Nick Saltmer’s path into the art world has been anything but linear. Naturally gifted at drawing from a young age, he left school without a clear direction. Although encouraged to attend art college, he followed friends into an apprenticeship as a sheet metal worker. Even then, his exercise books quickly filled with sketches and cartoons rather than engineering notes, a clear sign that creativity was always his true calling.
He eventually returned to art college, where he trained as a graphic designer. In the busy design studios where he worked for many years, Nick became the go-to person for quick, last-minute illustrations that brought layouts to life. After being made redundant in 1992, he spent five years as a freelance illustrator before establishing his own graphic design business.
A memorable highlight of his artistic journey came when he was selected as a wildcard participant for the Sky Landscape Artist of the Year competition. His heat took place in Llanberis, in the shadow of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). Surrounded by spectacular scenery, he spent four hours capturing the landscape while the main competitors worked from their pods. After completing his piece, he stayed to watch the judging—an experience that proved both fascinating and unforgettable. Meeting fellow artists and sharing conversations about painting added to a day he continues to treasure.
Nick has also enjoyed a longstanding collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Victoria Twead, creating the cover illustrations for her popular books. He recently completed the latest cover artwork, continuing a partnership that has been both rewarding and inspiring.
Painting and drawing have always offered Nick a place of calm and creative freedom. His work is often inspired by scenes that evoke personal memories—special places, familiar settings, or loved ones. Whether working in pencil, charcoal, ink, paint, pastel, or other mediums, he aims to create images that resonate with viewers and spark an emotional connection.
