SOTA alumnus releases debut comic book 'Anime Goth'
School of the Arts alumnus Ian Wheelock welcomes all to “Haunted Mountain” for the release of his debut comic book, “Anime Goth.” The art show and comic release will run from 7 to 10 p.m. on Oct. 30 at eTc Streetwear Boutique, located at 907 Pacific Ave., downtown.
Wheelock is a recent graduate from Tacoma’s School of the Arts. In June, the artist ended his senior year with a culminating project in which he drew 73 individual portraits of every member of his graduating class. This project led to a paid commission during the summer, and his self-portrait even won a congressional art award. He’ll be attending the California College of the Arts early next year. But, before he leaves for Oakland, CA, he’ll unveil his comic book “Anime Goth” at his second solo art show “Haunted Mountain.” This dark show is in stark contrast to his summer-inspired solo exhibition “Ice Cream Aesthetique.”
With Wheelock trading the theme of ice cream and pastels for Halloween and Goth, viewers will now be treated to a spooky and clouded version of his Pacific Northwest during the fall. His tongue-in-cheek take on All Hallows’ Eve also sets the scene for the launch of his Japanese-inspired comic “Anime Goth.” Art inspired by Japanese culture and the theme of Halloween set to ambient alternative 80s music will have spectators spellbound in their passage through “Haunted Mountain.”
This is an all-ages event and attendees are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes. Artwork, the comic, T-shirts, prints, buttons, and stickers by Wheelock will be available for purchase.
–Tacoma Weekly staff