We recently connected with Nicole Nicolas and have shared our conversation below.

Nicole , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Knowing what I know now, I wish I had experimented more with different art styles. As artists, we’re often told we must “find our art style.” I used to fixate on discovering my “perfect style” — the one painting that would get me recognized. But looking back, I wish I had just started by painting freely, without worries, regrets, or expectations. Doing so would have allowed me to fall in love with art for art’s sake, rather than solely as a career pursuit.

The most essential skills I’ve developed are understanding shading, lighting, and color theory. Once I began to grasp these, my entire art vibe transformed. My work became more eye-catching and cohesive. Yet, the biggest obstacle in my path was myself. They say, “You are your own toughest critic,” and that has always rung true for me. I’ve often held myself back, paralyzed by fears — fear it won’t look good, fear no one will like it, fear of criticism from others.

But I’m learning to step aside and stop being my own roadblock. That, I believe, is the biggest challenge we face as artists.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

For those who don’t know me, my name is Nicole, but I go by *Poetic* because of my poetic style of art. It’s like visual poetry. I started creating art at a young age and have carried it with me into adulthood. Now, I’m balancing two full-time roles: being an artist and a mom.

I co-host the only Puff and Paint event in the Valley at Lacuna Kava Bar in Phoenix, Arizona. Every other week, we gather for an evening of creativity and community, featuring local vendors, kava, cannabis, and, of course, painting! It’s an incredible space where people can relax, unleash their creativity, and connect with like-minded folks. Each event brings a fresh vibe and a chance to explore art in a laid-back atmosphere.

My style is influenced by graffiti and hip-hop culture, but I also have a deep appreciation for the classics, like Renaissance paintings and the works of the masters. I found my way into this industry by chance. In high school, I painted murals as part of community outreach, using art to connect with my community. I fell in love with mural painting, and as I grew, so did my passion. I became hungry to learn everything about it and dreamed of pursuing it full-time.

My work is incredibly diverse and adaptable to any industry. As a creative, I bridge the gap between clients and their audiences, whether it’s by evoking emotions, delivering a message, or simply bringing a vibrant splash of color to a space. What sets me apart is my dedication to transforming my clients’ visions into reality. My art is more than just beautiful—it’s history, community, unity, love, and passion. It brings people together in ways they never expected.

This connection is what every brand craves: a sense of community. That’s why they call me when they’re ready to break free from blank walls. Recently, I started a movement called *“NO MORE BLANK WALLS.”* It’s about encouraging brands and spaces to push past their limits and realize their full potential. This movement is what I’m most proud of. No longer do brands hide among others like them; instead, I’m helping them emerge from their shells and embrace change, benefiting both them and their clients.

My art will live on long after I’m gone, and that, in itself, is poetic

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Supporting is like tending to the earth—give a little, and it will grow and flourish in return. Support can be financial, or it can be as simple as sharing a creative’s work. Repost content, share it with your audience, like, and comment. Social media is a powerful tool for creatives and like-minded individuals; it’s how we grow our businesses and connect each day.

When you share a creative’s work with your followers, you’re opening doors, putting it in front of new faces it may never have reached otherwise. Buying art from local creatives is wonderful too. But as artists, we should lift each other up—sharing posts, passing along opportunities, and supporting one another’s journeys. It doesn’t have to be a competition. Send out love, and love will come flying back to you.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

This has been a new journey for me. I recently became a mom, and recovering from birth while learning to juggle motherhood and a full-time art career has been a real challenge. I’ve had to let go of old habits and step out of my comfort zone, and it’s definitely thrown me for a curve. Not many people talk about the struggle of being a full-time mom while still trying to find your footing in the world outside of your home.

Motherhood has required me to pivot in my career and embrace new lessons. It’s been both the most rewarding and challenging experience. I’m pushing myself to find balance in this new life, and while I’m still learning, I know it will take time.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.poeticdesignco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poetic.nicki/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.nicolas.7771
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-nicolas-025aa7172/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUOpFDLx3W1MYf9L46rYGtg
• Other: TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@poetic.nicki

Image Credits

This images are credited to:
Shane Morgan photography
Life Scenes Photography