Botanical Mixed Media Artist
Ruth Nicolson is a Shropshire based botanical mixed media artist whose work brings together drawing, stitch and collage.
Nature is at the heart of everything she creates, often beginning with close botanical studies that later evolve into layered, textural pieces.
Her Practice
Quietly influenced by Japanese aesthetics, particularly the philosophy of wabi-sabi, which embraces simplicity, impermanence and the beauty found in natural imperfections.
This influence can be seen throughout her work, especially in her signature palette of black, white and red.
The contrast gives her pieces a calm structure, while the red adds life, warmth and a sense of focus.
侘び寂び
Wabi sabi
Finding beauty in simplicity, imperfection and the passage of time.
Origin: Zen Buddhism and Japanese tea ceremony aesthetics, developed from the fifteenth century onwards.
Technique
Ruth often works with handmade papers, calico and natural fabrics, combining ink-like linework with both machine and hand embroidery.
The stitched marks give her pieces movement and rhythm, gently echoing Sashiko techniques and the visible hand of the maker.
The Natural World
Her portfolio includes a mix of detailed botanical illustrations, textured textile work and graphic, minimalist compositions.
Across all of these, she aims to capture the quiet beauty of plants and the passing moments of the natural world.
Ruth continues to develop her practice with curiosity, patience and a reflective approach to making. Her work celebrates balance, calm and the poetry of imperfection.
心を込めて
Kokoro wo komete
心を込めて Kokoro wo komete
To put your heart into what you create.
Origin: Traditional Japanese expression used in calligraphy, craft and ceremonial arts.
Solo Exhibition
12th - 26th April 2026
Location: Bear Steps Art Gallery and Medieval Hall