Art on the Trail – a celebration of the LHT and the artists and creators of all ages and skill levels who enjoy it – is now launched and live. And, what better way to encourage our creative friends to share their LHT-inspired artwork than by featuring some of the artists who helped inspire Art on the Trail.
Meet Nicky Belletier – a Lawrence resident who uses acrylic and gouache to produce beautiful landscapes she has shared with the LHT in the past.
LHT: Can you share an Artist’s Statement?
Nicky: The landscape is my primary inspiration. I find painting to be a way to slow down and fully experience the beauty around me, whether in my neighborhood park or exploring somewhere new. I strive to translate these encounters into my artwork.
LHT: How long have you been creating? What inspired you to start or restart creating art?
Nicky: As a kid, I always said I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. Of course, life has a way of taking you in unexpected directions. I never totally stopped making art, but I started painting more regularly a few years ago. I realized that I had let obligations and stress take over and that there is no time like the present to make time for the things that make you happy.
View from Mercer Meadows, March 2020, by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
LHT: How did you discover the LHT?
Nicky: When I first moved to Lawrenceville almost ten years ago, I lived right next to the Johnson Trolley Line section and noticed the marker signs. At the time, I had still never learned to ride a bike and I thought it looked like the perfect place to finally learn. After I pedaled that first stretch, I explored more and more and was amazed to discover just how extensive the LHT is.
LHT: Do you have advice or messages for other artists (adults, kids, novices, pros) encouraging them to get outside and create art inspired by the LHT?
Nicky: I would say keep it simple with a sketchbook and your favorite art supplies. When you find a beautiful spot give yourself the time to slow down and fully observe your surroundings. Most importantly, don’t over think it and enjoy yourself!
Website: nickybelletier.com
Instagram: @belletier_art
Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
LHT: What is your preferred medium or media?
Nicky: Recently I have been mostly painting with acrylic paints and gouache. I also like to experiment with monotype and block printmaking.
LHT: Is all your artwork inspired by nature?
Nicky: For the past few years I have been most inspired by landscapes. Lately I have had some ideas for abstract paintings, but I would say even those have been inspired by patterns and colors I have observed in nature.
LHT: What about the LHT inspires you? What are your favorite segments?
Nicky: I love how there is always a new perspective to discover. The time of day, weather, and season all combine to reveal new colors and patterns every time I visit. My favorite segment is Mercer Meadows.
“Mercer Meadows Magic Hour” by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
View from Mercer Meadows Pole Farm by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
Alcatraz, 2020, by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
High Peaks over Lake Champlain, 2020, by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
View from Mercer Meadows by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
Monhegan Island 4th of July, 2020, by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
View from New Hope Lambertville Bridge, 2020, by Nicky Belletier, courtesy of the artist
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