Forbes 30 Under 30 Pursuit

Showcasing my ambitions to be in Forbes 30 Under 30 for Europe 2025 as I am from the UK.

WHY I REALLY WANT TO BE IN FORBES 30 UNDER 30?

I exemplify the innovative spirit and societal impact that the Forbes 30 Under 30 list celebrates. From breaking barriers as an autistic artist to fostering global cultural connections through art and digital content, my achievements resonate as a testament to creativity, resilience, and meaningful influence.

This structure highlights my qualifications with concrete details, achievements, and measurable impact. It balances personal storytelling with professional accomplishments, showing why I am a strong candidate for the list.

It has been my big dream for years to be in Forbes 30 Under 30. I have been doing a Forbes marathon starting from October 2023 showing how much I want to be in Forbes 30 Under 30, to show that I have potential, to be heard, to have my story told and sharing my journey. The Forbes Marathon is on my YouTube channel which you can view on there.

I am a huge thinker, very ambitious, unique, pioneer, role model, hard-worker, rare, innovator and a huge influence in my sector. I am showing a lot of innovation and trying a lot of things that are unique and haven’t been seen before.

I seriously want to be there. I can imagine myself being there. It’s my dream.

It’s my last year to apply for Forbes 30 Under 30 and I won’t be able to apply for it after this deadline due to my age.

As mentioned in my social media, I expressed that I will continue to inspire everybody including with the people with disabilities since I am autistic.

INNOVATOR, ROLE MODEL

FORBES 30 UNDER 30 MARATHON

  • Anime Styled Forbes Logo Drawing

    Pencil Drawing of my Anime Styled Forbes Drawing in my style. Inspired by the anime styled clouds.

    View The Drawing 

  • Anime Styled Forbes Magazine

    I took on the challenge to make a anime styled Forbes Magazine!

  • Why I Want To Be Forbes 30 Under 30?

    I explained why I want to be in Forbes 30 Under 30.

    Video coming soon.

  • Youtube Short Version

    Youtube Short Version of why I want to be in Forbes 30 Under 30.

    Watch The Video 

  • FORBES Logo Redesigned in ANIME Style by a Pro Artist! ( Part 1 )

    I took on the challenge on making an anime style. Watch Part 1.

    Watch Part 1 

  • Forbes Logo Gets an EPIC Anime Makeover! ( Part 2 )

    I took on the challenge on making an anime style. Watch Part 2.

    Watch Part 2 

  • Forbes 30 Under 30 Backers

    All of the verified people who is rooting for me to be in Forbes 30 Under 30.

    As of March 14th 2025.

  • Forbes 30 Under 30 Nomination

    The moment that I have nominated myself for Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe 2025. Finger crossed.

PIONEER, THINKER, AMBITIOUS

IMPACT AND PROOF

1. POTENTIAL:
I have exhibited incredible potential to be included in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. I will break down the reasons why, weaving in my accomplishments, unique qualities, and aspirations to demonstrate my eligibility in detail:

-Trailblazing Achievements in Art
Multi-Award-Winning Career: With over 14 years as an autistic professional fine artist and accolades such as the Collector's Art Prize (2023), Persona Art Honours (2024), International Prize PHOENIX for the Arts (2024) and Top 100 Influential People 2025 Honouree (2024), my body of work speaks volumes about my skill, dedication, and influence in the art world. I go under as Nashīnasu ナシーナス in my art career since 2020.

International Recognition: My pieces have graced group and solo exhibitions globally, showcasing my talent to audiences far beyond my home base in England. Being featured in multiple publications further cements my role as a prominent figure in the art scene.

-Impactful Personal Brand
Nashīnasu ナシーナス: My artist persona reflects not only my connection to Japanese culture but also my ability to merge personal identity with professional branding. This distinct niche sets me apart in a competitive industry.


Global Inspiration: By creating art that reimagines the world with animation, surrealism, and gestural painting, I offer a fresh perspective that resonates with audiences emotionally and spiritually.

-Influence as a Content Creator
Community Building: Through my vlog videos and social media presence, I uplift and connect with my audience by sharing my personal journey, blending anime aesthetics with messages of self-acceptance and positivity. This approach has fostered a supportive, engaged online community.

-Recognition as a Change-Maker
Breaking Barriers: As an artist with autism, I transformed a diagnosis into a strength, becoming an advocate for inclusion, creativity, and empowerment. My journey inspires others to embrace their uniqueness and overcome challenges.
Top 100 Influential People (2024): This title validates my significant impact on art, culture, and society, which aligns with Forbes' emphasis on honouring change-makers who redefine their industries.

