Nick Gibbard's work reflects a a life lived in London, Oxford, New York and his return to his roots in Cornwall. After obtaining a degree in Technical Illustration from Cornwall Technical College, he specialised in illustrating aerial maps. His first map was of Falmouth which, after 30 years, has been updated, and is the official free town guide, displayed in public locations in the town.

His working studio is the Marine Gallery in Falmouth.