Nicola McBride is a Scottish artist renowned for her hyper-realistic biro pen drawings of iconic Scottish foods and retro objects. Born in Dundee, she graduated from Gray's School of Art, Aberdeen, with a BA Honours degree in Drawing and Painting in 1997. Since then, she has exhibited her work widely across the UK and France.
In 2019, Nicola began focusing on biro pen as her primary medium, captivated by the mark-making possibilities and the challenges of controlling this unforgiving tool. Restricted to using just eight colours plus black, she meticulously builds up layers to achieve a realistic finish. Her subjects often include familiar items from her childhood, such as Tunnock's Teacakes and Caramel Wafers, Irn-Bru bottles, and McVitie's biscuits.
Nicola's work is heavily influenced by the 1950s Pop Art movement, reflecting a fascination with imagery from popular and mass culture. She aims to spark memories and help viewers form connections to their own past through her art. In addition to her artistic practice, Nicola is the Head of the Art Department at Perth High School, balancing her teaching responsibilities with her commitment to creating art.
Her dedication to her craft and her unique approach have garnered her a strong following, with her artworks held in private collections both nationally and internationally. Nicola continues to explore the possibilities of biro pen art from her studio in Perth, Scotland.