Throughout the semester, we’re shining a light on the Art Department’s graduating MFA candidates as they present their final thesis exhibitions. These exhibitions are the culmination of years of dedicated study and artistic exploration, showcasing our students’ diverse talents and innovative approaches to art-making.

Nika McKagen works in traditional darkroom photography, sculpture, and writing. She is particularly interested in “what goes on both underground and in the dark.”

“My work is largely based in field research in caves and mines across the planet, and addresses the literal thresholds between the aboveground and subterranean realms,” McKagen explains. “The works that I create often live outside of the traditional photograph. They want to become objects in the world.”

McKagen’s final thesis exhibition, “Conduit,” will be on view at UW–Madison’s Art Lofts Gallery (111 N. Frances St.) from Feb. 24–28. A reception, which is free and open to the public, will take place on Friday, Feb. 7, from 5 to 8 p.m.

We asked McKagen to share insights into her exhibition. Below she talks about her work, “Untitled (gate).”