Hyperlexia: Sharkcat, 2026

Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford, Hyperlexia: Sharkcat, 2026

Bronze

Hyperlexia: Sharkcat is inspired by viral videos of cats dressed in shark costumes. Popping up on internet feeds as early as 2013, some have collected more than 10,000,0000 views, highlighting how quickly digital culture spreads. This piece presents a contrast to the lasting nature of bronze sculpture. Part of the Hyperlexia series, the work playfully explores the internet age alongside traditions of public statuary. 

Referencing the historical tradition of placing lion statues as symbolic guardians of entrances the piece reimagines symbolic protection through humor. Its hybrid form—a cat merged with a shark—echoes mythological creatures like chimeras and centaurs. The sculpture ultimately asks which social, cultural, personal, or political ideas feel important enough to be made permanent in public space.

Jeremiah Hulsebos-Spofford (b. 1983, Vermont) is a visual artist who makes sculptures and installations to address themes of reproduction, value, and digital culture with humor. Based in Chicago, he is Associate Professor of sculpture and Director of the School of the Arts  at Indiana University Northwest.