About

My Thoughts

My inspiration for both my process and subject matter has always been textures. I love the natural textures found in nature: hair, skin, horn, teeth, grass, bark, etc.

I have always had a love for nature and the outdoors, as well as for the arts and creating. I combine these passions by making primarily wildlife portraits and am committed to helping raise awareness about vulnerable species through my work.

Philosophy

Built on repetition and a deep connection with texture, my works are quiet yet graphic. Through layers of texture and tone, I hope to convey how emotion can exist within stillness.

My works are based on realism but the goal is not for photo-realism. I capture detail while still preserving a hand-made, raw feel.

My Process

I create my artwork with a process called sgraffito. Most would compare it to scratchboard art, except that I do not use scratchboard panels, but make my own surface using oil pastel and india ink on archival paper.

Using sharp tools I slowly scrape away the black ink to reveal the white surface beneath. Line by line the image slowly comes to life.

While small mistakes can be remedied, there is no erasing or painting over. Each mark must be intentional or risk starting all over again.

Nicola Sauber

CV

Born:
1987 Otjiwarongo, Namibia

Lives:
Windhoek, Namibia


Education:
2014  AAS Graphic Design
Colorado Mountain College, Glenwood Springs, Colorado. USA
2010  Bachelor of Fine Arts with emphasis in Illustration
Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, USA


Group Shows:

2010  Friktion, GVSU Art Gallery, Allendale, Michigan, USA

2025  The VineyArt, BBB Beergarden, Windhoek, Namibia

2026  Gallop of Time, Woermannhaus Art Gallery, Swakopmund, Namibia

2026  African Wildlife Artist of the Year 2026 (AWAY), Fine Art Gallery, Swakopmund, Namibia


Workshops:

2015  Mokuhanga, the Baron & Printing at Home
Anderson Ranch Art Center, Snowmass Village, Colorado, USA