We recently connected with Nichole McDaniel and have shared our conversation below.

Nichole, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

I feel so grateful to my parents. They have always done their best to support me in what I have been passionate about. This really is a blessing. When I was growing up I never really said I want to be artist per se, but always enjoyed learning and viewing art. It connects you with different cultures, periods in time and an individual artist creating the work. I found all of that fascinating. When I grew up in Indiana we were about an hour from Chicago and my mom would take me to the Chicago Art Institute. We would make it a girls day and usually have lunch too. It always seemed so neat going into the big city and seeing all of these iconic paintings. Reflecting back, I was so fortunate to have grown up so close to an amazing museum and collection of work. I still think it is one of the best museums. When I went to college I chose art as my major with a focus in graphic design thinking that I could have a more stable and flexible job. I didn’t go into with the intention of becoming a fine artist, but sometimes life takes you down an even better path.

I recently became a mom of twins who are now 10 months old. So this question really resonated with me. As parents we can only do our best. I only hope I can assist them in their passions whether it is something they want to pursue as a profession or as some thing they will enjoy throughout their life. These little moments throughout our childhood really can make a difference.

Nichole, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a Fine Artist, Muralist, and Photographer. I have been showcasing my work in galleries and internationally for over 13 years now. I started my art career professionally when I moved to Southern California. I found inspiration in the beautiful scenery and was motivated by all of the talented artists in the area.

It is a privilege to be able to able to do something you love and share it with others. As far as artistic style, it is pretty diverse. I love experimenting with different mediums and seeing how I can use them together. Some of my most recent series include abstract panels inspired by nature, a cloud series titled “Daydreaming”, and pop art featuring inspiring women.

In my eyes, creativity is beautiful. But it’s not just the final product. It’s recognizing somethings potential and the path taken toward that final product or piece of art. If others can feel that connection to my art then that is the ultimate fulfillment.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

After being the art world professionally for over a decade now. I really feel like the way to learn, grow and expand is through your network. Over the years I have had the privilege to meet some of the most amazing, talented, and creative individuals. My artist friends help me in countless ways, show or publication opportunities, helpful criticism, inspiration artistically, etc. Other creative friends make me think outside the box in other creative outlets which expand my horizon. And then I just have some friends that really just kick butt in their profession and their drive is something to inspire to. I really do feel that the high quality people throughout me life have been the biggest resource. While not everyone unfortunately fits this. The individuals that have really have helped me along the way. Sometimes it is hard to put yourself out there and meet people and expand your network of friends. I got there eventually but wish I would have maybe put myself out there a little more. It can really be intimidating as a creative to put yourself and your work out there. The people that will be the most influential will help you grow and push you outside of your comfort zone in a good way.

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

I am actually at a huge pivot point in my life at this exact moment. I was blessed recently with twins Gabriel and Genevieve who are now 10 months old. It is an amazing experience being a mom and seeing the most beautiful creation right before my eyes. I feel so many new emotions and exceptions. My priorities are these two babies that my husband and I are responsible for providing a happy and healthy environment for them. Art for me is a passion that I am excited to share with them. Right now I am figuring out the balance for raising twins and not only being an artist but expanding.

My husband Ben and I recently moved back to Indiana. I am looking at it as I am expanding to the Midwest and continuing to create work for my galleries and clients on the West Coast. I have made so many amazing art friends and connections in Southern California, I am looking forward to making those connections here in the Midwest. But that takes time and I am now balancing babies. The good news is I have an amazing husband that supports my artistic goals and family here that I know will help in any way they can.

I really am fortunate to have so many amazing people in my life. While I sometimes find it hard, I will need to ask for help more and realize that it is ok not to take on everything yourself. So, any moms that work, I would love to hear tips and tricks. Also, I would love to connect with artists in Indianapolis and the Chicago area.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nicholemcdaniel.com
• Instagram: @artistnicholemcdaniel https://www.instagram.com/artistnicholemcdaniel/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicholemcdanielart
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholemcdaniel/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/nicholemcdaniel
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7vLie8-jm7GKBONQbPezbQ