I was and am, since when she first started giving signs of liking me. Mostly because we shared a few things in common and had the same artistic talent and all that. The whole reason this is going on is because I was too nervous to talk to her even when we were together. I can talk fine to any other person which does of course sound cliche but it's the truth.

Don't worry I'm the same way I have a hard time talking to the girl I like as well. But why are you nervous? She already likes you OP, the hard part is over. She already likes you for you, theres no need to impress her or anything, she notices you and likes what she sees. Essentially at this point you can say anything and it should't be awkward at all it's a chess move lol. your opponent is so distracted by there next move that you can make any move you want even risky ones. Same applies, shes already distracted by something thatt she likes (i.e. you) that it doesnt matter what you do. Send her a text talk to her, be yourself. You don't have to impress her if she already likes you so theres no need to be nervous. And it helps to picture her as just one of your regular friends, thats sometimes helps me talk to the girl I like. If you always place her on this high pedestal than youre always going to feel nervous, you either have to raise up your own pedestal or lower hers. Good luck OP message me on here if you need more confidence/advice.