Nicole is a contemporary artist whose work reflects the vibrant spirit of her environment. Originally from northern California, her artistic journey began in her youth amid the sunlit landscapes of California, where early experiences first nurtured her creative drive. Her passion deepened during high school art exploration, setting the foundation for a lifelong engagement with the creative process.

Her path took an unexpected turn after a brief period in college when she joined the U.S. Navy, serving for four years. This time was followed by the demands of marriage, parenting, schooling and work, which temporarily shifted her focus away from painting, although she was always doing something creative (quilting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, scrapbooking, just to name a few).

As her children grew and left for college and careers of their own, Nicole found herself with more time and space to reconnect with her art. The sudden loss of her brother and mother prompted a return to painting, providing a therapeutic outlet and source of comfort. Immersing herself once again, she honed her skills through extensive practice and varied coursework.

Nicole’s work is inspired by the natural beauty of coastal New England, where she now lives. The region’s historic buildings, peaceful landscapes, and lively fishing and lobstering communities inform the authenticity and vitality of her art. She also embraces abstract painting as a means to explore and challenge her creative boundaries, enjoying the freedom and spontaneity the style offers.

Her artistic influences include the old masters Baptiste, Van Gogh, and Fritz Thaulow, yet her style remains uniquely her own. She was an active showing member of Lemont Block Collective in Brunswick, Saltwater Artists Gallery in New Harbor and Meetinghouse Arts Gallery in Freeport.  She won 1st place in Painting at the Brunswick Outdoor Arts Festival in 2021 and 2023.  She has participated in many state-wide art fairs & festivals including Makers on Maine, Freeport Fall Festival and many others.

Nicole draws inspiration from the wide range of her life experiences, seeing her art as a form of personal expression and social reflection. Her creations embody her resilience and beliefs, and she aspires to leave a little love in each piece.  As she continues to grow artistically, her work remains a vivid and evolving reflection of her life’s journey.