Nettie Rickerson grew up in Fallon, NV where she currently lives and works as an educator. She graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education in 1999. She is also a Reiki master with a small practice in Fallon.
Nettie loved art from an early age, getting informal drawing lessons from her talented older brother and taking art courses throughout elementary, high school, and college. While she enjoys many mediums, the majority of her current artwork is charcoal pencil drawings. Growing up, she was a typical horse crazy girl and her favorite time of year was summer when they would visit the family ranch in Malad, Idaho. Nettie has many treasured memories of riding all over the ranch, watching brandings, and exploring the hills and the old buildings with her cousins. From an early age, all she drew and dreamed about was horses. This love of horses and all things western has greatly influenced her art. Nettie is especially drawn to the people and animals that are part of the rural western way of life. Not only the horses, but the cattle, wildlife, brandings, cow dogs, family, and hard work that are such a big part of that life. She especially loves to draw the beautiful horses and detailed gear that cowboys and ranchers use every day and are so proud of. Each piece has a history, specific function, and beauty.Nettie is a member of the Reno Fine Arts Collective. Her artwork has been shown in the 2021 Mountain Oyster Club art show, 2022 Mountain Oyster Club art show, the 2022 Cowgirls Gathering art show, and a solo exhibition in 2021.
Statement
My artwork is mostly of horses, animals, and the western way of life – all lifelong passions of mine. I draw with charcoal pencils for the most part, using shadow and light to create realistic drawings of the things I love. I work especially hard to make the eyes of my subjects come to life and draw the observer in.