The Colorful Newcomer

Growing up on the beaches of California, Erik Skoldberg’s laid back surfer style reaches beyond the canvas as his vibrant use of color, interactive installations, and unique layering process offer a one-of-a-kind art experience. Skoldberg may be new to Nashville, but the creative mastermind is certainly not new to the art community as his iconic work is immensely popular in a number of luxury markets around the world. Mentored by his mother, who he credits as his greatest teacher and supporter, Skoldberg’s contemporary style has been embraced by impressive, elite clientele. He has quickly garnered attention and become one of the most highly sought after artists for brand collaborations including notable mentions Adidas, Goodlife, Casamigos, and British Customs for Triumph Motorcycles. We had the opportunity to check out his uber cool Nashville studio to learn a little bit more about this down-toearth, talented newcomer. Greeted by an interactive canvas dispensing Casamigos tequila shots (a mustsee), we discussed his career, what he loves about the Nashville community, and what is in store next.

TNE: You seem to be an all-around “guy’s guy,” with a love for surfing, golf, and cars. How did you grow to love these things and how do these interests get incorporated and showcased in your work?

ES: Growing up in San Diego with an artist mother, I was actually doing needle point and crafting. However, my Dad was a World Champion skateboarder and avid surfer. My Dad was very involved with Rusty surfboardsI have surfed as long as I can remember. My Dad and I spend a lot of time on our Harleys as well. This is what I have always known. I draw a lot of inspiration from those experiences and how a painting can capture the thrill of so many sports.

TNE: What factors influenced your development in terms of how you arrived at your painting style?

ES: My mother had a paint brush in my hand at a young age. She taught the master’s program for Fine Art at SDSU. She was a huge influence in developing my style and embracing my mistakes as “happy little accidents.”

TNE: What has been your favorite commissioned piece of work?

ES: I recently completed a Kobe Bryant piece, and while it was not commissioned, it was the most emotional piece I have ever created and one that I am incredibly proud of. I feel like I was able to honor him and his spirit through my icon collection.

TNE: It has been said your work is heavily influenced by your own experiences, what is currently inspiring your work?

ES: I have painted everything from motorcycles to sports cars to professional athletes and musicians. I am currently influenced by my surroundings- just driving down Old Hillsboro Road to Leiper’s on a Sunday afternoon has heavily expanded my use of color and scale. More nature around me leads to expanding my use of colors. I grew up on the beach in San Diego and tended to feel safe using blues, while my time in Miami focused on more neon’s- but I now feel myself diving into more earth tones.

Erik Skoldberg's Photographed in his Studio

Alaina Mullin

TNE: You and your wife, Kylie recently relocated to Nashville from San Diego. What made you want to relocate?

ES: I started working with Discovery Land Company on Troubadour and various other projects with Endeavor group, such as the new 1200 Broadway building. These projects really opened my eyes to the incredible business opportunity in the community. My wife and I fell in love with Nashville on our first visit. Something about the energy here immediately felt like home.

TNE: Describe your typical day.

ES: Meditation, coffee with my wife, a run with my golden retriever, Home Depot, and then into the studio. I often break for a workout during the day at BOOTHCAMP. I tend to paint late into the evening, unless a friend or client swings by for some Casamigos Tequila…

TNE: Who was the first artist that really blew your mind?

ES: Gerhard Richter. I was blown away by his scale and use of color. His pieces are massive.

TNE: What do you do when you need a break from creating art?

ES: Working out is my medicine. And for my daily meditation, I have started practicing the Wim Hof Method.

Erik Skoldberg's Studio in the Gulch

Alaina Mullin

TNE: Do you have any rituals before creating a piece?

ES: I tend to create best after a workout and meditation. I need complete privacy and a really good playlist. My best work is created late at night and I also feel most inspired when I am left alone to create.

TNE: What do you consider your greatest career achievement thus far?

ES: This past year I was the official artist for Adidas Super Bowl LIV.

TNE: What is something you would like to do as an artist but haven’t yet?

ES: I would like to work on more corporate hotel projects with large scale installations across the globe and also create a home line.

TNE: How do you cure a creative block?

ES: I build a lot of blank canvases and waste a lot of paint!

Alaina Mullin

TNE: Food in San Diego vs. food in Nashville…What is your verdict?

ES: San Diego has a lot more clean eating options when we are feeling healthy but the food in Nashville is incredible.

TNE: I know we don’t have an ocean or a beach, but how are you and your wife liking life in Nashville? What are your go-to spots and hangouts?

ES: We have found ourselves eating our way through Nashville. From the country fried steak at Husk to the Kayne Prime sushi roll at Virago. On a Sunday you can find us walking our dogs around McCabe Golf Course or taking the motorcycle out to Leiper’s Fork for lunch at 1892.

TNE: What is up next?

ES: Everything. A lot of corporate commissions in the works, notably 1200 Broadway and Troubadour Golf & Field Club who recently opened their downtown lounge at my studio.

Erik Skoldberg's Photographed in his Studio

Alaina Mullin

TNE: What are you checking off your bucket list this year?

ES: My wife and I are finally taking our honeymoon. We have worked nonstop since the day we were married two years ago. Because we work together, it really never stops.