CH.89: If you were to categorize or describe the style of your artwork, what would it be and why?

NR: I would say that most of my work is feminine, and I try to keep an element of lightness and elegance to it.

CH.89: Where do you draw your inspiration from?

NR: I draw inspiration from many sources, but I would say that Parisian scenes, high fashion editorials (both vintage and modern) and classic cinema are constant sources of inspiration for me.

CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about what your creative thought process is like when starting a new project/ piece of artwork?

NR: It really depends on my mood at the time and I often just ‘go with the flow’ without necessarily following a particular process! I might see a beautiful rococo chaise lounge for example, and create a scene in my mind in which this chaise may sit and illustrate it from there.

CH.89: Is there anything in particular that you would want people to take from your artwork?

NR: I’d like to think I can create a distraction from everyday life by creating often opulent scenes with beautiful women doing beautiful things. I hope I can allow the luxury of a little daydreaming from those who see my work.

CH.89: Can you talk a little bit about your lifestyle as an artist and what that is like?

NR: My lifestyle is a little hectic as I also have a very active 4 year old and 2 year old. This often means trying to keep them from drawing on my work! I think I lead a pretty ‘normal’ lifestyle juggling work and home and nothing like the luxurious lives of the women I draw!

CH.89: When starting out an artistic task, do you think it is better to have a particular direction/set plan guiding your way? Or, is it better to act on impulse and go from there?

NR: It depends. I love working on impulse but sometimes it’s nice to have a starting point or a ‘loose’ guide where artistic freedom is still given. I think it’s important to keep to what feels natural when creating. If there’s too much outsider input which doesn’t agree with your personal style the work will be forced and I believe it shows.

CH.89: What is one major lesson you’ve learned as an artist thus far?

NR: I guess going from my previous point; it’s important to be true to your natural style and it’s ok to say no to projects that may not necessarily align with it.  And have fun no matter what!

CH.89: Do you regard personal style & taste to be of highest importance?

NR: They are important elements to developing your own signature. I would say artistic integrity is also very important.

CH.89: What do you consider to be the hardest thing about being an artist?

NR: Not enough hours in the day to create!

CH.89: What is one thing you love about being an artist?

NR: I love creating and the happiness that it can bring to people.

CH.89: Is there anyone in particular, any artist’s that inspire you in any way?

NR: I loved the work of René Gruau, his lines were absolutely beautiful. Having said that, there are too many other artists I admire to list here!

CH.89: What do you think of technology in terms of being a useful tool for artists today?

NR: I am finding that more often my clients, and particularly my corporate clients prefer my digital work (either sketched and then finalized in digital format, or drawn digitally to begin with) as it can be manipulated (you can add and change colours, or even animate) and used across a wide variety of mediums without compromising the quality of the canvas.  Technology has allowed this and I think it’s important for artists to try out new mediums as it can open many doors in today’s digital world.  There is nothing like the feeling of drawing on paper though, and I still prefer it!

CH.89: Do you think being an artist allows you to view the world differently from those who don’t follow creative paths?

NR: I don’t think you necessarily need to be an artist to view the world from a creative perspective. I don’t think I viewed the world any less differently from when I practiced as a commercial lawyer for example, and I certainly have many creative friends who are in different industries. I do believe however, that taking the time to create something that is hopefully meaningful or might evoke a response or feeling forces you to slow down, to think and to absorb more of the world around you. Delayed gratification can often be a good thing.

CH.89: Do you enjoy traveling? If so, do you have a favorite city?

NR: I love to travel and I would love to do more with my children to show them as much of the world as possible. My favourite city is without a doubt Paris. It’s a cliché I know, but there is something about that city and its people that always draws me back.  I don’t think I’ll ever tire of her.

CH.89: Do you have a favorite author or book?

NR: When I was younger I was obsessed with anything written by Charles Dickens, and over the years collected original editions of his works. Albert Camus too and his philosophies. In more recent years I have loved the works of Paullina Simons, she has such strong female characters that I admire.

CH.89: Any future goals or plans for your artwork?

NR: Just keep creating and go with the flow. I take each day as it comes and it’s been an exciting ride so far!

CH.89: What does being an artist mean to you?

NR: It means working with integrity and adding a little colour in the world.

CH.89: What’s the last song you listened to?

NR: Say You Love Me by Jessie Ware.

CH.89: Any last words on the aesthetic of your artwork?

NR: Not sure what else to add here!

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