Q: Games can cultivate a creative and/or competitive spark—how do you keep your creative and/or competitive spark alive?
A: Never settling with being comfortable. I moved a lot when I was younger and so I have been unconsciously used to change. I am a such a sponge when it comes to learning about new cultures and subcultures because that’s how I learnt to fit in. So once I feel like I’m doing too much of the same thing, I pivot.
I draw a lot parallels from other disciplines that share similar wavelengths. To be able to see the world through their eyes and learn about their process is what is the most fulfilling for me. We’re all doing the same thing - turning what was once impossible, possible and setting a new status quo for someone new to challenge in the near future.
What also helps is taking your mind off of something that you are obsessive and passionate about actually resets your mind. It’s hard for me. My brain is wired in a way that it doesn’t stop and those who know me know that I don’t sleep. But I am getting better and being intentional about winding down and taking breaks. The moment you are relaxed, you find your way right back into your flow. And when you get used to resetting your mind, you keep your creative and competitive spark alive.
Q: Gamer Collection was inspired by the games of our childhood—what was your favorite game growing up? Is there a character, figure, or person from gaming (or any playing field) that you identify with?
A: It has to be a 3-way tie between Shinobi II The Silent Fury on Sega Genesis (it was the first video game I ever played), GoldenEye 007 on N64 and Katamari on Playstation. The latter really being one of my all-time favorites because it is the most ridiculous game that I would play for hours and it ends up being extremely therapeutic and stressful at the same time.
Follow Nicole's journey on instagram @the8project . How are you using your craft to boldly disrupt?