Presented by Jeffrey Deitch Gallery
Los Angeles-based artist Alake Shilling brings her unique artistic practice to the public, working with Art Production Fund to produce the site activation, Buggy Ball, 2023.
Shilling draws inspiration from her childhood obsession with the bright and playful aesthetic of Lisa Frank and after-school craft, as well as from the natural world and disco music. The artist's production results from a slow and reflective process; her characters embody emotions and feelings that reflect the human condition.
Focused on accessibility, Alake transforms her activation site into an access point for Angelenos to enjoy her work and kindle a child-like sense of joy through the game of soccer. The artist's designed soccer ball features one of Shilling's signature images, the bear. In her words, "the bear is cute and simple, making it easy for people to identify with."
Schilling’s custom-designed “Buggy Bear” balls will be featured at the Airport Soccer Field in a special collaboration with Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), who will be leading soccer clinics for adults and children throughout the duration of the fair.