The James Castle House is thrilled to welcome Boise-based interdisciplinary artist Hallie Maxwell (she/her) for a 10-week residency. Selected after a nationwide call and announced in October 2024, Maxwell works with installation, audio, video, drawing, and performance to explore inherited cultural identities, loss, and language.
“As a descendant of hibakusha — survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima — I have inherited sets of complex lived experiences tied to migration, loss, and trauma,” says Maxwell. “Through my use of traditional Japanese materials, I show an attempt to bridge my exterior and internal identities. My work is not a reflection of Japanese or Japanese American culture but rather speaks to the journey I take in understanding identity.”
Inspired by James Castle’s unique art-making techniques, Maxwell plans to experiment with new materials and push the boundaries of her own creative process. Recognizing Castle’s experience as a deaf individual, she is also interested in exploring the erasure and concealment of language as it relates to family history.
Maxwell earned a bachelor's degree in art from California Lutheran University and a master's degree in visual arts from Boise State University. She is a recipient of the International Sculpture Center’s 2023 Outstanding Student Achievement in Contemporary Sculpture Award. She has participated in Artist-in-Residence programs at Cove Park, Surel’s Place, The Common Well, and MING Studios. Her work can be found in the City of Boise’s COVID Community Collection and in Boise State University’s Student Union Building Permanent Art Collection. Maxwell is a contributor to createid, a production of Idaho Public Television. Learn more at HallieMaxwell.com.
The community is invited to engage with Maxwell and her work at the following events (all times MT):
Inside the Studio
Workshop
Final Presentation
Learn more about the James Castle House residencies.
About the James Castle House
The James Castle House is a historic site and museum serving as a testimony to the legacy of self-taught artist James Castle. As stewards of this legacy, the James Castle House is responsible for managing Castle’s historic living and working spaces, art and artifact collections, and offering public opportunities to engage with the site. More information: jamescastlehouse.org
About the Boise City Department of Arts & History
The Department of Arts & History is Boise’s local cultural agency dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging through accessible and place-based arts and history. Our mission is to cultivate a distinct sense of place which reflects Boise’s rich past, diverse communities, and unique natural setting. Our operations empower and serve Boise residents as we create opportunities that nurture and sustain Boise’s past and its creative economy. More information: boiseartsandhistory.org
