Nikaiya Lawson
Nikaiya
Bachelor's in Art & Design: Printmaking
Nikaiya is a Las Vegas native who has exhibited paintings and other works nationally at venues such as:
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Carnegie Hall, The Pratt Institute of Art and Design, Springs Preserve Patio Gallery, The Lowden Theater in Las Vegas, Brian Lewis Art Gallery in Las Vegas, and a series of artwork that has travelled with Scholastic and has been displayed across the nation for two years.
She has a B.A. in Studio Art and Design from the University of Northern Colorado. She also obtained a high school diploma with Summa Cum Laude from the Las Vegas Academy of Performing and Visual Arts. Both intuitions have work permanently on display as well as the Public Education Foundation Building in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Her current work consists of murals commissioned by several businesses and institutions such as barber shops, tattoo shops, and advising offices at the University of Northern Colorado.
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She founded and co-curated a semester long exhibition called Black is Punk. The exhibition has received notable publications and has been made offers to expand past UNCo.
Her personal work reflects an ongoing investigation into insecurities, vices, childhood trauma, sex, bipolar disorder, and suicide. With this she has a deeper understanding of herself and how experiences and relationships have influenced who she is. It has revealed the uncomfortable truths of life in the hopes that someone with a story like hers will feel less alone.
Education
2023
University of Northern
Colorado
2019
Las Vegas Academy
of the Arts
At the University of Northern Colorado, I majored in Art and Design with an emphasis in printmaking. I had the opportunity to take several courses in painting, ceramics, sculpture/welding, and gain a general knowledge of photography. During my time there, I also founded Black Is Punk, an organization that focuses on highlighting black history, culture, and art in the punk scene. Through my workstudy at the university's Michener Library, I developed extensive skills in archival practice and exhibit curation.
I attended a prestigious art school in the Las Vegas art district for four years where I received a comprehensive education in Adobe Suite programs such as Photoshop, After Effects, and Illustrator, as well as Maya. I majored in digital illustration, allowing me to hone my skills in digital art and animation. Throughout my four years at the art school, I was able to develop my creative vision while gaining the technical skills necessary to succeed in the digital art industry.
Professional Experience
2022
Tointon Gallery
2020 - Present
Archives & Special
Collections at University of Northern Colorado
2019
Greeley History Museum
2019 - Present
Muralist
At the University of Northern Colorado, I majored in Art and Design with an emphasis in printmaking. I had the opportunity to take several courses in painting, ceramics, sculpture/welding, and gain a general knowledge of photography. During my time there, I also founded Black Is Punk, an organization that focuses on highlighting black history, culture, and art in the punk scene. Through my workstudy at the university's Michener Library, I developed extensive skills in archival practice and exhibit curation.
I attended a prestigious art school in the Las Vegas art district for four years where I received a comprehensive education in Adobe Suite programs such as Photoshop, After Effects, and Illustrator, as well as Maya. I majored in digital illustration, allowing me to hone my skills in digital art and animation. Throughout my four years at the art school, I was able to develop my creative vision while gaining the technical skills necessary to succeed in the digital art industry.
Working as an intern at the museum was an incredible experience. I had the opportunity to work closely with the curator of exhibits and gain hands-on experience with exhibit curation and design, genealogical and biographical research, and large vinyl printing. I was also able to develop my skills in communication and problem solving while helping to create an educational and engaging experience for museum visitors. This was an invaluable experience that allowed me to expand my knowledge and gain experience that I can use in any future endeavors.
I have five years of professional mural painting experience, painting at barbershops, tattoo shops, bedrooms, and university offices. My work has been praised for its vibrant colors, intricate details and whimsical designs. I am adept at using a variety of mediums, such as watercolors, spray paint, and acrylics, to create unique and captivating pieces. I take great pride in my work and strive to bring my client's visions to life. Whether I am painting a grand mural or a small accent wall, I always give my best effort to create something special.