Merlin Nation

From the edges of counterculture to the heart of creative connection, my journey has been a dance between rebellion, reflection, and renewal.

Growing up, I was drawn to the wild, electric energy of outsider communities - skating and designing boards, crafting zines, and losing myself in music. These early experiences weren’t just hobbies; they were lifelines, places where creativity sparked community and where expression felt essential, urgent, alive.

For decades, I channeled this energy into a professional design career, earning recognition like BAFTA and D&AD awards. Yet, as the years passed, my focus shifted. I poured myself into value-driven work tackling society’s toughest challenges, driven by a deep desire to make a difference. But this intensity came at a cost. By 2022, post-COVID burnout forced me to pause, to step back and recalibrate.

In that stillness, I turned to art—not as a solution, but as a raw outlet for my frustration with the world’s slow progress. Yet, ironically, dwelling on fear and anger only deepened my confusion. It was through this struggle that a new voice emerged—one rooted not in division, but in compassion and connection.

This voice celebrates what unites us: community, hope, love. It’s a cons...

Nottingham Trent University - BA, Graphic Design - First Class Honours

The Other Art Fair. October 8th - 11th 2026. Truman Brewery, London. UK.

Black Swan Arts Open Exhibition, 7th August to 27th September 2026. Frome, UK.

‘Rich Inner World’ Solo show, 7th April to 20th April 2026, No6 Gallery, Bruton. UK.

‘Unity’ group show, 16th May 2024, Helm Gallery, Brighton, UK.

Art auction fundraiser for Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, Caravan Arts, 10th November 2024, Frome UK.

Folk group show, 2nd December 2023, Gallery At The Station, Frome, UK.