Today we’d like to introduce you to Nichole Nicolet.
Hi, Nichole; we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My artistic journey began in Iowa, where my love for the arts took root during my early years spent in the art room, riding horses, and exploring my grandfather’s farm. These experiences shaped my nostalgic style, creating a foundation for my artistic expression. As I continued my artistic exploration, I had the opportunity to study at the Savannah College of Art and Design, further honing my skills. My preferred mediums, including graphite, charcoal, watercolor, and fabric painting, have become essential tools in bringing my vision to life. I find inspiration in the classic and vintage, aiming to evoke a sense of nostalgia in those who view my art. I’m captivated by objects, people, and places with time marks in my creative process. The choice of mediums, such as charcoal, graphite, ink, and watercolor, contributes to the vintage feel that defines my pieces. Transforming old books into cherished artworks is a way for me to give them new purpose and life, creating ageless and time-honored masterpieces. My artistic journey is a personal narrative of nostalgia, skill development, and a commitment to capturing the enduring charm of classic and vintage aesthetics. Through my art, I hope to provide nostalgia to those who experience it, inviting them into a world of timeless beauty.
Please talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned. Looking back, is it easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been a challenging road. Like any creative journey, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges. One of the significant hurdles has been navigating the balance between different aspects of my artistic business. Learning how to manage and divide my time effectively among art creation, social media engagement, and content creation has been a continuous learning curve. I hyperfocus on one aspect at a time, which, while allowing for deep concentration, also poses the challenge of neglecting other crucial elements of my business. Figuring out a work/life balance has been the hardest to crack. It has been about finding the right rhythm to dedicate ample time to each aspect without sacrificing my work’s quality or overall well-being. Despite the challenges, these experiences have been valuable lessons in time management, prioritization, and maintaining a holistic approach to my artistic endeavors. Each hurdle has contributed to my growth as an artist and entrepreneur, shaping my creative process and ability to navigate the multifaceted aspects of an artistic business.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As an artist based in Austin, Texas, I specialize in drawing and painting on vintage book pages, infusing new life into these aged materials. I’m known for my distinctive nostalgic style, with my preferred mediums of graphite, charcoal, watercolor, and acrylic painting. What sets me apart is the unique use of book pages as the background for my art. I take pride in giving these pages a new life and purpose, incorporating their deeper meaning into each piece. The transformation of old books into cherished artworks is not just a creative choice but a deliberate effort to infuse my creations with a sense of agelessness and time-honored aesthetics. I am most proud of the ability to capture the timeless beauty found in classic and vintage elements while adding depth by incorporating the history and meaning behind each book page. This blend of personal narrative, artistic skill, and a unique approach to materials distinguishes my art in the creative landscape.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and any essential lessons or epiphanies you can share?
Indeed, the COVID-19 crisis has been a challenging yet transformative period for me as I started my business during this unprecedented time. The limitations on in-person connections posed a unique hurdle, emphasizing the importance of social media and the significance of building a solid online presence and making local connections. During my trials of launching my business amid the pandemic, I realized the critical role of a local print shop. While online print shops offer convenience, I, as an artist, discovered the value of having more control over the printing process. The ability to personally proof my prints in a local print shop ensured the quality of my prints and addressed the issue of damaged canvases encountered with online services.
Simultaneously, the pandemic underscored the importance of social media as a powerful tool for connecting with my audience. Establishing and maintaining a robust online presence became essential for reaching fellow art enthusiasts and potential clients. Utilizing social media platforms allowed me to showcase my work, engage with my audience, and navigate the challenges of restricted in-person interactions. The pandemic taught me valuable lessons in adaptability, the significance of local partnerships, and the crucial role of a solid online presence. Building relationships with a local print shop improved the quality of my prints. At the same time, focusing on social media provided a vital avenue for connecting with the art community and fostering business growth during these trying times.
Contact Info:
- Website: nicholenicolet.com
- Instagram: @nicholenicolet
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdQiLAaMUY0E-BFwLK2fPPg
