ARTIST STATEMENT

Nickaji Hall

Nick Hall is a Chicago based artist originally from New England who specializes in pen and ink illustration and, more recently, small-scale work with recycled paper materials. Her work is partially inspired by her love and fascination with the “wee folk” of Irish and Scottish folklore, and The Borrowers by British author Mary Norton. Prompted by the concept of “reduce, reuse, recycle”, she turns shipping boxes and materials into miniature scenes and paper lanterns that reflect the concept of living sustainably and coexisting with nature. Each element is hand carved and crafted, while attention to detail is highlighted within the minute scale. Her work is intended to inspire curiosity in others while the small lights within her pieces signify a hope for increased environmental stability, and give new meaning to the expression “small is beautiful”. The Lighthouses series is on display for the first time at Studio Bootsie, curated by Nick’s artistic mentor and gallery owner Dawn Brennan.