Ocean-inspired Art

by Nicole Miller

info@oceanart.co.nz

Please get in touch for a private viewing in my Wellington studio. A number of exhibitions are coming up (more details below).

  • Waiheke Island Open Studios (30 May to 01 June 2026)
  • Pariwhero Gallery Wellington (opening 28 June 2026)
  • South Coast Arts Trail Wellington (12-13 September 2026)

About the Art

The fluidity of movement, form and textures of seaweeds and the ever changing interplay of light, waves and marine life keep drawing me back. My hope is to capture a surprising perspective, spark a lasting sense of wonder and build an enduring connection with the underwater world.

The striking colours and intricate details of seaweeds provide a powerful natural canvas. My signature black & white series is especially suited to capturing fine textures in abstract detail, as well as the sculptural presence of giant kelp in its natural environment.

About the Artist

With over 1,000 scuba dives logged, Nicole has dedicated her life to documenting, restoring and protecting the rich biodiversity of New Zealand’s marine environment.

The short documentary Seaweed, A Love Story featuring Nicole’s work is now screening at venues across New Zealand.

Art by the Ocean, for the Ocean

100% profits raised from artworks contribute to marine conservation and outreach initiatives by Explore Your Coast.

Explore Wellington's Underwater Forests

Towering underwater forests form rich and diverse marine habitats. These remarkable ecosystems are hidden gems that mirror the complexity and wonder of our land-based forests.
My artworks invite viewers to discover the extraordinary diversity of life in our coastal waters. Often within a stone’s throw from shore kelp forests are exposed to mounting pressures, including urchin (kina) overgrazing and sedimentation, and there is an urgent need to protect them.

Exhibitions and Events

On Show & Coming Up

Aquanauts, Astronauts and Wondernauts
30 May to 1 June 2026, Waiheke Open Studio, more info here.

Kim Wesney Studio Gallery, 32 Mako St., Waiheke Island. 

Sea, Sky and Stone 2026

A joint exhibition celebrating Matariki, opening 28 June 2026.
Pariwhero Gallery, 174 Owhiro Bay Pde, Wellington.

At Events

Celebrate the beauty of our underwater forests on screen and in your home – my artworks are available for purchase at screenings of Seaweed, A Love Story. Find upcoming event details at www.exploreyourcoast.co.nz.

Arrange a Private Viewing

Get in touch to arrange a private viewing of large-scale photographic works and limited-edition canvas prints, or to discuss custom prints tailored to your space.

‘Underwater Forests of Wellington’ on display at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne to 29 Sep 2025.

‘Giant Kelp Study 2’  limited edition print on canvas, Te Mapunga Gallery, Island Bay.

Screening at venues around New Zealand. More about the award-winning short documentary and the trailer here (link)

‘Underwater Forests of Wellington’ at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne

Past Exhibitions

On display at Thistle Hall, Wellington. More info about the joint exhibition here
Watch the exhibition reel below…

Underwater Forests of Wellington - 1 Aug to 30 Sep 2025

On display at Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Wellington. 
Watch the exhibition reel below…

South Coast Arts Trail - 13 & 14 Sep 2025

Island Bay, Wellington 
Watch the short clip CREATIVITY AROUND EVERY CORNER about Nicole and the 2025 Arts Trail here…