-Alignment with Forbes’ Criteria
Entrepreneurial Spirit: My work is more than just art, it’s an enterprise that combines creativity, storytelling, and community engagement.


Cultural Relevance: With my focus on surrealism art and my role as a cultural bridge through Nashīnasu, I reflect the zeitgeist of modern artistic innovation.

Social Impact: My content and personal story challenge stigmas, foster positivity, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, making me a role model for the next generation.

-Ambition and Forward Momentum
Upcoming Features: My participation in the upcoming Vogue Manhattan 2025, art fairs like Artexpo New York and Hamptons Fine Art Fair, and being featured in Vogue Magazine April 2025 Issue to demonstrate my unstoppable trajectory.
Vision for the Future: My aspiration to blend visual storytelling with performance, as seen in my interest in acting and cinematic aesthetics, highlights my multifaceted talent and determination to expand my influence beyond art.

-X-Factor: Relatability and Authenticity
Forbes often highlights individuals who inspire and connect with audiences on a human level. My ability to share my struggles, triumphs, and unique perspective as an artist with autism makes my story not only compelling but also transformative, inspiring and influential.


2. IMPACT AND INNOVATION IN THE CANDIDATE'S INDUSTRY:
Impact:
Elevating Representation: My deeply personal journey is embedded in every stroke of their work. By championing neurodiverse representation in fine arts, I have shared content about embracing uniqueness. My exhibitions, including those at international platforms like the LA Art Show and Artexpo New York, have introduced audiences to the profound narratives of neurodiverse creators.
Global Reach and Inspiration: Through my art brand, Nashīnasu ナシーナス, my influence has transcended borders. I have a supportive community, where I share inspiring content blending anime aesthetics with messages of resilience and self-acceptance. My social platforms serve as safe spaces for others to connect, share, and find encouragement.
Recognition and Influence: My accolades include multiple international awards, such as the Persona Art Honours and the International Prize PHOENIX for the Arts. These accomplishments solidify my place as an influential figure redefining fine art and its impact on society.

-Innovation:
Pioneering Visual Narratives: I blend the precision of graphite with the fluidity of gestural painting and surrealism, creating works that resonate emotionally and visually. My unique style reimagines animation-inspired art into fine art spaces, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Blending Industries: By merging visual storytelling with performance art, I have innovated cross-medium expressions that break traditional artistic boundaries. My vlogs, which combine cinematic aesthetics with uplifting messages, showcase a fusion of media that reflects their artistry and humanity.

-Metrics of Success:
Multiple accolades, publications and garnering international acclaim.
Featured in top publications, including Vogue and Contemporary Art Collectors.

-Vision for the Future: My ambition extends beyond personal success; I aim to create an enduring legacy by reshaping the art world into an inclusive space that celebrates differences. My dream collaboration with Tekken reflects their commitment to integrating fine art with beloved cultural touch-points, making art a bridge for generations.
Through this potent combination of impact and innovation, I exemplify what it means to lead an industry forward, embodying the qualities that define Forbes 30 Under 30 honourees.


3. SOCIAL IMPACT AND SCALE TO BE ON FORBES 30 UNDER 30:
To demonstrate social impact and scale worthy of being featured on Forbes 30 Under 30, I would highlight a cohesive narrative that ties together my achievements, influence, and the ripple effects of my work. For example:
Through my multidisciplinary artistry and influencer presence, I’ve built a global platform that fuses creativity with social empowerment. As Nashīnasu ナシーナス, my art, characterized by its surrealism and animation-inspired aesthetics, has captivated audiences worldwide, sparking conversations around individuality and neurodivergence. Over the past decade, I’ve hosted over 20 exhibitions, with works featured in international galleries and art fairs like Artexpo New York and the Hamptons Fine Art Fair. My influence extends beyond traditional art, with my social media platforms creating a vibrant, inclusive space for my community that are inspired to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions. My impact has garnered media attention, with features in Vogue Manhattan and recognition as one of the Top 100 Influential People in 2025. By scaling my vision and using art as a universal language for change, I aim to redefine what it means to create not just for self-expression, but for global impact.

