Hanging out with Nikki

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi
Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi
From a small coastal town in New Zealand, Nikki captivated us with her beautiful prints.
She focuses on the spiritual side of a woman’s journey, as well as using mother nature as an inspiration to create her artworks.
@namiko_native_design
Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

Tell us a little bit about yourself 

My name is Nikki and I am from a small little coastal town on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand/Aotearoa.
I am currently on the East Coast of the North Island. I love to spend my time surfing, camping and travelling and of course, creating.

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

How would you describe your creative style

I love exploring the mystical side of things, so there is always a bit of symbolism, spiritualism, ceremony and nature worked into my pieces. I also love a retro colour pallet with a retro-looking appearance. It’s an interesting mix!

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

How did your journey towards becoming an illustrator begin?

My creative journey is constantly evolving. I was a kid who was always creating. From making paper, jewellery and marbling to candle making, I’ve done it all. But as I started travelling, illustration was the easiest to take on the road with me. All I needed was a pad and pen, and now I have my Ipad.

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

How do you see your personality reflected in your artwork?

I’m a surfer, so lot of my art is a reflection of the surf culture and also around my spirituality.

 

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

The woman’s body is such a predominant part of your artwork.
Why did you decide to focus on that? 

Gosh, I just adore the female form. It feels beautiful to draw it.

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

What part of the creating process do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy the whole process. I love to get inspired and excited, then I grab my pen to start creating and just see where it goes from there.

 

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Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi 

What is the weirdest artwork you’ve ever done? 

I just had a flashback of my friend making a costume for me to wear for the Wearable Art Fashion Show.
It was a flowing dress that took up the whole stage, made entirely from seaweed with a few paua shells as a bra. 

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

Do you have any mentors/inspirational artists?

I adore visionary art and the Tibetan Buddhist art. I have recently been in love with Remedios Varo work.

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

Nikki and Je Ne sais Quoi

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