published 2014 by Abrams Books (reissue)
Every soul who has seen Nikki McClure’s art has loved it. I’m sure there are studies and statistics on that, trust me. It looks as elegant on an iPhone case as it does on a gift tag or greeting card.
But then there are books, and thank goodness she makes them.
This edition of Collect Raindrops has been reissued in an expanded form and a new format. It’s based on her ongoing calendar series, and begs to take up permanent residence on your coffee or bedside table. Don’t just stick it on the shelf. You’ll want this one at easy reach. It’s gorgeous to touch, to see, and to behold.
Here, her pictures are gathered by their season, each introduced with love letters to their very time and place.
“Some people just need help to see the obvious. And that’s what artists are for.”
That sentiment comes from this short film that demystifies her process but reveals a lot of magic. She calls it corny, but I call it lovely:
She says her paper cuts are like lace, and everything is connected. Before it’s in a book, can’t you picture what that art looks like held up against a light? Physically, the paper that remains envelops the paper that is gone. Like knots, or filaments, or branches. How beautiful then, that her subject is often community. Shared memories and experiences.
The contrast is what connects us. As much story lives in what’s been carved away as what sticks behind. But by simple definition, contrast means difference, and in design, your brain is searching for dominant elements. This art contrasts light and dark, filled and white space, and in those separations paints a portrait of community.
And then there’s the case cover itself. A web, a symbol itself of creativity and connection, binds the pages together.
Isn’t that remarkable?
- Check out Brain Pickings recent feature of Collect Raindrops here.
- Here’s a look at the previous edition’s cover.
Tagged: abrams, collect raindrops, contrast, light, negative space, nikki mcclure, paper cut 