COMMENTS FROM THE BACKERS

  • KRISTY

  • DALE

  • TIMOTHY

  • STORMIE

  • NIDA

  • TINA

  • SHEK - MY BUSINESS PARTNER

4. QUALITY OF NOMINATIONS, INCLUDING CONCRETE DETAILS ABOUT ACHIEVEMENTS

-Exceptional Artistic Achievements:
Multi-Award-Winning Artist: Recognized internationally for blending animation, surrealism, and gestural painting into innovative, visually captivating pieces.
Accolades Include:
-Winning Drawing Competition (2011)
-Jack Petchey Award For Outstanding Achiever (2011)
-The Seoyun Jung Memorial Award For Endeavour (2012)
-Collector's Art Prize (2023)
-Persona Art Honours (2024)
-International Prize PHOENIX for the Arts Winner (2024)
-2025 Visionaries: Artists Shaping The Future: Creative Catalysts For Change (2024)
-Named One of the Top 100 Influential People 2025 (2024)

Over 14 years of fine arts mastery, exhibited in prestigious galleries and events worldwide, such as the:

Menier Gallery (defunct), UK (2016)
Brain Cake, Spain, Barcelona (2022 - 2023)
Tokyo Tower Art Fair, Tokyo (2023),

Upcoming exhibitions including:

-Artexpo New York, USA (2025)

-Hamptons Fine Art Fair (2025)

-Red Dot Miami (2025)

-LA Art Show, USA (2026)

-Pioneering a Unique Niche:

Creator of the Nashīnasu ナシーナス brand, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, anime, and cultural symbolism. Successfully bridges fine art with pop culture to captivate diverse audiences globally. Developed a re-imagination process that integrates elements of storytelling and surrealism, offering fresh perspectives in the art world. Garnered critical acclaim from industry leaders and collectors, with works featured in top-tier publications like Vogue Magazine and showcased at major art shows.

-Empowering Community Through Art and Advocacy:

Leveraged personal experiences as an autistic artist to inspire and uplift others, promoting messages of self-acceptance, creativity, and resilience. Built a thriving social media community, connecting fans worldwide through uplifting, anime-inspired content and vlog series. Hosting livestreams, empowering people to embrace their uniqueness and develop their artistic voice.

-Cultural Impact: Innovated the integration of art with digital platforms, producing vlogs blending fashion, lifestyle, and storytelling, reaching millions with evergreen, impactful content. Positioned as a role model for underrepresented creators, highlighted by public speaking engagements and features in international forums.

5. VISIONARY GOALS AND INFLUENCE:

Actively shaping the future of art by exploring collaborations between traditional and digital art spaces. Aims to expand the Nashīnasu brand into new industries, including film and animation, to continue pushing boundaries in storytelling and visual aesthetics.

-Strong personal brand and online presence, including social media 

-Distinctive Personal Brand:

Nashīnasu ナシーナス represents a fusion of artistic excellence and cultural resonance, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, anime, and surrealist art. The brand reflects my journey as an autistic artist, promoting themes of resilience, self-expression, and empowerment. Known for creating uplifting, cinematic, and anime-inspired content, my brand resonates deeply with a global audience, offering a unique blend of fine art and digital storytelling. Positioned as a thought leader in blending traditional art forms with modern media, my brand stands out for its authenticity, inclusivity, and relatability.

-Thriving Social Media Presence: Built a highly engaged community of over 35k followers across all social medias through consistent, high-quality content that showcases behind-the-scenes art processes, motivational insights, and storytelling that connects emotionally with audiences.-Data-Driven Growth and Engagement:Achieved viral success with posts such as:

[Lion Drawing: A painting reel that received 885K views and 86.3K likes.]

[Viral Heart Drawing: A drawing reel that received just over 31M views and 1.9M likes.]

Proven track record of collaboration with leading brands in art, fashion, such as [MIYDIY, Quantastic, Christie’s Art Auction House], further enhancing brand credibility.

-Impactful Online Initiatives:

Hosted live streams to connect the audiences in real time. Launched art prints, apparel, memberships, merchandise as of now. Advocated for mental health and autism awareness through videos, using personal stories and art as a medium to foster understanding and acceptance.

-Cultural and Digital Influence: Recognized by major publications and platforms such as Vogue Magazine (upcoming) and Top 100 Influential People 2025, cementing Nathan’s position as a trailblazer in the creative and influencer spaces.

6. PRESS COVERAGE AND MEDIA PRESENCE 

Nathan Downie (Nashīnasu ナシーナス): Multi-Award-Winning and Critically Acclaimed Fine Artist and Influential Leader in the Arts. I have established a remarkable reputation within the art world through my innovative fusion of graphite pencil, conte, charcoal, surrealism, and gestural painting. Over the course of 14 years, I have grown into a multidisciplinary artist recognized for my groundbreaking works in the fine arts, having received international acclaim for my unique approach to visual storytelling. My career is a testament to resilience and creativity, with my art being featured in numerous prestigious solo and group exhibitions, including high-profile events such as the upcoming Artexpo New York, the Hamptons Fine Art Fair, Red Dot Miami, and the LA Art Show. My unique ability to create immersive art experiences that blend traditional techniques with contemporary animation has captivated global audiences.

