Brian Raynard Nickson

Photo courtesy of Jeff Cancelosi 2023©️

Brian Raynard Nickson is a prolific artist whose creative journey began at the tender age of three. In 2005, he proudly graduated from Cass Tech, a testament to his early dedication to the craft. Following his high school years, Brian's passion for art led him to the College for Creative Studies, where he honed his skills for a year. He then briefly attended Eastern Michigan University, although his thirst for artistic expression would eventually run out.

Brian regained his passion for the arts in 2014 while struggling to maintain employment. In 2017, Brian's journey to become a full-time artist took a remarkable turn when he made a life-changing decision. He courageously left his job at Chrysler, taking a leap of faith after asking for a sign from God. Almost as if in direct response to his prayer, fate intervened when the exhaust pipe on his vehicle cracked immediately after leaving a post office, propelling him further down the path towards his true calling as an artist. This serendipitous moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one dedicated to the pursuit of his artistic passion.

 In 2018, Brian Nickson achieved a significant milestone in his career, earning recognition as the Detroit Metro Times' Best Visual Artist—an accolade that solidified his position as a rising star in the art world. His talent transcended regional boundaries, gaining nationwide attention in 2019 when his masterpiece "Wine Fine" garnered mention in the prestigious New York Times. Brian's artistic prowess extended to the realm of entertainment, with “Wine Fine” featured prominently in the national TV series "Better Things." This marked a pivotal moment as his art reached a broader audience through the medium of television. 

 Furthermore, his creative vision made its mark on the cinematic landscape in 2021, with his art placement in the movie "Power N Money," which captivated audiences on Tubi. This fusion of art and film showcased Brian Nickson's ability to evoke emotion and tell compelling stories through his visual creations. Brian Raynard Nickson's artistic journey continues to inspire and captivate, proving that true talent knows no boundaries.