Take a behind-the-scenes look at the art-making process with stories, inspirations, and creative insights.
Art Musings: Inside the Studio – Insights into the Art Making Process
Half-Empty Nest, Full Heart
A Reflection on Family, Change, and Returning to Work.
Our daughter returned to university this past weekend. And just like that, we’ve become what I’m calling “half-empty nesters” — one child still at home, the other stepping into her next chapter.
Inside the Creative Process: Studio Notes And Visual Diaries
Lately, I’ve been thinking about the power of words — journaling, note-taking, fragments, half-sentences... how they’re often the real beginning of a new body of work. Not the drawing. Not the painting. The words.
Showing Up: Why I Moved My Studio to the City
It’s been brewing for some time. I’ve always romanticised the idea of a New York-style loft studio—big windows, paint-splattered floors, a sense of possibility. But for the past few years, my studio has lived quietly in the suburbs. And recently, that quiet began to feel a little isolating.
Why This Artwork Had to Be Mine (And Why Art Matters)
I debated. I overthought. (Yes, classic indecisive Libran behaviour.) I drove my husband slightly mad. But in the end, I did it—I bought an artwork! And it got me thinking about why art (or, really, beautiful things) matter in our lives.
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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
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I love my art pieces from Nicola🩷. And they make me especially happy because I know they are hers.
Suzanne Stevens
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This little wonderful artwork now belongs to me! I’m so proud to offer it a new home and be its caretaker!
Lisa Younger
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