NUMBERS PROOF

  • 14+ Years as a Multi Award-Winning Fine Artist

  • Featured in 10+ Major Publications (Including Top 100 Influential People 2025)

  • 10+ Exhibitions (Solo & Group Shows)

  • International Recognition in 10+ Countries (Including Japan and USA)

  • 12+ Prestigious Art Awards (Including Collector’s Art Prize and Persona Art Honours)

  • 4+ Volunteering (Including Teenage Cancer Trust Society)

  • 790,000+ Views Across My Personal Brand and My Art Personal Brand Youtube Channels

  • 30M+ Views on Viral Heart Drawing on my art personal brand,Nashīnasu ナシーナス

    View The video 

7. GOOGLEABILITY AND VERIFIABLE ACHIEVEMENTS:

My achievements have been consistently recognized by prominent media outlets and organizations. My work has been featured in top publications such as Vogue Manhattan, where I will also appear in the April 2025 issue, continuing showcasing my growing influence in the art industry. This visibility has led to my recognition as one of the Top 100 Influential People 2025, further cementing my status as a leader in the arts. Additionally, my accolades are a clear reflection of my dedication to my craft and my ability to make a profound impact on the global art community.

Notable awards include:

-Collector’s Art Prize 2023 for my outstanding contribution to contemporary art

-Persona Art Honours 2024 for my innovative blending of traditional painting techniques with graphite pencil

-International Prize PHOENIX for the Arts Winner 2024, recognizing my excellence in artistic innovation.

-A significant feature in the upcoming prestigious Vogue Magazine (April 2025, New Faces), amplifying my influence in the fashion and entertainment sectors.

-Top 100 Influential People 2025 (2024), recognised as one of a handful of the UK’s most successful and influential people.

-2025 Visionaries: Artists Shaping The Future: Creative Catalysts For Change, 2025 Innovators, in the Arts Scene. Pioneers of Tomorrow's World. Exploring the Power of Art for Social Impact.

-Jack Petchey Award For Outstanding Achiever, for outstanding achievements in art and music during my time at art school.

-The Seoyun Jung Memorial Award For Endeavour, a tribute award for endeavour during my first year in college.  

Awards Include:

2011 | Winner Drawing Competition at Secondary School

2011 | Jack Petchey Award For Outstanding Achiever

2012 | The Seoyun Jung Memorial Tribute Award For Endeav

2015 | Drawing Art Prize Runner’s Up

2023 | Collector's Art Prize

2023 | Tokyo Tower Art Fair Participation Certificate

2024 | Global Art Virtuoso: Elite Artistic Career Achievement Award

2024 | International Prize Phoenix For The Arts Winner

2024 | 2025 Visionaries: Artists Shaping The Future: Creative Catalysts For Change

2024 | Persona Art Honours

2024 | The Best Contemporary Masters


Publications Include:

2023 | Contemporary Art Curator Magazine

2023 | Contemporary Art Collectors Magazine

2023 | Tokyo Tower Art Fair

2024 | Contemporary Art Station

2024 | Contemporary Art Curator Magazine

2024 | Contemporary Art Collectors Magazine

2024 | Effetto Arte Fondazione

2024 | Onboart Exhibition

2024 | Prestigious Art Catalog - Persona Art Honours (November 2024)

Interviews:

2023 | Interviewed by Contemporary Art Collector Award Magazine

2024 | Noble Art Horizons: Conversations & Visions Above

Collaborations Include:

Christie’s Art Auction House

Contemporary Art Collector

Contemporary Art Curator

Contemporary Art Station

Quantastic

MIYDIY brand collaboration - also their brand ambassador (Upcoming)

Other Achievements: 30 million views on the viral heart drawing on Art Brand

2020 - NHS Nurse Tribute Drawing - To show my support for NHS and health service workers during the covid pandemic.

2023 - Present - Tekken Character Drawing Marathon (Ongoing)

2022 - Teenage Cancer Trust Society - Push-Ups Challenge

2024 - Teenage Cancer Trust Society - Push-Ups Challenge

These accolades are searchable and verifiable through trusted sources, ranging from major art fairs to high-profile magazines, and can be cross-referenced with the official award websites and media outlets that have covered my journey.

Credible Backers & Partnerships: I have built an impressive network of credible backers and collaborators, further strengthening my case for recognition on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list.

