Nishant Jain

Nishant Jain is an artist, writer, and podcaster recognized for his contributions to urban sketching and visual storytelling. With a background that includes a BTech in mechanical engineering, an MSc in biomechanical design, and doctoral studies in neuroscience, Jain ultimately pursued a career in storytelling and the creative arts.

After relocating to the United States, Jain began carrying a sketchbook to better understand his surroundings. Initially hesitant to sketch in public, he developed a practice of creating quick, discreet sketches in a small sketchbook. As the Sneaky Artist, Jain documents city life with a sketchbook and fountain pen, focusing on the diversity of modern urban environments and the ways in which strangers coexist in shared spaces. His art style is shaped by the need to draw quickly with minimal supplies and a desire to observe and appreciate urban life.

Jain is the author of "Make (Sneaky) Art," a book that offers strategies for building a sketchbook habit rooted in mindfulness and observation. The book serves as both a guide to drawing on location and a method for engaging with the world and reclaiming attention spans. Jain has also received the MIPA2020 Design Award for the total book design of his self-published coffee-table book "SneakyArt of Eau Claire."

Through workshops, a newsletter, "The SneakyArt Podcast," and social media, Jain shares his approach to observing and documenting life in real time, encouraging artists to embrace simplicity and find meaning in daily sketches. He has built a substantial following on Instagram and travels widely to give talks and lessons, including appearances at events such as the Aspen Ideas Festival. Jain has covered the Colorado edition of the ZEE JLF literary festival as a Sneaky Artist, creating a collage of art and impressions from the event. His work and ideas have been featured in news media worldwide. Jain’s journey from neuroscience doctoral studies to artist and author highlights the impact of curiosity and the value of slowing down to observe and draw the world.