FAMOUS ARTIST Nichola Campbell
Experience Nichola Campbell’s captivating artworks in Newick, Sussex, crafted with Indian inks. Dive into her blog to uncover the historical depth of this revered medium and explore her depiction of Sussex’s timeless landscapes.
Exploring the Sussex Landscape: Nichola Campbell’s Artistic Journey with Indian Inks
A Haven for Creativity in Newick, Sussex
In the picturesque village of Newick, nestled near Lewes in Sussex, artist Nichola Campbell has discovered a sanctuary for her creative spirit. Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the South Downs National Park, the Ashdown Forest, and the cliff-lined beaches of Sussex, Nichola’s studio is the birthplace of mesmerising artworks that bear witness to her profound connection with the natural environment.
Embracing the Timeless Beauty of Indian Inks
Nichola’s chosen artistic medium is Indian ink, a venerable water-based medium known for its lightfastness and permanence. Her paintings skillfully capture the essence of Sussex’s changing seasons and the play of light across its landscapes. The vibrant and sparkling colours characteristic of Indian inks breathe life into her creations. The immediacy of application offered by this ancient medium complements Nichola’s intuitive approach to art. Indian ink, historically derived from carbon black, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians and Greeks. Modern variations involve pigments mixed with water, varnish, or gelatin to enhance durability and waterproofing once dry. Nichola, however, remains true to the traditional Indian inks for their distinctive qualities. Her dedication to preserving the integrity of her work is evident in her commitment to factors ensuring its longevity.
Artistic Journey and Rediscovery
Initially from Brighton, Nichola embarked on her artistic journey after completing two years at Eastbourne College of Art in the late 1980s. Her formal education culminated in a degree in Illustration (BA Hons) from Brighton University in 1990. After freelancing for magazine publishers and a stint in the print and stationery industry, Nichola rediscovered her passion for painting in 2013.
Nichola’s artistic prowess caught the attention of the Chalk Gallery, a revered artist-run cooperative in Lewes. Joining in 2016, she contributed as an artist and a vital part of the publicity team. In 2019, she assumed the role of chairperson, leaving an indelible mark on the gallery until her departure in May 2022.
A Fixture in the Art Scene
Represented by three independent galleries, Nichola’s work has become a fixture in the art scene. She participates in group exhibitions and open studio events, such as the renowned Lewes District’s art trail and the South of England’s Artwave. Nichola Campbell’s art continues to weave a narrative of Sussex’s beauty, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the timeless allure of the region through the expressive lens of Indian inks. Nichola’s diverse collections include wood panel paintings and ink on primed birchwood, many of which are available as limited edition prints. Her ‘Framescapes’ series features small paintings with integral frames, and she creates decorative collages inspired by the joy found in the treasures of the natural world, including flowers, fruit, and shells. Nichola occasionally hosts workshops, providing insights into her creative process and offering participants the chance to acquire new skills and inspiration.
