Artwork copyright Kelly Lyles. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Spamster, 1998

Kelly Lyles
American (born 1957)

Location: Marysville-Pilchuck High School, Marysville

About the Artwork

Spamster is part of a series of humorous pun-inspired paintings of rodents by artist Kelly L. Lyles. This piece depicts a hamster holding a can of Spam, bordered by an ornate, illustrated frame. Lyles states that the creation of this series provided an outlet for her sense of humor, and remind us that "laughter is a universal language that breaks down barriers and heals the spirit."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Marysville School District.

About the Artist

Seattle-based artist Kelly Lyles paints, wears, and drives her art. She is well-known for her wildly themed "art cars" that are elaborately decorated with found objects and images. She creates her still-life and figurative paintings in a realistic style, and they often highlight humorous and witty stories.