Wet N’ Wild, a textured UV print on mirrored acrylic, brings to life Alake Shilling’s fantastical beach scene, featuring Buggy Bear, a beloved character in Alake’s universe, enjoying a twilight dip as waves splash around him. As he clings to a rock for support, Starfish friends gather close, seeking shelter. Alake’s playful scene prompts us to wonder: is this a whimsical fantasy or a surreal nightmare?
Los Angeles-based artist Alake Shilling is celebrated for her vibrant depictions of personified animals, plants, and insects. Drawing inspiration from animated characters of her youth, as well as from Pop art and California Funk art, Shilling’s whimsical and evocative figures invite viewers into a world where expressive creatures live in colorful, imaginative landscapes.