A step inside the world of the creatures and creations of Minu and Reiko, A Curious Nature is open this week at Thistle Hall.

Minu’s creations are influenced by European folk tales and traditional book illustration, as well as the contemporary illustrations in pop and street art culture. Her cute characters reveal an often melancholic and almost mischievous side at the second glance. Originally from Germany, Minu now works as an illustrator, printmaker and toymaker in Wellington. Her work is known from her participation in several group shows in Wellington, as well as her appearances at the New Zealand Artshow in 2010 and 2011. Her prints and toys are available on Felt. The show contains a selection of her prints from 2008 to 2011 as well as new work.

The very old, and much loved, soft toys depicted in Rieko’s portraits seem to be reluctant to reveal their stories. Her anthropomorphic animals are placed in sceneries that seem to be taken from almost forgotten childhood tales. Both subjects have a curious nature giving the viewer a window into their character and feelings. Her acrylic paintings are influenced by the pop surrealism movement, while maintaining a romantic innocence. Originally from Japan and now based in Wellington, Rieko studies at Inverlochy Art School and this is her second exhibition.

A Curious Nature is open at Thistle Hall on the corner of Cuba and Arthur Streets in Wellington, from 11am till 7pm from Wednesday 30 November until Sunday 4 December.