26TH August 2019

Q & A WITH NICOLETTE

I didn’t really know what to expect, but the party was a creative space in itself. I really liked how wrangler works with and embraces different cultures and expressions of art.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a 26 year old practicing artist and screen printer currently living in the sunshine coast, Queensland, Australia.

If you had to describe yourself in 5 words what would they be?

Quirky, creative, upfront, ambitious, easy-going

You hand painted designs on our jackets at our party in Byron recently, how was the experience?

I didn’t really know what to expect, but the party was a creative space in itself. I really liked how wrangler works with and embraces different cultures and expressions of art. I met a bunch of cool cats, the performances were awesome and the whole atmosphere was vining with flavour. I had a great time!

How did you get into art?

It really just happened. I had no interest in art or direction really throughout high school. I took some drawing classes after school and my parents wanted me to study, so art is what I flowed with.

As it turns out it became my passion, and as I developed as a person my interests in creativity enhanced. I feel pretty lucky to have found it.

Is it your full time gig?

It’s moving in that direction, and I’m pretty damn happy about it. My job as a screen printer is creative in itself, and I practice my own art on a daily basis. I hope to soon develop a website with art, prints, shirts and merchandise as well as expand myself into street art and murals.

What do you love about it?

The power of expression. That I can create anything I want to, something from nothing .mostly to allow people to think and feel outside of the norm, and put a spark into the day.

What do you find challenging?

There are always challenges. I’d say mostly lack of time, sleep and money ha-ha, but I think that’s pretty standard for any developing artist.

How would you describe your style?

It’s hard to say it’s constantly changing, I appreciate such a range of artistic styles that all greatly influence me. I’d say consistently, visuals with bold use of colour and strange confrontational visuals would be my definitive style.

I also practice modern art mostly portraits in an expressionistic style, which usually reflect the rawness of a person, place or moment.

Who are your main inspirations/influences?

I wouldn’t say I have particular selected influences. I take inspiration from many different sources and artists. My inspiration grows from an idea. Anything different and strange usually catches my eye, and bold use of colours such as pop culture, and street art greatly influence me.

I’d have to say my greatest influence however, is music. I can’t function without it, they work hand in hand for me.

What’s your creative process? Does it change?

It’s a whole lot of constantly changing chaos. I have lists of ideas everywhere and uncompleted works taking over my house, but it really depends what I am working on and what style is developing. I usually have brief ideas and use references to enhance these ideas, and change and develop as the paintings create themselves.

You also hit up Splendour in the Grass when you were in Byron Bay – how was it?

It was awesome, the music, the art, the people, the vibes. Stoked I scored free tickets too!

Five act?

I’d say Dope Lemon. Visually the set up was really different, classy and sexy which worked perfectly with the style of music. I felt like I was in a gentlemen's club scene from the 70s, it was a vibe I hadn't experienced at a gig before.

What tips do you have for future festival goers?

Go with the flow, talk to strangers and stay weird!

Check out my Instagram for upcoming projects and art @gentle