Gather, Navigate, Welcome, Fortify, Surrender, Save, Listen, Make Mistakes. These are some of the messages renowned artist Nikki McClure affirms in Collect Raindrops ($24.95), a gorgeous monograph of her paper cuts. Organized by season, these delicate pieces exude an optimism that revolves around community, sustenance, parenting, and appreciating both urban and rural landscapes. McClure's work reminds us of the important things: the change of seasons, slowing down the world for a moment so we can actually taste it, looking up at the stars to dream. This reissue of the 2007 art book includes 64 pages of new, breathtaking art. At a smaller trim size than the original, this volume makes the perfect gift.
Nikki McClure is a self-taught cut-paper artist known for her calendar and gift line. She is the author and illustrator of Mama, Is It Summer Yet?; To Market, To Market; Apple; How to Be a Cat; and the illustrator of All in a Day, written by Cynthia Rylant, and May the Stars Drip Down, written by Jeremy Chatelain.