Grand Central Madison

Hat Trick

Red Nose Studio

"Hat Trick" by Red Nose Studio

A small claymation figure falling from the sky down into a large blue hat.
"Hat Trick" (2022) by Red Nose Studio at Grand Central Madison.
A claymation middle age man playing with miniature trains.
"Hat Trick" (2022) by Red Nose Studio at Grand Central Madison.

About the project

"Hat Trick," a two-minute stop-motion animation by Red Nose Studio, celebrates the opening of Grand Central Madison and the inauguration of five-channel LED screens at the north end of the concourse. The LED screens, each measuring 17’ wide and over 7’ high, will engage passersby with an immersive and interactive experience. 

"Hat Trick" depicts a playful cat-and-mouse chase through Grand Central Madison between a man and his bowler hat, inspired by the magical feeling of traveling throughout New York on the MTA’s vast system. Portals appear and whisk the characters from one place to another with motion, timing, and surprise, doubling as a metaphor for the experience of moving through everyday life. 

The work is presented by MTA Arts & Design with technical support from ANC Sports.

About the artist

Red Nose Studio creates 3D illustration and stop-motion animations that make images come to life with textures, light, and elbow grease. His illustrations and animations have been recognized by American Illustration, Communication Arts, and HOW. The Society of Illustrators has awarded three golds and a silver medal for both illustrative and motion work. The stop-motion animated films have screened at various festivals including Los Angeles International Short Film Festival and Montreal Stop-Motion Film Festival. He has authored and illustrated "The Look Book," and has illustrated the children's books "Here Comes The Garbage Barge," "The Beginner’s Guide to Running Away From Home," and "The Secret Subway."