The Making of a Collection

Every expedition begins with an immersive photographic journey. From these first impressions—captured through the lens in wild, untamed places—the creative process unfolds. Each body of work evolves into a deeper exploration of material and meaning, with mediums chosen in dialogue with the subject.

For the Grizzly Bear Collection, Nikki sought to mirror the raw, elemental connection between the bears and their environment. This series became a study in presence and place, grounding the artwork in both image and earth. To honour this relationship, each piece was hand-worked using cold wax blended with natural earth samples gathered at Chilko Lake, along with charcoal and powdered pigments. These materials created richly organic surfaces—layered, textural, and alive with the contrasts of matte and sheen, emulating the bear’s fur and the wilderness they inhabit..