John Nicol was born in Te Kopuru. He came to Auckland in 1965 to attend Elam School of Fine Arts at Auckland University. After receiving his diploma he taught at various secondary schools until 1983. He then travelled overseas and when he returned he worked as a house painter and plasterer continuing to teach art part time. From 1987 to 1992 he lectured at Carrington Polytechnic. More recently he lecturered at Elam School of Fine Arts. He obtained a Master of Arts in Art History in 1999. Nicol exhibited frequently at a number of Auckland galleries. He creates predominantly three dimensional works and sculptures. He has moved from works depicting elements of the earth and the pacific through to symbols that are less specific but more mysterious. Nicol has been a finalist in several art awards over his career including the Benson and Hedges Art Award, Wanganui Travel Art Award, and the Team McMillan Ford Art Award. He is represented in the collection of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Auckland City Art Gallery and the Bath House, Rotorua. Privately, Nicol is represented in collections in New Zealand, Australia, USA and the United Kingdom.