Painting the Story: The Art of Light and Color by Jeanette Nickas

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June 19, 2025

A Return to the Brush

Some artists find their path early in life. Others, like Jeanette Nickas, rediscover it with a renewed sense of purpose after the pace of careers and daily obligations have quieted.

Jeanette’s journey began in graphic design and education, but it was after retiring and relocating to Corpus Christi that she returned to her first creative love—painting. And in doing so, she found a new rhythm and inspiration in the warm light, open skies, and boundless water that surround her.

Painting the Story Behind the Scene

Two of Jeanette’s newest pieces now grace our gallery walls, and they’re perfect examples of her gift for capturing not just the image—but the feeling.

Path to the Shore is a beautifully rendered moment in oil, offering a glimpse down a sandy trail toward the bay. It’s the kind of piece that instantly transports you—the scent of salt in the air, the sound of seabirds, the hush of sea grass swaying in the breeze.

Path to the Shore, oil on canvas by Jeanette Nickas

Pier Days paints the story of Bob Hall Pier in a quiet shimmer, where glassy water beneath the pier glows with subtle movement and light. There’s something nostalgic about it, like a memory you didn’t know you had until you see it on her canvas.

Pier Days, oil on canvas by Jeanette Nickas

Jeanette paints with heart, drawing from what she sees and feels while out in nature. For her, it’s about more than what’s in front of her—it’s about what stays with her after.

“The light is what I remember most,” she shares. “It transforms everything. I look for contrast, vibrant hues, and cool shadows. My paintings are a snapshot in time—a story behind the experience.”

Artist, Jeanette Nickas and her Best of Show award-winning piece - Waiting for the Set

Creating from a Place of Peace

Jeanette’s work speaks of stillness and appreciation, of those peaceful, introspective moments that remind us to slow down. You can feel her reverence for nature in every stroke—her paintings aren’t loud, but they linger, like a gentle conversation you remember long after it ends.

She often dreams of painting—waking up in the middle of the night as if she’s just stepped away from the easel. One of her favorite quotes is from Van Gogh:

“I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream.”

It’s a fitting sentiment for an artist who paints not just with technique, but with vision.

Come See for Yourself

Several of Jeanette’s paintings are on display at Padre Island Art Gallery, and I invite you to come experience them in person. You might just find yourself pausing a little longer than usual—taking in the light, the calm, and the quiet joy her work offers.

While you’re here, don’t miss our current Incognito Art Show, on display through Saturday, June 28th. It’s a creative and meaningful exhibit, with anonymous 5"x7" artworks available for purchase. Proceeds support Kaylee’s Light, a heartfelt local initiative that brings joy to children at Driscoll Children's Hospital.

Because sometimes, art doesn’t need to shout to make an impact. Sometimes, it just needs to be felt.

The Art of Island Life will return next week with more stories and inspiration from our coastal community. Have a story to share or an upcoming event? Reach out to me at melissa@padreislandartgallery.com.