MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Artists have seemed to flock to the Upper Peninsula over the years, securing their spot with a lake superior inspiration.
Niik Creative Co. was opened by Northern Michigan University Graduate Niika Hatfield in early 2020. Crafting her own direction through life is something that’s always played a factor with the Marquette local business owner, but launching an art studio after graduating wasn’t always in the plan. “I was born and raised in the area so Marquette is home to me and it feels really good to still be here and creating as part of the community,” commented Hatfield.
Niikah’s mission is to create with functionality and beauty, and noted that the inspiration from the north woods in the Upper Peninsula has never wavered. “I think an artist needs an audience and a community to thrive and also I think a community really needs art in order to have that sense of meaning,” said Hatfield.
The UP seems to be flooded with local artists and creators which could present a lot of difficulty when opening up a similar shop. Hatfield said on the contrary, the UP brings an abundance of inspiration that is meant to be shared with the community. “The beauty of the space is, one, I get to create everything in house and it’s also something that I’m really wanting to keep cultivating community and creativity I don’t want it to be just about me,” continued Hatfield.
On Saturday, November 25th, Niik Creative Co. along with six other invited artists will be hosting the annual Holiday Art Market for Small Business Saturday. This event will be happening at Niik Creative Co.‘s location on Presque Isle. Members of the community can shop for jewelry, wood crafting and Niik Creative’s ceramic art.
“We’ll have a collection of artists here and they’ll build a shop around and see everything from some paintings to jewelry and herbal goods along with of course all my ceramic work,” continued Hatfield.
Niikah has always called Marquette home, but is aiming to reach outside the state with her art this coming year to inspire others with the UP spirit. If you’d like more information on Niik Creative Co. and Niikah’s story, go to www.niikcreative.com.
“I think a lot of us up here creating in this space are listening to nature and kind of articulating what we see and discover,” said Hatfield.
