De Nichols is a dynamic force in the world of artivism, seamlessly blending her roles as a designer, artist, author, and community organizer to inspire change and empower communities. Her journey from rural Mississippi to becoming a global advocate for social justice through art is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and commitment to making a difference.
Early Life and Influences
Born in Chicago but raised in rural Mississippi, De Nichols grew up in a community that mirrored the broader societal challenges of inequality and systemic injustice. Her early education in Mississippi’s Project Pass program for gifted students exposed her to a world of ideas and narratives that would later shape her work. Her family, particularly her grandmother, nurtured her creativity, encouraging her to explore storytelling and visual arts. This foundation of support and inspiration laid the groundwork for her future endeavors.
Education and the Birth of a Vision
De’s journey took a pivotal turn when her family moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where she attended a creative and performing arts high school. Immersed in the rich history of Memphis, a city central to the civil rights movement, De began to connect her artistic talents with social justice. This connection deepened during her time at Washington University in St. Louis, where she studied communications design. Her senior thesis marked a turning point, as a professor encouraged her to focus on working with people rather than solely on design. This advice propelled her into a career that combined her passions for art, design, and activism.
Artivism in Action: The Ferguson Uprising
De’s commitment to social justice was solidified during the Ferguson uprising in 2014, following the murder of Michael Brown. As a recent graduate equipped with leadership skills, De co-founded the Artivists STL collective, which created over 80 projects in collaboration with activists and community members. One of their most notable works, the “Mirror Casket,” a reflective sculpture symbolizing the lives lost to police violence, was later acquired by the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. This period of intense activism showcased De’s ability to harness the power of art to amplify voices and inspire change.
Expanding Horizons: Civic Creatives and Beyond
Building on her experiences in Ferguson, De founded Civic Creatives, a design firm dedicated to using art and design to address social issues. The firm implemented innovative programs like Design Serves, which taught young people design skills to envision better communities. De also hosted storytelling events, such as United Story, to foster dialogue and understanding among diverse groups.
Her work caught the attention of national and international organizations, leading to her involvement with the Clinton Global Initiative and other platforms that amplified her impact. Through these experiences, De honed her ability to merge art, design, and activism into a cohesive practice that empowers communities and drives social change.
Author and Advocate: “Art of Protest”
In 2021, De published her book, Art of Protest: Creating, Discovering, and Activating Art for Your Revolution. The book serves as a guide for young readers to understand the history and power of protest art, featuring examples from artists like Ai Weiwei, Nina Simone, and Keith Haring. De’s own experiences, including her work in Ferguson and collaborations with artists like Damon Davis, provide a personal and inspiring narrative. The book has been praised for its accessible language and vibrant illustrations, making it a valuable resource for aspiring “artivists.”
A New Chapter: Corporate Impact and Personal Growth
In recent years, De has transitioned into the corporate world, joining the YouTube team at Google as a Senior Product Inclusion UX researcher. In this role, she continues to advocate for racial justice and equity, applying her expertise to the digital space. This shift reflects her desire to balance her professional and personal life while maintaining her commitment to social impact.
De’s journey has not been without challenges. She has openly shared her struggles with burnout and the sacrifices she made for her work, including her health and personal relationships. These experiences have led her to prioritize self-care and redefine success, focusing on sustainability and balance.
Legacy and Inspiration
De Nichols’ work exemplifies the transformative power of artivism. From her early days in Mississippi to her current role at Google, she has consistently used her talents to challenge injustice and inspire change. Her story is a powerful reminder that art can be a catalyst for revolution, a tool for healing, and a means of envisioning a better world.
Through her art, writing, and advocacy, De continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers to harness their creativity for the greater good. Her journey is a testament to the enduring impact of artivism and the importance of staying true to one’s values while navigating the complexities of life and work.
Sources
https://denichols.co/
https://issuu.com/kirkus-reviews/docs/kirkus_120121_best_of_kids_teen_online/s/14154148
https://codesigncollaborative.org/we-design-online-exhibition/interviews/de-nichols/
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