Who Am I?
Hello! My name is Nicole Lenz. I am a user experience designer, artist, and professional photographer. I am also a daughter, sister, and dog mom. In my free time, I enjoy working with my partner in crime, Jade the blue heeler mix, who I’ve trained since her rescue at 8 months old and has taught me the value of commitment and hard work as we tackle challenges and reap the rewards as a team.
Born in Silicon Valley, but raised in Vancouver, WA, I love creating memories with friends in this beautiful green part of the country.
Education
As a fourth-generation creative, art and design are in my blood, and my education began long before I took a single academic course. Raised by two design professionals, HCD methods were just a natural part of everyday life. I attended Vancouver School of Art and Academics – an art magnet school that married creative thinking with academics. My assignments required thinking outside the box to view everyday issues with a new and creative perspective. I am grateful to have had my artistic side fostered and encouraged at a young age.
With that strong foundation in design thinking, my education at Western Washington University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in user experience design, was the next logical step in pursuing a UX career. Although I loved my psychology classes, I really thrived in design. I learned quickly that when it comes to design, there is no right or wrong way to do things – just a better way. Design is infinite and always changing, and designers either evolve with it, or fall short. With a diverse background in art, from ink and colored pencil to Figma, Photoshop, and photography, I can adapt to the world around me and bring a comprehensive background and relevant skills to any role I take on.
My Skills
If you are looking to hire me as a designer, message me on LinkedIn!
If you are looking to hire me as a photographer, message me on Instagram!