Having spent most of her life painting and drawing, Niki began taking courses in pastels with Temecula artist David Musser in 2004.
Niki works primarily in pastel, using a unique method that incorporates wet and dry pastel sticks layered on flat canvas or heavy paper to build deep shadows, create bright lights, and give an added effect of blended texture. She also paints with acrylic, creating mixed media works with paint and pastel, or painting impressionistic scenes with a brush on canvas.
Being a native of California, Niki finds inspiration in local scenery—particularly that which features the natural world. Whether it be the twisted trunk of a live oak tree, the glimmering light of an ocean sunset, or a burst of colorful flowers, Niki delights in harnessing the beauty of the scenery around her and bringing it to life with her pastels.
Niki teaches art classes and workshops for all ages– children through adult seniors. She is currently an instructor at Fallbrook School of the Arts, and teaches special classes for San Diego County libraries summer and after school programs. Niki truly believes that everyone has the ability to enjoy creating art, it’s just a matter of finding the right medium and inspiration.
Niki can be reached at nicolehilsabeck@yahoo.com with any inquiries about commission work, art lessons, or current work for sale.
