November 2021

Original painting: Acrylic on gessoed hardboard, 6” x 12”

Award: 2022 Scholastic Art & Writing Competition Silver Key Award

Camping on the Alaskan shores and listening to alien abduction stories initially sparked my inspiration for this painting. I was not initially going to frame it around an alien abduction theme, but I felt like the painting flowed better with this narrative. Of course, all the fish look shocked to find strange “aliens” approaching them. I used perspective to transition the viewpoint from the salmon to the fisherman to guide the viewers to the conclusion that this painting is from the salmon’s point of view. Routine fishing trip or alien abduction? Everyone sees life through a different perspective.

ABOUT THE ARTIST: Alain Soltys-Gray

Born and raised in Juneau amidst glaciers and old growth forests, Alain has been inspired by the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska. From an early age, light and reflections of the rainforest caught his eye and have continued to be recurring elements in his art. Already an award-winning artist, Alain aspires to share his unique view of Alaska with you through his paintings. Alain is currently attending college at the Rhode Island School of Design, planning to bring what he learns back home. Follow him on Instagram: @alain_soltys_gray

ABOUT THE PRINTS:

Alain's original painting is printed on metal. MetalPrints™ represent a new art medium for preserving photos by infusing dyes directly into specially coated aluminum sheets. Because the image is infused into the surface and not on it, your images will take on an almost magical luminescence. The ultra-hard scratch-resistant surface is waterproof/weatherproof and can be cleaned easily - just avoid direct sunlight. Non-ammonia glass cleaner, water, or isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol can be used without harming the print surface. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to wipe off the print. No cleaners containing ammonia, abrasives, or corrosive chemicals should be used.

Each print is made with a float mount hanger so the print is ready to hang - no frame needed! These hangars are attached to the back of the print, and float the print 1/2-inch off the wall when hung. The float mount hangers pictured are on a 4" x 6" metal print.