"At the center of ‘Wild Side’ is a fascination with the expressive geography of the feminine face and figure, which I shape into entities of raw emotional energy.” - Alex Spalding
The Wild Side Collection by Alex Spalding takes shape as a fictional beauty magazine that celebrates power, imagination, and untamed human nature. The collection explores the contradictions of selfhood—beauty vs. unease and allure vs. alienation. This portraiture of pop art-style expression invites viewers to insert their point of view, internal narratives, and emotions onto a ready-made canvas.
In this collection, Alex collaborates with AI in the creative process, using it as the lens through which these images unfold to guide the painting process: a layering of vinyl-based Flashe paint with expressive brush strokes on wood panels. The final look emulates screen printing and the primal elements of color and form.
The Wild Side Collection encompasses larger-framed works titled The Wild Side Series and a smaller series titled The Wild Side Studies. While the Wild Side Series may appeal to more experienced collectors, Wild Side Studies is ideally suited for collectors at the precipice of building their portfolio and offers a comparable price point.
A conversation piece in its own right, this collection offers the grit and subtlety of feminine expressions ranging from sensual and seductive, as seen in “Boss Queen” and “Wretched” to the innocence and demure of “Neptune Rising” and “Haunted.” It’s ideal for curated experiences with seasoned and beginner collectors interested in emerging art with a nostalgic pop art feel.
The Wild Side Collection is for those who are:
- Lovers of contemporary figurative art that are bold, provocative statement pieces.
- Admirers for elevated iconography and pop art.
- Captivated by intense expression.
- Seeking emotionally resonant work that challenges viewers without explanatory devices.
- Interested in artists at the vanguard of collaborating with AI technology.
- Cultural and social critics.
- Part of progressive institutions.
Pushing the boundaries of exploration through the fine line of glamorization and sanctification of the feminine expression, if Women Who Run With the Wolves had a visual companion, it would be the Wild Side Collection.
To feature the collection at your gallery or create an immersive experience with your collector’s community, contact Alex at info@aspaldingart.com. You can view more of Alex’s work at www.aspaldingart.com and follow his artistic journey on Instagram @aspaldingart.
written and reviewed by ShaVaughn Elle, Writer and Content Strategist