Nocciola The Drawer (Hazel Oakes) is an illustrator and mural artist, spreading her joy for life one splash of colour at a time! Specialising in bright, bold and joyful artwork, weaving the human figure with lively patterns. Using colour as her superpower, her work aims to uplift, inspire and celebrate people and places.
She is deeply inspired by the relationships between people and the environments that foster strong communities. A nomadic optimist, her love of travel and connection drives her to seek out the stories, energy, and joy that unite us. Translating lived encounters into expressive murals and digital illustrations that transform public spaces into welcoming environments.
Socially engaged placemaking sits at the heart of her practice, with a commitment to sharing community voices and elevating the aspirations of women and girls. In early 2024 she founded Strike Collective, a women-led collective in County Durham, bringing together local creatives to collaborate on public-facing projects. She champions the power of art; in public spaces, for everyone and to bring people together.
