Nicole Cudzilo is a New Mexico-based artist and educator whose work explores the intimate connection between nature and the human experience. Known for her evocative environmental self-portraits, she uses her own form as a subject and symbol, becoming both part of the natural world, and a contrast to its grandeur. By embracing the moments in-between movement and stillness, action and reflection, each photograph becomes a sort of visual meditation, accenting the delicate tension of what it means to be human—both fragile and powerful, deeply connected to the natural world, yet inherently individual. Also a commercial beauty photographer, she’s had work featured in Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, & more. Specializing in dreamy outdoor campaigns, she works with models within the landscape to highlight emotion and mood. She studied photography under Laurie Klein, a student of Ansel Adams, and has exhibited internationally, winning numerous awards with pieces held in private collections worldwide. ​With a passion for education, Nicole teaches workshops throughout the country for professional and amateur photographers. She mentors high-school students and participates in visiting artist and lecture programs in various public and private schools and has been an advisor and contributor in numerous photography publications.