Ruth Nijsten is a surface pattern designer based in the Netherlands, creating original artwork for wallpaper, textiles and lifestyle products. Her practice includes licensing collections and developing bespoke commissions for companies in different markets. Research, drawing and colour exploration are used to build coordinated designs that can work across several applications. She studied fashion and textiles before developing an international career that included fashion design, teaching and collaboration with traditional textile makers in Asia. Her experience also covers illustration and design consultancy. After more than two decades abroad, she returned to the Netherlands and continues to work with clients internationally.