why I do this
Leaving the corporate world behind felt like reclaiming a part of myself that had long been waiting to emerge. My art is driven by a deep connection to the wild—whether it’s the curve of a whale beneath the ocean’s surface or the intense gaze of a grizzly bear, every subject holds a story I’m compelled to tell. Creating isn’t just about crafting beautiful images; it’s about translating the awe and reverence I feel into something that sparks conversation and action. I work with light, oil, photography, and mixed media to create pieces that reflect the fragility and magnificence of our world. My art is my way of inviting others to see the planet with fresh eyes, to feel its urgency without shame, and to engage in preserving its beauty from a place of love and hope.
Life & Laughs
Nikki Baxendale, a British-born visual artist now calling Vancouver home, brings an infectious blend of humor and boldness to everything she does. With a penchant for Marmite (though it’s hardly the most romantic choice) and a busy household of three children—twin girls and a boy—life is always lively. Then there’s Hazel, the puppy who often gets accused of being the favourite, possibly because she hasn’t learned to talk back… yet!
Once a dedicated 20-kilometer-a-day runner, Nikki now spends her time racing between studios and navigating life’s fast lane. She once won a spectacularly loud award for ‘biggest personality’ in school, though whether it was a compliment remains up for debate. A fierce competitor—especially with herself—Nikki struggles to say no (seriously, don’t dare her; she’ll probably follow through). She’s also charmingly gullible and, by her own admission, perpetually confused by left and right, turning her driving test into a bit of a guessing game.
Despite harboring deep fears of water, boats, and most large animals, Nikki has braved the Arctic, faced grizzly bears, and frozen her fingers off in pursuit of her passions. And next year? She’s set her sights on Everest base camp with her daughter, defying her self-imposed ban on heights.
Through it all, Nikki’s laughter is a constant, as is her work ethic and unquenchable thirst for adventure. Stick around, and you’re bound to witness her next wild story unfold!
The tipping point
What Moved Me to Work as an Artist Ambassador for Climate Restoration
The turning point for me came during the traumatic experiences of 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy in New York. Working with the American Red Cross during these events revealed the fragility of our environment and the vital need for connection and storytelling in times of crisis. I realized that art could serve as a powerful medium to evoke emotions and inspire action to protect our planet.
I have always been captivated by the beauty of nature, particularly fragile and endangered landscapes. Expeditions to the Arctic, including my journey to Svalbard for Into The Ice, A Portrait of Arctic Beauty, that solidified my dedication to climate restoration. Witnessing glaciers rapidly melting instilled a profound sense of urgency, compelling me to advocate for their preservation.
My work is rooted in my fascination with water, energy transfer, and the natural world. Through photography and multi-dimensional sculptural paintings, I strive to capture the beauty and fragility of these environments. More than just showcasing their splendor, I aim to create moments of reflection that encourage viewers to connect emotionally with the planet and recognize the need for action.
Becoming an ambassador for climate restoration felt like a natural progression in my career. After years in corporate settings, I realized I could use my creative voice to make a difference. My goal is to spark conversations about preservation, reminding people that protecting our planet is essential for our shared future.
