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Nycki Samuels

biography

Born in Toronto, Ontario in 1972. Her early applied art education at George Brown College led her to work independently from 1994-98 as a jewellery designer, before going on to work as a carpenter and finisher, and then into welding, a career that spans 16 years.

Between 2000 and 2006, Nycki was active in film and music video production as an Art Director, Property Master and Assistant, as well as a set welder. 

Always seeking new ways to express herself in her chosen medium - metal - she has now created a unique collection of pieces using recycled materials. She would like to share her passion for an art form she loves and introduce you to her latest design concepts.

Nycki Samuels now lives and works on Salt Spring Island where she  her artful welding can be found in numerous commissions in the form of gates, railings, lighting and furniture in a variety of metals.  

where to see or read more

shows: Nycki's work can be found at the following galleries and shops.                  
                        OakLeaf Gallery, Chemainus, BC 
                        Boardwalk Greens, Saltspring Is. BC
                        Bayview Framing and Art, Ladysmith, BC
                        Unforgettable Gifts, Delta, BC

web: Visit the artist's website for numerous images and info about her and her work.

press: Reviews where Nycki's work has been discussed.
                       Gulf Island Driftwood, Elizabeth Nolan, July, 2007
                       Gulf Island Driftwood, April Curtis, August, 2005

documents: Click here for a complete Curriculum Vitae.

contact the artist

address: 204 Welbury Drive, SSI, BC. V8K 2L7
email: nycki@toughtinywelder.ca

artist statement

Growing up in Toronto, Ontario and now living on a west coast island has greatly influenced my work. My jeweler's eye for detail was drawn to larger tools and other metals. In 1999 I went back to school, took a welding course and became a certified welder. I was the only women in the class of 17 men. 

I found myself too complacent and moved to Vancouver, B.C. in 2000 and began an informal apprenticeship with ornamental ironwork of the highest quality. At this time I was introduced to architectural ornamental ironwork. The seed that motivated me to learn the forge and fabrication of metalwork was planted.

That experience has allowed me to broaden my artistic horizons towards"functional art": gates, railings, lighting, furniture in a variety of mixed metals. Including, aluminum, steels (stainless & mild) brass and copper being my favorite. 

My latest work consists of "layers of brushed steel, wire mesh and copper in various states from bright penny to turquoise green, making changes to colour, shape and texture combinations. These works prove that metal art doesn't have to be restricted to sculpture." (Elizabeth Nolan, Gulf Islands Driftwood) The more I explore metals, the more possibilities open in front of me.

My goal is to create pieces that entice your eye into the earthy complexities and designs, of each piece and recall a place of beauty in everyday life. 

Nycki Samuels - creative welder
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