I was born and raised in Claremont, California. Story telling was always a passion for me; drawing comics, creating live theater and eventually studying theatre arts at U.C.L.A.’s School of Theater, Film and Television. After graduating I pursued a career as a lighting and scenic designer in numerous local and regional theaters. In 2002, I moved to New York and slowly shifted into a more technical role in the theater.

To keep my artistic side engaged I attended frequent art classes at The Art Students League, eventually becoming a member. These classes began my technical training in drawing, watercolor and sculpture.

In 2015, I joined The Fashion Institute of Technology’s Illustration Department. It was a dream to return to art full time and I quickly discovered a love of painting. With the guidance of teachers, I developed an affinity for oil painting and started to focus on this medium.

I am heavily influenced by the classic American illustrators as well as fine artists ranging from Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema to John Singer Sargent. I am also influenced by contemporary illustrators such as Donato Giancola and Greg Manchess. I continue my education working tirelessly while visiting museums and galleries in New York and abroad. I regularly attend life drawing classes and painting workshops.

Nicholas is beginning a long career in illustration and hopes to continue to create beautiful, emotional stories through his artwork.

Nicholas lives with his partner in New York City.

EDUCATION

Fashion Institute of Technology, New York, New York. Department of Illustration, AAS and BFA Illustration, Summa Cum Laude, 2015-2020.

The Art Students League, New York, New York. Drawing, Painting and Sculpture, 2002-Present

Center for Furniture Craftsmanship, Rockport, Maine. 2008.

University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California. School of Theater, Film and Television, BA Theater, 1993-1998.

EXPERIENCE

Freelance Illustration & Portraiture, 2018 to present.

MEMBERSHIPS, AWARDS & EXHIBITIONS

Illustration Department Medal, Fashion Institute of Technology, 2020

Student Member, Society of Illustrators, 2016-2023.

Communication Arts, Short Listed, 2020 Illustration Student Competition.

Creative Quarterly, Honorable Mention CQ56 Student Competition