My story

I’m Nicole Cicak (pron. Chee-chack), self-taught illustrator and entrepreneur. I work out of my home studio in Barrington, Illinois, a northwest Chicago suburb. I create my artwork using a blend of gouache paints, pencils, and pens. I’m inspired by history, travel, celebrations, polka dots, and the color green.

I graduated from Miami University in Ohio with a degree in communications. After that, I spent a year studying art direction at the Chicago Portfolio School. I worked as a corporate graphic designer for 4 years before starting my own business. I’ve been a full-time freelancer since 2015, starting out in freelance graphic design and transitioning into full-time illustration in 2021.

When I’m not painting, I love baking, antiquing, reading, streaming shows, and hanging with my husband, son and two dogs.