“Working primarily through site-specific interventions, Nick Raffel demonstrates a keen sensitivity to the particularities of each context. A generous and gentle form of institutional critique aptly describes Raffel’s practice. Rather than adopting an oppositional stance, Raffel engages institutions from within, attending closely to their structures, rhythms, and internal logics. He frequently collaborates with specialists across disciplines—designers, fabricators, architects—expanding the conceptual and material possibilities of his work.” – juror Ionit Behar, Marilyn and Larry Fields Curator, MCA Chicago

“The works of Nick Raffel are exquisite interventions in spaces yearning for change. Using simple, yet precise machines to create apertures and opportunities for movement and circulation within buildings, Raffel is an artist committed to improvement via the redirection of energy. These are gentle, yet persistent provocations: if art can tangibly improve an environment, why not embrace those changes for the long haul?” – juror Daniel Merritt, Chief Curator, Aspen Art Museum

Nick Raffel’s work in sculpture and installation considers architectural and infrastructural systems which facilitate the flow of air, water, and gas. Recent works intervene in pre-existing mechanical systems, questioning their efficiency, sustainability, adaptability, and healthfulness. Raffel considers passive solutions to energy production and the ways designed objects, including his sculptures, are situated within and relative to natural forms of energy.

Nick Raffel (b. 1982, Portland, Maine) lives and works in Chicago. Upcoming and recent exhibitions include Bodenrader, Chicago; Artists Space, New York City; Cushion Works, San Francisco; Swiss Institute, New York City; Bridget Donahue, New York City; Fondazione Prada, Venice; Ezra and Cecile Zilkha Gallery, Wesleyan University, Middletown; Prairie, Chicago; Pied-à-terre, San Francisco, and Kunstverein Nürnberg. Raffel holds an MFA from the University of Chicago.