Discover the Art and Journey of Nicole Sleeth in Jesse Brass’s Latest Film
Create! Magazine is delighted to share an inspiring new film from filmmaker Jesse Brass and Making Art Films. In this evocative short documentary, Brass brings viewers intimately into the artistic world of acclaimed figurative painter and educator Nicole Sleeth.
About the Artist: Nicole Sleeth
Born in Kingston, Ontario, Nicole’s journey into art began at a young age, influenced deeply by her grandmother's encouragement and early exposure to artists like Emily Carr and Claude Monet. Her passion for the figurative tradition was ignited during intensive study at Bob Grant’s Fine Art Studio in Ottawa in 1998, where she embraced the atelier method—an intensive, classical approach to learning drawing and painting through close studies of masters such as Rembrandt, Velazquez, and Vermeer.
Following years of artistic exploration, including gallery experience in Vancouver, Nicole established her own atelier in 2010, committed fully to teaching and painting. For over a decade, she has shared her approachable, practical insights in drawing and oil painting, helping artists of all levels build skill and confidence. Today, her online art courses make her extensive expertise accessible to anyone wishing to master traditional techniques from the comfort of their home.
Nicole’s captivating paintings primarily feature the female figure, offering a thoughtful exploration of power, vulnerability, connection, and authentic lived experiences. Her unique voice and distinct visual language have garnered recognition and acclaim. Her work has received accolades at prestigious Canadian events, including the Annual International Representational Show by the Federation of Canadian Artists, Figureworks Ottawa, and the Sooke Fine Arts Show, as well as featured coverage in Focus and Boulevard Magazine in Victoria, BC.
Committed to growth and lifelong learning, Nicole continues to develop her artistic practice through workshops and advanced studies, having studied with respected contemporary figurative artists Alyssa Monks, Christopher Pugliese, and Max Ginsburg at the New York Academy of Art and Whidbey Island Fine Art Studio. Despite the breadth of her experience, Monet remains one of her most profound and enduring inspirations.
Nicole currently lives and maintains her vibrant studio practice in Carbonear, Newfoundland and Labrador.
About the Film
Filmmaker Jesse Brass, known for his heartfelt and intimate art documentaries, delivers yet another powerful short film in collaboration with Nicole Sleeth. With music by Alaskan Tapes providing a subtle and atmospheric backdrop, Brass invites viewers into Nicole’s creative sanctuary, presenting an insightful glimpse into her process, philosophy, and the powerful imagery of her paintings.
This short film beautifully captures the quiet intensity of Nicole’s studio practice and celebrates the connection between artist and subject, highlighting her nuanced approach to representing the female form. It’s a deeply reflective piece that underscores the importance of visual storytelling and authenticity within contemporary representational art.
Watch the full short film by Jesse Brass here:
Making Art: Nicole Sleeth
Learn more about Jesse Brass and explore more inspiring short films at makingartfilms.com.