My name is Nicole Lau, and I was born and raised West River in Bison, South Dakota, where I grew up working alongside my family on our 5,500-acre ranch raising Red Angus-Simmental cross cattle and Quarter Horses. From the barn cats to the mama cows caring for their new calves each spring, animals have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up on the ranch taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, loyalty, and taking care of what God has given us.

Art has also been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. Since I was little, I have always had a pen, pencil, or paintbrush in my hand, and I have never stayed away from creating for very long. Much of my love for art comes from the same western lifestyle that shaped who I am.

Today, I live in Armour, South Dakota, with my husband and our two little boys on his family farm. I work part-time as a dental office manager while also being a mom, wife, artist, and helping care for our own livestock. My husband and I are proud to continue the agricultural traditions and western heritage that we were both raised in. As a National Guard wife, I have also learned that life doesn’t always go according to plan. When something needs to be done, I am not afraid to roll up my sleeves, take matters into my own hands, and find a way to get it done.

At the center of our family are hard work, loyalty, honesty, and, most importantly, our faith in our Savior, Jesus Christ. Our faith carries us through the difficult times and reminds us why we continue working toward the life we want for our children. My goal is to use my experiences, my art, and the life we live to help teach the next generation that agriculture, western heritage, family, and faith in God can work hand in hand. In a world that can sometimes feel a little crazy, I hope to show others that staying true to where you came from, working hard, caring for God’s creation, and keeping your faith can help lead you toward where you are meant to be.