Selected CollectionsNumerous works held in private collections in over 20 Countries

Nicole Young Cochener (B. 1980, Wichita, KS, USA) is a mixed media artist who combines post-consumer materials and traditional fine art techniques to create her distinctive paintings. Her pieces combine layers of collaged paper, acrylic and other media to create representational images of the natural world, juxtaposing organic imagery and symbolism with our modern disposable culture.

From a young age, Nicole aspired to be an artist and began taking drawing and painting classes. She earned dual degrees in Art and Publications from Friends University and later studied Art Direction at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

Her artistic career began with creating graphics and video propaganda for the US Department of Defense. She also served as Creative Coordinator for the University of Kansas School of Medicine before opening her own business, Squishy Sushi, an eco-boutique featuring Nicole’s recycled jewelry and art. After a brief hiatus to start a family, Nicole moved to Las Vegas where she now creates her art full time.

Nicole’s work is included in private and corporate collections in over 20 countries worldwide. Her pieces have been featured by CNN, Marin Magazine, San Joaquin Magazine, Pregnancy and Newborn, Green Mom and more. Nicole currently owns her own gallery and working studio, Squishy Studio, located in the Las Vegas Arts District.

In my art, I aim to blur the distinction between man-made and nature by combing recycled papers like newspaper, maps and sheet music with acrylic paint and other media. Each of my mixed media paintings are meant to be viewed on two levels. From across the room the finished image can be seen, but on closer inspection the many layers of hidden detail emerge. A simple rock becomes a map that reminds you of home. A flower petal is a sheet of music playing your favorite song. I create images of the natural world by recycling fragments of our modern disposable culture into the painting. Nothing is as simple as it seems. In my work, our busy consumer filled lives intersect with a natural serenity and finds a balance between the two.