nick Young.

Steve

More Paintings by Nick

Kevin ‘Pro’ Hart MBE (1928-2006), painter and sculptor, was born in Broken Hill, NSW, and grew up on his family’s nearby sheep station. He worked as a miner in his early twenties before turning to painting full time at the age of thirty. In 1962 an Adelaide gallery director discovered Hart and mounted the artist’s first solo exhibition. Since his first London solo show in 1972 his work has been exhibited all round the world, from Los Angeles and New York to Cairo and Manila, and his paintings are held in the collections of Prince Philip and the White House. Known mainly for his paintings in oils and acrylics, scenes of bush life in electric blue, orange and mustard, he also makes sculptures in steel, bronze and ceramics. Genuine Harts are identifiable through the artist’s genetic mark, applied to the works via a process known as DNA ArtGuard. One of the country’s most popular and widely recognised artists, in 1976 Hart received an MBE for his services to art in Australia.
Source: https://www.portrait.gov.au/portraits/2004.234/pro-hart-associates

Collection: National Portrait Gallery
Gift of the artist 2004
© Nick Young

Introspection, a work in progress,  “Self Portrait”. We can’t wait to see the finished painting.  Here is Nick with his Portrait of Jon English. http://www.artchat.com.au

By Steve Holmes

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