The Art of Ascendance

“Collage involves the collision of different images and ideas, creating a dialogue between them that reveals something new and often surprising.”

— John Stezaker

‘The Art of Ascendance’ explores the timeless human yearning to rise — above limits, gravity, and the everyday. Through analogue collage, this series reflects on the dream of flight as both a physical and emotional act: a symbol of freedom, release, and aspiration.

Using found imagery, hand-cut forms, and layered compositions, each piece offers a glimpse of ascendance — whether through winged figures, floating shapes, or suspended moments. The process of collage mirrors this longing: cutting, selecting, and arranging fragments into something that hints at lift-off.

At once delicate and dynamic, these works capture the tension between holding on and letting go — inviting viewers into a space where dreams might lift off, just for a moment.

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  • Nicola Bouwer’s work is radiant and rich. When I view Bouwer’s work, it clearly stands out. Her ability to tell a story with the least amount of subject on the canvas is unparalleled. A single chair against an identified background says so much. Bouwer has the ability to move you to tears with only a single chair. I’m a proud collector of her work. I am thrilled to witness her artistic journey and can’t wait to see where she will go…and take me with her.

    Yasser Bagersh

  • 'I love my art pieces from Nicola🩷. And they make me especially happy because I know they are hers.'

    Suzanne Stevens

  • This little wonderful artwork now belongs to me! I’m so proud to offer it a new home and be its caretaker! '

    Lisa Younger

  • I don't have any abstract art in my house. It isn't that I don't appreciate abstract art - I just couldn't find pieces that I felt comfortable living with. This triptych by Nicola Bouwer was the perfect option for me: architectural, modern and fresh, but at home in my home.

    Zelda Pringle

  • I am lucky to have one of Nicola’s atmospheric paintings in my hallway. It is serene and moody, taking you to a quieter place every time you walk past.

    Robyn Shamu

  • I have known Nicola for many years, and although I am no expert, her growth as an artist has been sublime and a wonder to watch. Nicola’s style is relatable, and her pictures take pride of place in our home.

    Mark Hele

  • I have been privileged to be able to purchase three art pieces from Nicola. I saw them at one of her exhibitions and they struck me as being unique and creative. It is a collage series and the three art works together tell a beautiful story. I love the way Nicola expresses her creative ideas through different mediums and the artworks speak their own unique language! List Item

    Ingrid Sellschop

  • The scene in this painting was a day of thick late winter mist in Dullstroom. The wet conditions caused the oranges of the terrain and yellow grass to pop out through the clouds. With Alan fishing in the distance, Nicola so successfully captured this stunning vista. I love this piece. Thank you.

    Jen Bedford-Shaw

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Figurative Collage