One Line at a Time: Jason's Creative Journey

Meet Jason Nicholas, an artist whose passion for sketching, architecture, and creativity has led them on an inspiring journey of personal growth and connection.

From childhood drawings inspired by downtime to a career in architecture and teaching, his story is a testament to resilience and the joy of artistic exploration.

Let's delve into Jason's insights, experiences and dreams for the future—and get inspired by his journey! 

What inspired you to become an artist?

The journey to becoming an artist was like a winding path that I couldn't resist exploring. My early inspirations were a colorful mix of influences, from the gentle encouragement of PBS artists like Bob Ross to the imaginative worlds crafted by Jim Henson and Walt Disney. These creative giants showed me that art could be a bridge to new dimensions, a way to capture the magic and wonder of the world around us.

While in third grade, I had an accident that left me unable to participate in physical activities for about 6 months. Imagine no playground, no gym, no running around with my friends. While my friends were at gym or recess, I would go to the nurse’s office. One of the ways that I passed time was to draw. I would draw pictures of cars, houses, and make-believe maps. I was able to connect with my friends by showing them my drawings that I created while they were out on the playground.

Growing up, I was always fascinated by the built environment—whether it was the towering skyscrapers of New York City or the quirky charm of a coastal shack. This fascination naturally led me to architecture, where I found a perfect blend of creativity and structure. Sketching became my way of connecting with these spaces, a means to capture their essence and tell their stories through my own lens.

What did your first setup look like?

My first setup was extremely basic and practical - a sketchbook and a pen. Simplicity allowed me to sketch on-the-fly no matter where I was. Since then I have added some additional pens, color pencils, markers, and watercolors. I have also added some EDC organizers such as Lochby Quattro (for carrying my pens/colored pencils) and the Lochby Tool Roll (for carrying markers, paintbrushes, and other miscellaneous items.

Jason's artistic journey began with an eclectic mix of influences that offered a sense of wonder and possibility—which is a contrast to his first set up! The simplicity of a sketchbook and pen defined his early creative toolkit but sometimes, we don't need much to start. 

This minimalist approach allowed for spontaneity and adaptability, ensuring art could happen anytime, anywhere.

Was there a turning point that made you realize this was something you wanted to pursue in life?

My love of sketching architecture in a fast and loose style started at the University of Miami while studying architecture. In order to get feedback from my professors on my projects, I had to be able to sketch my concepts quickly (or they would be onto the next student). I learned that the end result didn’t have to be perfect, but that sketching was visual communication tool.

Do you have a day job, and if so, what is it?

My “day job” is mostly focused on teaching high school architecture and CAD classes. I don’t really consider it to be a ‘day job’, but a passion. I love being able to provide my students with opportunities to try something that they may never have had the opportunity to do before. I also have my architecture business that is currently running.

What is your favorite technique for staying consistent and ensuring you get practice as much as possible?

One of my favorite techniques for consistency is by carrying a sketchbook around with me wherever I go. My go-to journal is my Lochby Field Journal. I call it “grab and go creativity”. My Lochby Field Journal has traveled with me to places like New York City, Maine, and Washington. It will be making a trek to Europe in 2026.

I also have a Youtube channel that is dedicated to sketching architecture and urban sketching.

By doing livestream sketch sessions, it also helps to keep me practicing and encouraged to try new materials and tools.

How has your journey with the arts evolved over time?

My journey with the arts has evolved over time by going from sketching as something that I mainly did for self satisfaction, to expanding into a communication tool for connecting and encouraging others to pursue their own creative endeavors.

University was a transformative time for Jason where sketching became more than a hobby but a professional necessity. The ability to quickly and effectively communicate ideas through sketches was crucial for receiving feedback from professors.

Now, as a teacher, he gets to open doors for his students: ones that lead to creativity and exploration that many might never have considered. 

It's wonderful to see that apart from the evolution of his art, his career has evolved, too: a personal passion turned into a shared experience not just among students but also to an online community. 

How has your setup changed over the years?

Since the days of carrying mainly a sketchbook and pen, I have added some additional pens, color pencils, markers, and watercolors. I have also added some EDC organizers such as Lochby Quattro (for carrying my pens/colored pencils) and the Lochby Tool Roll (for carrying markers, paintbrushes, and other miscellaneous items.

Can you share a memorable story or experience related to your passion?

