Currently at KP Projects Gallery in Los Angeles, Greg “Craola” Simkins (featured) has a show on view through June 17th entitled No Strings. The new body of imaginative work features paintings (including the massive 6′ x 9′ piece seen above), drawings, as well as a few limited editions. Continuing to explore the rich world he has created, the locally-based artist was inspired by the story of Pinnochio and the idea of escaping reality which can be seen in the surreal imagery featuring his signature hybrid amalgamations as well as some more experimental paint splotch based pieces.

Simkins further states – “In painting this show, I found myself examining my own life and insecurities while looking at my role as a father and seeing my sons make choices and their repercussions. I feel like I am always battling becoming one of those boys who were turned into donkeys on Pleasure Island. These childhood stories, along with a brush loaded with paint have assisted me as I navigate through these paths and try to save the strings which knit me to my own conscience.”

Discuss Greg Simkins here.