Hey, I’m Nicki 👋 I’m a Filipino-English illustrator based in the UK, drawing inspiration from nature, city life, and the people and stories that connect them.

My work is rooted in a desire to slow down and pay attention to the details of everyday scenes. I believe there are common threads that connect us all: curiosity, resilience, and the shared experience of adapting to life's unexpected turns with a sense of humour. I hope my work encourages others to take a moment to look a little closer and recognise something of themselves in the world around them.

Watercolour and ink are my go-to mediums. I’m drawn to the way water and pigment interact, how layers gradually settle and forms emerge through the process. I often use precise lines to anchor the fluidity of the washes, creating a balance between structure and spontaneity. The portability of these mediums also makes them perfect for creating art on the go, especially by the sea, where I feel most at ease.

I take much of my inspiration from my family, particularly my two sisters, whose curiosity reminds me of the value of discovering and learning something new. They have been a constant source of strength and wonder all these years, shaping not only my sense of self but also the heart of my work.

I often take my film camera with me when I travel. I’m particularly drawn to analogue photography, shooting on a trusty Canon AE-1 with Kodak Gold, Colorplus and Portra film. Experimenting with film keeps me from overthinking each composition, letting unpredictability to become part of the story.

If you're interested in custom artwork, feel free to get in touch 💭

Big love 🧡