Notable partnerships and endorsements include:

Vogue Manhattan 2025: I will appear in Vogue Magazine’s April 2025, “New Faces” issue, a significant milestone for any artist, demonstrating recognition from one of the world’s leading fashion and lifestyle publications.

Major Art Fairs: I will be featured at respected events like:

Artexpo New York, Red Dot Miami, and LA Art Show between 2025 and 2026. These fairs consistently feature top talent and serve as platforms for emerging and established artists to showcase my work on a global stage.

Collaborations with Renowned Brands:

Over the years, I have collaborated with brands in the art and influencer industries. These endorsements serve to amplify my reputation within the cultural sector.

Art Galleries & Museums and Virtual Galleries: My work has been displayed at notable galleries in Europe, North America, and Asia. This wide international exposure is testament to my influence and credibility in the global art market.

Googleability & Media Presence:

My online presence reflects my credibility and accomplishments. With thousands of mentions across media outlets, social media platforms, and art blogs, my work is frequently discussed in both established and niche channels.

My work has been widely covered by art critics and the audience in reputable online publications. My social media presence is a reflection of this recognition, with more than 35,000 followers across platforms like Instagram and YouTube.

My autism diagnosis at the age of 2 and personal growth journey have been an essential part of my narrative, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and find strength in their differences. I leverage my platform not only to share my art but also to foster a supportive and uplifting community for fans and followers worldwide.Future Goals and Vision for the Arts:

Looking ahead, my ambition continues to grow. My dream project involves expanding my artistic influence into the fashion industry, creating exclusive collections that blend my art with wearable pieces. My growing influence across industries positions me as a key figure to watch in the coming years, especially as my participation in Vogue Manhattan 2025 further elevates my profile as a leading creative force.I stand as a beacon of inspiration in the arts, with verifiable achievements and an undeniable presence in the global spotlight. My story is one of resilience, innovation, and commitment to self-expression, making me a natural candidate for inclusion in Forbes 30 Under 30, where my legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists and creators.This example leverages both my verifiable achievements and Googleable presence across reputable media outlets, exhibitions, awards, and recognitions. It also highlights my growing influence, which is a key factor for being considered for Forbes 30 Under 30.

Why do I seriously want to be Forbes 30 Under 30?:

I exemplify the innovative spirit and societal impact that the Forbes 30 Under 30 list celebrates. From breaking barriers as an autistic artist to fostering global cultural connections through art and digital content, my achievements resonate as a testament to creativity, resilience, and meaningful influence.

I have structured highlights of my qualifications with concrete details, achievements, and measurable impact. It balances personal storytelling with professional accomplishments, showing why I am a strong candidate for the list. It has been my big dream for years to be in Forbes 30 Under 30. I have been doing a Forbes Marathon starting from October 2023 showing how much I want to be in Forbes 30 Under 30, to show that I have potential, to be heard, to have my story told and sharing my journey. The Forbes Marathon playlist is on my YouTube channel and on my website: nathandownie.com, which you can view on there. I mentioned how much I want to be in Forbes 30 Under 30 in my interviews. I am a huge thinker, very ambitious, unique, pioneer, role model, hard-worker, rare, innovator and a huge influence in my sector. I am showing a lot of innovation and trying a lot of things that are unique. I seriously want to be there. I can imagine myself being there. It’s my dream. It’s my last year to apply for Forbes 30 Under 30 and I won’t be able to apply again for it due to my age. I am 29 and will turn 30 in October. As mentioned in my social media, I expressed that I will continue to inspire everybody including with the people with disabilities since I am autistic. I made a big statement in 2024 and achieved so much. I show incredible potential for Forbes 30 Under 30.

As an artist who cares about the environment and sustainability is important to me as I know that my decisions can have an impact on the planet's well being. I make art that lasts and use eco packaging for all shipments to reduce waste. My art prints are sourced from "theprintspace," a carbon printing service based in the UK since 2019. They support energy initiatives to offset their carbon footprint and provide eco conscious packaging choices. When I paint I opt for water oil paints that require water with no need for harsh chemicals, like white spirit or turpentine. This helps to lessen VOC emissions and chemical waste. This decision improves sustainability. Promotes better health and safety in my work setting. I felt privileged to take part in the "Planet Future" showcase following my victory in the Collectors Art Prize contest demonstrating my dedication to artistry. 

Being featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 is a top goal for me. Seeing some of my favourite people included inspires me to imagine myself among them. Achieving this would not only be a personal milestone but also a powerful way to bring greater recognition to individuals with learning disabilities.