We’re excited to introduce you to Vancouver abstract artist Nicole Melnicky. Check out the interview below to get to know Nicole and her artwork a little more. Enjoy!
Vancouver Artist Nicole Melnicky
How would you describe your artistic style?
Conceptual & Contemporary Abstraction
What’s the main inspiration for your art?
Expressing queer pride, my sexuality, and Who I Am openly 🏳️🌈
What is the biggest goal you try to achieve with your art?
I want to create more awareness and openness around sexuality, queerness and LGTBQ2S+ identities. My ultimate goal is to be a voice of amplification for LGTBQ+ rights and politics, and I do this through my work, and by staying focused on my soul purpose and mission.
What’s your favourite thing about being an abstract artist?
I love that there are so many versatile ways to use paint. And, of course new art supplies!
Why abstract art and not other mediums? Have you always created abstract art or did you start out creating other styles?
I have been an abstract artist for as long as I can remember, whether that has taken shape through painting, textiles or sculpture. It just feels the most “ME!” and that’s why I gravitate towards it. I want to come to the studio excited to create new things, and abstraction does that for me. It’s forever been at the heart of my work, and forever will be.
If you could describe your art in three words, what would they be?
Vivid, Empowered, and Flirty!
What’s one thing people might not know about you and/or your art journey so far?
For me, art is about self-discovery, self-expression, self-love, and is the journey of the soul. I am a spiritual person and I continue to stay connected to my higher self. My artwork has many themes running through it conceptually, and often times involves multi-layered and complex themes. However, that’s why I stay so engaged in creating it. Not everyone is going to understand your journey or ‘why’ you create the art that you do, but it’s all about trusting yourself, your voice, and your own authentic vision.
Did you always know you’d be an artist or how has your art journey progressed?
I have always been an artist; I’ve been creating and making things since I was a kid. Whether that was painting, ceramics, drawing, dance, or dress up. I have found that art for me is a way of being, living, and ultimate form of self-expression.
I would like to share that there were a few years in my early 20’s where I didn’t create a lot of art at all. This changed when the pandemic hit and I found myself in complete isolation. During this time, at the end of 2020, something just switched in me, and I realized that I had to start creating again, in order to be happy. I came across the quote by R.S. Grey “She believed she could, so she did.” This quote still resonates with me to this day, as it empowered me to step into my creative journey, and I’m so glad that I did, because I wouldn’t be Who I Am today.
In your opinion, what’s the most important personal characteristic needed to embark on a career as an artist?
I think a lot of times people look at artists and think “they are so lucky.” I’d like to break that notion because there is nothing easy about being an artist. It’s a challenging path, it takes a lot of hard work, and often times is quite stressful. Not only is being an artist a full-time job, but it requires 100% of your time and focus. It’s not a traditional trajectory by any means . Building a strong sense of community, and surrounding yourself with individuals that support you is essential. The main keys to success is to have a fierce vision, and a strong sense of willpower, motivation, determination, and perseverance in order to achieve your goals.
What advice would you give up and coming abstract artists?
Keep creating, and don’t throw anything out. Sometimes an old artwork that didn’t turn out can be repurposed and turned into something new.
Do you have any favourite podcasts or books that you love and that have contributed to your journey as an artist?
I love the book “Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear” by Elizabeth Gilbert. I read this book right before I started on my creative journey at the end of 2020. It helped me overcome this idea of “fear,” what that is, and how that holds you back from the life that you desire.
What’s your most fulfilling and enjoyable experience as an artist so far?
My favourite artistic experiences have been through my participation in Artist Residencies, Art Fairs, and completing my MFA degree! All of these experiences have impacted my work and practice in many different ways. Art Residencies empower your ability to value your creative time. Art Fairs allow you to share your work and generate thoughtful and meaningful conversations with others. My MFA degree at OCAD University empowered me to change the direction of my career, and reconnect to my creative self.
Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?
I see myself creating and exhibiting my work internationally!
What do you love most about abstract art?
Do you have any favourite quotes?
“If you’re going to try, go all the way. Otherwise, don’t even start. This could mean losing girlfriends, wives, relatives and maybe even your mind. It could mean not eating for three or four days. It could mean freezing on a park bench. It could mean jail. It could mean derision. It could mean mockery–isolation. Isolation is the gift. All the others are a test of your endurance, of how much you really want to do it. And, you’ll do it, despite rejection and the worst odds. And it will be better than anything else you can imagine. If you’re going to try, go all the way. There is no other feeling like that. You will be alone with the gods, and the nights will flame with fire. You will ride life straight to perfect laughter. It’s the only good fight there is.”
― Charles Bukowski
To learn more about Vancouver abstract artist Nicole Melnicky and see more of her paintings, head to her website here.
To discover even more British Columbia abstract artists, click here.
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