Nathan Kostechko is a talented Southern California- based artist, whom we are so fortunate to be collaborating with.
On March 20, 2024, Nathan was involved in a terrible car accident, resulting in a broken hip and the loss of his dog, Trip. To support Nathan during this difficult time, we're offering a limited edition collection showcasing his artwork, with 100% of the net proceeds going directly to him.
How are you feeling both physically and emotionally since the accident?
It’s been a little over 3 months since my accident, and my physical state has undergone many changes. Luckily, the pain has subsided in the injured area; it’s not as severe but still present. Pain has begun to spread to other areas: my good hip aches from bearing most of the weight, I have back pain, and my calves ache, among other things. Not being able to use my right leg and putting weight on the opposite side has made me feel crooked. All in all, I am much better than I was initially. Emotionally, I am doing well. I have a great support group with family and friends. I do miss the everyday regular activities. It’s surprising how much effort everything requires when you're injured.
Can you tell us about the accident and how it has impacted you?
The accident caused a complete 180-degree change in my life. I've had to learn how to sit still, slow down, be more patient, and realize how lucky I am to have built the life I have. I had set myself up well, which allowed me to handle everything that came with it.
How has this experience influenced or changed your perspective on your artwork?
Being forced to stay home and heal has made me realize that making art is what my life is all about. I create because I have to, because I want to—I love every aspect of it. Waking up, making coffee, grabbing my walker to hobble out to my studio, and sitting down to stare at the work from the previous day before jumping back in to escape the world and forget about my current state—it’s a saving grace.
Have you found any inspiration in this challenging time?
I find inspiration in every moment: diving into my book collection, studying paintings from my favorite artists, phone calls with friends, sitting in the back of my truck at the beach watching people suit up to go spearfishing, seeing swarms of pelicans fly by, and relaxing in my sauna, thinking about what I want to paint next.
What has the recovery process been like for you? How has it affected your ability to create?
I started physical therapy about a month after the accident and go multiple times a week. Each session, we work on new exercises and different therapies to wake up my leg, reduce inflammation, and build strength. The injury slows me down in the studio; simple tasks become much harder and everything takes more time. I'm limited in what I can do, but I've found ways to make it work.
Are there any specific challenges you've faced during your recovery that you'd like to share?
The biggest challenge is managing my financial situation and not digging myself into a hole, not giving up on my craft, and not playing the victim. One thing that has helped me, and I keep telling myself, is 'this didn’t happen to me, it happened for me.
How has your artistic community helped you during this time?
The community has helped me continue to do what I love and support my life. I owe it all to them.
Have you received any unexpected or particularly meaningful support that has helped you cope?
All the friends who have reached out, come by to hang out and spend time with me, brought food, made phone calls, and checked in—this has been beautiful. The most important support came from my parents; without them, I would have been absolutely screwed. They went above and beyond in every possible way. I can’t thank them enough for all they have done. We created a GoFundMe, to which a lot of people donated. I was completely blown away by all the donations and support. I am forever grateful to every individual who donated to the cause and have so much love for all of them.
How do you envision your artistic journey moving forward after this experience?
Oddly enough, this has shown me that my art practice works well. I've questioned it in the past, but it has been effective during this time without being able to tattoo. Once I am able to tattoo again, I will approach it differently. I plan to take more time with each client and realize I can take on fewer projects, spending more time on each one. I want to see how deeply I can delve into each tattoo, expanding the possibilities and enhancing the quality of my tattoo work.
Are there any new projects or themes you're eager to explore in your upcoming work?
I am creating larger works and taking my time with each painting. Similar to tattooing, I am pushing my painting process to new levels. I want every aspect of my creative process to expand and be the best it can be.
What lessons have you learned about resilience or creativity through this experience?
The human body is magnificent; it can withstand some insanely traumatic events, both physically and mentally. As long as you stay positive and determined, you can heal and end up better than you were before.
Is there any advice you would give to other artists facing similar challenges?
Don’t fall into the wormhole of your mind with self doubt.
Has creating art played a role in your healing process? If so, how?
Creating art has played the main role in my healing process; it gives me purpose and life.
Shop Nathan's collection here.
Follow along with Nathan here.
Contribute to Nathan's gofundme here.
