History's Horizon

Introduction

About the Artwork

History’s Horizon reflects Pickering’s landscape and history through a layered wood composition that invites quiet reflection. Drawing on elements of the city’s natural and cultural identity, including its creeks, the Altona Forest, wildlife, and the historic structures of Pickering Museum Village, the piece weaves past and present together. The wood materiality reflects the natural tones of the Community Centre, creating a harmonious relationship between the artwork and its architectural setting. Select areas of colour highlight elements of the village, allowing recognizable buildings to emerge within the composition, with a gold sun on the horizon bringing warmth. The piece acts as a window into Pickering’s stories, encouraging visitors to pause, reflect, and discover connections within the city's evolving landscape.

About the Artist

Nicole Bachan is an emerging artist and interior designer, and a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University with a Bachelor of Interior Design. Working across painting, digital illustration, installation, and mixed media, her practice is rooted in storytelling, material exploration, and the emotional relationship between people and space. Her work often draws from personal experiences, crafted stories, and moments, transforming familiar subjects into visually engaging narratives.

Influenced by her background in interior and design, Nicole approaches art with a strong sensitivity to atmosphere, composition, texture, and user experience. Her creative practice is driven by a passion for art as a form of connection and storytelling, with an interest in creating works and spaces that evoke emotion, curiosity, and lasting impact.