THE ARTIST

Nina was born in Amstelveen, the Netherlands, and spent her formative years in Amsterdam. In 1994, she began her studies at the Gerrit Rietveld Academy, a renowned institution for Fine Arts and Design. Following her education, she made a deliberate commitment to "paint from life," seeking authenticity in both her subject matter and process.

In 2001, Nina embarked on extensive travels before ultimately settling in New York. Her journey as an artist has been shaped by a deep and lifelong curiosity about the human mind and its place within society. Even as a child, she felt a pull toward other cultures — often imagining herself as a foreigner to escape the social constraints of her native environment. That desire for freedom and perspective became the driving force behind her work and her identity as a first-generation immigrant in the United States.

Nina’s art is rooted in storytelling. Working across painting, sculpture, and digital media, she crafts contemporary figurative works that serve as narrative poems—reflections on life, identity, and the world we share. Drawing from personal experience, cultural observation, and global issues, her work addresses profound social and environmental themes that invite reflection and dialogue.

"My works are narrative poems about life. They arise from my insatiable curiosity about the mind, soul, and society, and then embark on their journey."

ARTIST STATEMENT

My creative process began early in my life, driven by an insatiable curiosity about the mind and soul and how these elements relate to my own experiences. Inspired by my personal life, my artwork began to study and reflect integral aspects of society, popular culture, and their complexities. My work explores strengths, weaknesses, and imperfections; it serves as a mirror reflecting individuals, groups, and issues relevant to society.

“The moment I recognized that art was my voice, I spoke out and have never held back since.”

I aim to provoke feelings, thoughts, and dialogue through various art forms. This cognitive triangle is essential for our growth, innovation, and understanding of our role in the world. As such, the observer is always a crucial part of my pieces. I do not aim to shock or dictate what they feel or think; that is part of their personal journey.

My works encompass multiple art media, which I use freely throughout my collections. These media serve as my building blocks to create unique experiences. As a contemporary painter, my pieces convey a sense of constraint and tension through a dance of sharp shadows and lines, symbolizing movement, vibration, and sound. By adding layers, I transform a flat, two-dimensional canvas into a three-dimensional experience.