Immerse yourself in four unique installations in “Worlds To Life” at Essex Art Center

Exhibition Runs from October 18 — December 6, 2025

Lawrence, MA – Essex Art Center invites art enthusiasts and curious minds to immerse themselves in the enchanting exhibition, “Worlds To Life,” running from October 18 to December 6, 2025. Located at 56 Island Street, Lawrence, this unique show features immersive works by four talented contemporary artists, including Frenemy, Popil, Mariana Martins, and Gregory Pierce.

Step into a world where imagination knows no bounds! Visitors will encounter an array of surreal and whimsical creations, including a teary, 7-eyed shark, a gargantuan wooden owl, a magical forest filled with fae, and a Saturday morning cartoon experience that will transport you back to your childhood. Each installation invites guests to explore the interior landscapes of the artists’ minds, intricately crafted using elements of animation, painting, illustration, and sculpture.

Meet the Artists

Frenemy

Frenemy is a vibrant multidisciplinary artist with over twenty years of experience in street art, murals, illustration, tattoos, and video games. Known for crafting whimsical universes filled with quirky characters, Frenemy has showcased his art across Asia and collaborated with notable clients like Converse and Universal Music. Currently, he is working on a graphic novel titled "Cosmic Safari" and the immersive video game "Imaginarium.” His delightful children’s book, "Kimbop Was Born To Explore," is also available on Amazon.

Popil

A dynamic illustrator, painter, animator, and Augmented Reality teacher at Apple, Popil captivates audiences with her vivid style and creative storytelling. Her adventures around the globe fuel her artistic imagination, inspiring her to produce content with profound impact. Having authored seven books in Asia and participated in environmental causes in the Arctic Circle, her animated work "Coral Reef Chronicles" has garnered acclaim at international film festivals, showcasing her rich life experiences and understanding of the world.

Mariana Martins

Mariana Martins is an Brazilian American artist who weaves magic into every frame with her stunning 2D animation. Fascinated by the eerie and whimsical, Mariana explores the enchanted realm where the physical world meets imagination. She has created unique works for cultural icons like Cheech and Chong and the prolific artist Ralph Steadman. Mariana’s work has come to life in Time Square in New York City and during live painting events hosted by local organizations, including The Lawrence Partnership and Mass Development. As an active member of the International Creative Community “Ghost Club,” she constantly seeks ways to push the boundaries of her craft.

Gregory Pierce

Gregory Pierce is a true renaissance man, blending artistry and craftsmanship in every project he undertakes. Whether sculpting or creating stop-motion animations, he meticulously handcrafts every detail to bring the wild and imaginative visions from his mind to life. Describing his process as a compulsion to create, Gregory draws on a wealth of skills acquired from trade work and his bachelor's degree in stop motion. His innovative approach combines a variety of fabrication techniques, resulting in pieces that integrate both physical and digital elements. Beyond his own artistic endeavors, Gregory is a dedicated supporter of fellow artists, fostering creativity within the community. His captivating work has been showcased at Superchief in Los Angeles.

Join us at the Essex Art Center to experience “Worlds To Life,” where creativity knows no limits and the unexpected awaits around every corner. For more information about the exhibition and the artists, please visit www.essexartcenter.org.

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