One day, while working as an intern for an architecture firm in Hoboken, I took a walk at lunchtime to Stevens Institute. Looking across the Hudson River towards New York City, I took out my sketchbook and did a few sketches of the NYC skyline. At that time, the Twin Towers were still standing at the World Trade Center. While sketching the skyline, I felt a special sense of energy - of place - while I captured the skyline with my pen. The mere act of putting pen to paper that day has ingrained that moment into my soul.

What has been the most rewarding part of sharing your journey on social media?

The most rewarding part of sharing my journey on social media has been creating a community of positive and caring creatives. I have received feedback from such things as giving people the courage to express themselves to having people who follow me for meditative/zen-like reasons.

What's a fun fact about you that your followers might not know?

I had a secret dream career of being a talk show or game show host.

What are your future plans or goals related to your passion?

My future plans are to be able to host travel sketching retreats where people who are looking for immersive cultural experiences come together for a unique holiday.

By sharing their work on social media, Jason has built a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who find inspiration, courage, and even a sense of calm in their art. The feedback he receives is a testament to the power of creativity to uplift and connect, turning a solitary practice into a shared experience. 

Who are your favorite artists?

Leonardo Da Vinci - especially the drawings in his notebooks.

The colors and whimsy of Peter Max.

The concept sketches of architects Michael Graves and Aldo Rossi.

The zaniness of Tim Burton

The on-the-spot creation of urban sketchers.

The inspiration of my creative mentor and friend, Michael Haun (aka Roo).

How did you discover Lochby?

I first discovered Lochby by seeing ads on Facebook. The first ad I saw was for the Field Journal and I was attracted to it’s rugged, worn look. I had been looking for an alternative to carrying around sketchbooks in a more portable way, so the timing was perfect to give the Field Journal a try.

What is your favorite Lochby product and why?

My favorite product, hands-down is the Field Journal. There is so much to love about it ranging from the ease of portability (come on, the strap handle is genius!) to the pockets and pen/pencil loops. And, it is just aging beautifully! It’s okay for a grown man to cry tears of joy for a journal, right? ;)

How does Lochby help you with your creative or productive pursuits?

I like ‘grab and go creating’. If I have to stop to find a pen or marker, it stops my creative flow. Using my Lochby Field Journal, Tool Roll, and Quattro keep my stuff organized and ready to ‘grab and go’.

What is your favorite art accessory and why?

Besides my Lochby gear, it would have to be Sharpies. Sharpies force me to be brave and commit to the lines that I throw down on paper.

We're always glad to know that we're a part of people's creative practices! It's definitely what we intended and it makes us happy that our gear can help contribute to Jason's pursuits to keep creating. 

What advice would you give to someone just starting to get into drawing, sketching, or any other artistic medium?

My SKETCH framework:

This framework isn’t just a set of rules but more of a guide for unleashing creativity and enhancing sketching skills. It’s something I delve into with a lot more detail in my workshops and videos, which can be a great resource if you’re looking to expand on these concepts.

Are there any common mistakes beginners should avoid?

The mistakes of not being open-minded, too rigid and expecting specific outcomes. The real part of creative enjoyment is the journey between point A and point Z.

Jason's SKETCH framework is a practical and encouraging guide for aspiring artists! Each step invites exploration and playfulness, emphasizing that art is as much about the process as the product.

Whether seeking inspiration in everyday life or embracing imperfections as part of the journey, this framework is a roadmap to creative fulfillment. 

How do you balance your passion with other aspects of your life?

Great question. I don’t think of it as balancing, but as always carving at least 10 minutes a day to do some sort of sketching. I find that I will typically sketch something at night before bedtime as it is a great way to wind down my brain’s busy day.

How do you stay motivated to continue your passion?

I ask myself “Who and How can I serve?” each day. I have a wonderful community on social media that I want to show up for and serve the best that I can.

Do you have a favorite quote or mantra that inspires your creative process?

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” - Leonardo da Vinci

Jason's story shows us that art is more than just a skill—it’s a way to see, connect, and celebrate the world around us. From sketching as a child to inspiring others through teaching and social media, he demonstrates that creativity can lead to profound connections and unforgettable experiences.

Want to join Jason as he continues to inspire others to pick up a pen and start their own creative journeys? Follow him on on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube where he goes by The Inkspired Life Artist.