Artist Harvey Nichol - Know Your Worth

What once was a dark and lonely past, a life that was coloured in black and white turns into something so beautiful. Raised by a single mother in Tondo, Philippines, Harvey Nichol’s work was inspired by his upbringing, being in the darkest time of his life, and having a fresh new start.

(Trigger Warning: Mention of suicide and mental health)

Harvey described his childhood to be very chaotic. He recalled house-hopping due to living expenses and the “lack of opportunity”. At the age of 10, his mother, unfortunately, passed away. Seeing there was no future for him in Tondo, Manila, Philippines, his father later took him in and brought him over to Canada. Upon moving to Canada, Harvey faced many challenges: culture shock, micro, and macro-aggressions - you name it. The racism and stereotypes built around first and second-generation immigrants caused an identity crisis, leading him to lose touch with his roots.

“I would not be who I am today if I did not discover the art scene.” - Harvey Nichol

Photo by Aiden James. 

During his high school years, Harvey participated in after-school programs that encouraged many youth artists. One of them was “Refreshed Crew", which taught him the four elements of hip-hop. There, he learned different art forms through his peers and mentors and blossomed into the start of a new chapter in his life.

In 2015, Harvey slipped into a depression. This caused him to attempt to take his own life, but lucky for him, he was saved from what could have ended in a tragedy. This was a life-altering event, as it completely changed his perspective on life. He did what he knew was best for him. “It was better for me to live my life couch surfing and in the streets than staying at home,” said Harvey. 

Once he outgrew the foster care system at the age of 17, he moved on his own to be independent. Getting the taste of freedom and adulthood, he made connections within his neighbourhood and found a group of artists he resonated with. After meeting these talented creatives, he collaborated and threw his first art exhibition in a local underground cannabis cafe. Originally, the event was to be named “The Millennial Freezone”. Colleagues in the art, music and fashion industry, and local vendors like 9597 Apparel also joined him. The event was well-received by the community, giving the creative industry a chance to thrive in the city.

“Mayari: The Goddess of the Moon and Daughter of Bathala” - Artwork by Harvey Nichol

Harvey sees art as a tool that gives a voice一an expression of hope, a sense of belonging, as well as past and present experiences. For Harvey, his artwork is influenced by his roots (being a native from the Philippines), and his emotions. He sees art as a tool; inclusive to all, more importantly, a tool that is used to give the “voiceless a voice”.

“I see art as a way to get out of poverty.” - Harvey Nichol.

The art scene of New York in the ’80s and ’90s was his source of inspiration. Jean Michel Basquiat was an artist whom he idolized, being a part of the New-Expressionism movement. In a lot of his work, you will find hints of Philippine culture, history, mythology, and folklore as his base. These pieces are intertwined with inspiration from skateboard culture and streetwear. As a Filipino who lives on stolen land, he clearly understands these social issues and uses his arts as a way to express his opinions on, for example, human conditions and social commentary on sociopolitics. A major part of his artistic influence is derived from the “Social Realism Movement” - a 1970’s movement that opposed Marcos and martial law of the Philippines. The resentment he felt over the years along with the idea to prove those who doubted his talents fueled his motivation to pursue arts.

(From left to right) “Tarik Soliman”, “Perseus Slaying the Gorgon Medusa”, “Riding in Tandem” - Artworks by Harvey Nichol

Harvey has explored different canvas’ and mediums throughout his career. He has done graffiti on walls that indicate “Harvey was here.” Other canvases he has used are skateboards and experiments with the body through body art, using mediums, such as tattooing and body painting.

Being an artist has always been his calling. Harvey is not afraid to test his abilities with different mediums to stand out. In his eyes, art was an opportunity to get out of poverty. It was a challenge he made for himself to prove people otherwise - a stepping stone to his success. 

Harvey extends his work on textiles with items people can use on a day-to-day basis, such as totes, shirts, and masks.

“Streetwear fashion has always been a big part of my life since I was a teenager. I don't think it's a conscious choice to start putting my art into textile,” said Harvey. “I think it was an automatic response as I want my art to not only be on walls. I want my art to enter the world of everyday people.”

Harvey collaborates with other local artists specialized in the fashion industry to produce pieces for everyone to enjoy. To get his merch, check out Velour Clothing Exchange on June 1, 2021, as they will be carrying your favourite everyday essentials in-store!

Visit www.harveynichol.ca to purchase his products. Images courtesy of Harvey.

“Some wounds heal and time heals all. My motivation has become more about my people than me, personally.” - Harvey Nichol

To find one’s true self, one must go through the good and the bad times. Harvey was able to pull himself up and tell his story through his art. 

LISA LABORATORY X HARVEYISDEAD” Collaboration - Image courtesy of Harvey Nichol

As an artist, it comes with its challenges, advantages, and disadvantages. Your hands are your secret weapon. With a little bit of practice, you can excel in anything. If Harvey can overcome these barriers, so can you. Before becoming an artist, he was a videographer and photographer. He loves exploring different mediums of art. Whether it’s through music, literature, digital or canvas, Harvey is willing to take the risk and try new things. One of his current projects is his very first graphic novel, which will soon make its debut!

“I would say don't wait for the opportunity to come,  create your own opportunities,”  said Harvey. “Know your worth. The talent you hold must not be taken for granted, rather it should be appreciated. Art is art. No matter what medium is used and is not something you can learn overnight, but over time.”

Keep up with Harvey and his upcoming projects on his Instagram @harveyisdead and his online portfolio and shop. Harvey and his friends will also host an event on July 31 and August 1, 2021, at the nvrlnd boutique. Stay tuned for more information!