Meet Nikki Stinson | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Stinson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued a creative career because art, design and a passion to create run through my blood. Creativity defines me and has always come naturally. I find serious joy in the entire process – from start to finish.

When I was a child I would find an object an empty product container and my first thought would always be, “What can I turn this into?” or “In this situation, how can I design it better?” I felt inclined to problem solve and explore unique design avenues. As Charles Eames once said, “Design addresses itself to the need.” He was spot on. At the heart of all art and design is a need for something aesthetically pleasing. I have had this inner desire to create my whole life, whether it is turning something sculptural into something else, or painting on a blank canvas.

In college I studied advertising and marketing because naturally I was creative, but I was excited about business and entrepreneurship, business strategies, marketing and the psychology behind it all. So when it came to choosing my career it was an easy choice.

After 10 years in the advertising world, marriage and children followed. I started my own design company, Tickled Designs, designing paper products and most recently have devoted my time to fine art with Nikki Stinson Art. I have also found a love of teaching my craft and spreading my love of creating by teaching kids and adults alike.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art represents the thoughts and images that constantly swirl around in my head. It is a culmination of life experiences, travels, relationships, architecture, design and other visuals I intake on a daily basis. I love color. I love everything about it and incorporate color in all of my work. I am a big risk taker with the use of color and when I create/paint I love to experiment with textures and color combinations.

My career started off in the fast paced world of advertising and marketing where I was a creative director, then progressed to a slower pace once I started a family. I focused on graphic design with my paper design company, Tickled Designs. Now I am fully focused on fine art and painting, with Nikki Stinson Art, as well as teaching.

I’ve learned that I love working with clients – whether a business tycoon needing a new branding strategy or an art collector wanting a piece for his or her new home. I love problem solving, experimenting and jumping right into projects. Making a client happy brings me complete joy.

I’m always up for new projects and adventures, which turn into new life lessons. I have also learned over the years that if you don’t try, you will never know what you’re missing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Dallas has so much to offer! I would say that a perfect day would include heading to Clyde Warren Park with your favorite furry friend, grab a snack at one of the food trucks and lounge/people watch on the beautiful lawns. Next, head to the Perot Museum for the latest exhibit. Follow up with a trip to Preston Center to shop a bit and end for dinner at my favorite, Il Bracco Italian restaurant.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to give a shout out to my wonderfully supportive husband, Matt, who encourages me to take risks and keeps me level headed. Also to my kids for being my inspiration and allowing me to see the world through a completely different lens. A huge thank you to my parents who have supported me all these years and have always believed in my skills and dreams and fostered my creative side.

I also want to give a shout out to my friends and collectors who challenge me with their design conundrums. It’s always a joy to rise to the occasion and design/create and bring someone joy.

I’m also grateful for my colleagues and friends at Trinity Christian Academy, where I teach elementary and middle school art.

Website: www.nikkistinsonart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkistinsonart