Talking Dirty

Hand-signed limited edition wall sculpture by Nic Joly.

The 2026 instalment in Nic Joly’s The Next Chapter collection marks a meaningful conclusion to a body of work created to celebrate Nic’s connection with his collectors over the course of his decade with Castle Fine Art. It explores thought-provoking topics while acknowledging the lessons and experiences that have shaped Nic creatively and personally. Deeply rooted in reflection, it’s inspired by the embrace of the belief that the future is not separated from the past but rather informed by it.

Not taking itself too seriously, ‘Talking Dirty’ depicts couples caught in compromising cheeky poses on a bar of soap. The irony Joly is famous for is achieved with the soap. Highly glossy and pristine, the soap is meant to scrub things clean, yet in this scene it’s hosting moments that are anything but proper – it’s clean and frozen in time, while the handmade figures on top suggest the opposite, intimacy, mess and mischief. This brilliant contrast makes the artwork funny, oddly charming and perhaps a little awkward.

Mastered over the years, Nic’s depictions of life’s joys, trials and relationships have long enchanted viewers. With their meticulous detail and unfolding narratives, he blends social commentary with playful charm, inviting us to explore his tiny, whimsical worlds.

This artwork is part of Joly’s The Next Chapter collection. Find out more about Nic Joly here.