Erica Catherine

Erica Catherine Nichols is a freelance illustrator, surface pattern designer and Skillshare teacher, based in Ottawa, Canada.

Erica illustrates for and about creative spaces. A creative space, she says, is any place that helps us feel both relaxed and energized, giving us a sense of creative flow. She hopes her work will encourage others to surround themselves with art and designs that foster curiosity, connection, innovation and a sense of wonder or make-believe.

Her artwork is available to buy or to license, and she welcomes commissions, collaborations and freelance work.

In art and design, Erica believes one must combine elements from the past, the future and the living to enjoy stunning visuals. She is inspired by what she calls retro, deco, boho influences - old Hollywood movies and interior design, midcentury modular furniture, ornate line and scroll work, nature, the sea, and anything seemingly not of this world.

She hand draws each piece, playing with line, form and space to strike a chord between pretty and peculiar. She adds colourful painterly textures in a warm nostalgic palette.

Interested in working together or simply want to say hi? Reach out to Erica here: erica@ericacatherine.ca or join her lipstick love letter newsletter.