If you've already visited the Mystic Seaport's new Thompson Gallery, you may have noticed the 15-by-60-foot work spanning the entry hall, by Nikki McClure. Made from just a single piece of black paper, with designs cut out with an X-ACTO, McClure's work is, no doubt, impressive. In fact, she's one of the most renowned papercut artists in the world. So it's easy to see why then the seaport has dedicated an exhibit, in the C. D. Mallory Building, to her work. The show, which is titled "Life in Balance: The Art of Nikki McClure," showcases 36 pieces, complemented by support materials and video. McClure, who lives on the Salish Sea in Washington State, greatly relies on nautical and seafaring inspiration — themes that are sure to pair well with a seaport visit. The show will run until March 4. The seaport is located on Greenmanville Avenue, Mystic; regular seaport admission is $28.95 adults, $26.95 for ages 65 and up and for college students with ID, $18.95 ages 4-14, free for kids 3 and under; (860) 572-0711, mysticseaport.org.