Nate Williams
I was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, but spent
the first 14 years of my life in the extremely liberal San Francisco
Bay Area (Berkeley). I returned to ultra-conservative Utah in
high school and that is when I really realized how diverse the
world was.
I had a learning disability when I was young
and reading text didn't make much sense to me so the early years
of my life I responded better to imagery such as MAD Magazine,
Skateboard Graphics, Food Packaging, stickers, Dr Seuss and
Shel Silverstein drawings. I was also very hyperactive so I
didn't have the patience to sit down and read -- imagery was
a very quick, effortless way to get information.
Art has been a part of my life for as long
as I can remember. But I think Became aware that what I was
doing was called "art" probably at around the age
of 7 or so. My mother and grandmother would say, "ah, more
artwork Nathan?" and I didn't know what it was called,
so sure, "more artwork".
My family has always showed an appreciation
for other cultures / countries. My Grandmother, originally from
Germany, was involved with the non-profit AFS (International
Exchange Program) and we hosted a number of foreign exchange
students from Nigeria, Belgium, Argentina and more. When I was
about 14 years old I had an opportunity to travel to Australia
with a friend. Although my mother didn't have much money, she
made sacrifices in order for me to see another part of the world.
The seeds had been planted.
Later on in life I worked as a designer and
art director for ad agencies and a software company. This is
when I became aware of how much the media and our environment
influences our lives. At this point I knew I needed to surround
myself with amazing people and environments that would inspire
me and make me curious about the world. Dan's book has an humongous
impact on me, it showed me a range of emotion, beauty and horror
in a way I absorb information best... VISUALLY. I loved how
curious and fearless he was of the world and it was contagious.
2 years ago I decided I would figure out away I could experience
the world first hand .. through all my senses, taste, touch,
sound, sight, and smell. I specifically have in interest in
Latin America culture and I have traveled to Costa Rica, Panama,
Chile, Uruguay and I currently live in Argentina.
I think its very important to contribute something
positive and inspire people like so many people have inspired
me. I have contributed to many pro-bono projects and continue
to be involved in grassroots art projects. |
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