top of page

Let’s Hang in the Wreck Room

tanith k

Three artists explore the power of play at Vulpes Bastille.


Art gallery with various colorful abstract artworks. "WRECK ROOM" text on the wall. Minimalist vibe, neutral tones, bright lighting.

‘Wreck Room’ by Craig Auge, Kylie McConnell, and Devin Goebel at Vulpes Bastille


When Vulpes Bastille announced their annual proposal call last year, artist Kylie McConnell initially pitched an open call of her own, asking if anyone wanted to link up to create something fun for the Vulpes Bastille space. When both Craig Auge and Devin Goebel responded to her query, she knew instantly that the three of them would make a banger. Individually, they explore themes of nostalgia, silliness, and found or chosen connections, and what is more fun than to play together?


The moment you step into Wreck Room, you are greeted by a soft bombardment of bright colors, textures, shapes, materials, and whimsy. This show fully invites you to play, to wonder, and to be silly. It gently activates the imagination and exercises that muscle throughout the entire presentation. By the end of your walkthrough, you can’t help but feel the much-needed reminder that art doesn’t need to be serious to be taken seriously.



Colorful beads hang beside a vibrant painting on a white wall. The painting shows a hand holding a device on a rainbow background.

Craig Auge | On the Line | collage, beads, leather, salvaged plastic and toys


Even the title of the show is a play on words. A “rec room” is a specific place where recreational activity happensit is a space for literal fun. Whimsy and play have the distinct power to break down doom, to remind people that life is worth living and experiencing. Two things can exist simultaneously: the harsh and hard reality that we are all currently facing and the imagination needed to survive and supersede said reality.



Four framed wooden art pieces on a beige wall. Each frame contains layered wood panels with vertical lines, taped on top. Minimalist design.

Devin Goebel | a hat on a hat (4) | letterpress print, plywood


Each artist pulls from their unique strengths and philosophies to create a fun and aesthetically joyful conversation that finds humor in the mundane and vagary in the everyday. Every piece is its own maximalist treasure trove, but the curatorial choices provide enough space for the artwork to breathe. The conversation never feels overwhelming or overstimulating, and there is always enough room to take in all the details before moving into a new and different dialogue.



Art gallery with paintings on white walls, a central partition displaying artworks, and exposed ceiling beams. An "EXIT" sign is visible.

‘Wreck Room’ by Craig Auge, Kylie McConnell, and Devin Goebel at Vulpes Bastille


McConnell, Auge, and Goebel remind us to make room for fun, snark, and silliness. It is important to include joy in our plans and our lives. Imagination is a powerful tool and one we shouldn’t forget to pack. This exhibition showcases the importance of playing together and that it is always more fun to do so with a friend. Things are grim, but not hopeless. Remember to find moments of laughter, humor, and peace. You deserve to smile.



Cardboard with floral pattern background, overlaid by black poster with text "MORE CHARMING THAN LUCKY" in blue letters.

Kylie McConnell | MORE CHARMING | acrylic on vinyl and fabric on panel, cardboard


‘Wreck Room’ ran at Vulpes Bastille from January 3rd to 24th, 2025.

Photos taken by Tanith K.

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.
bottom of page