UW-Madison MFA Student Showcases "Kayfabe" Sculptures

Christian Ulloa's exhibition explores themes of human performance and contemporary masculinity through pop culture references.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Christian Ulloa, a sculptor and MFA student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is showcasing his exhibition "Kayfabe" at the Backspace Gallery in Madison from February 9-13. The exhibition features meticulously crafted trompe-l'oeil sculptures that draw inspiration from the cultural spectacle and contemporary masculinity.

Why it matters

Ulloa's work aims to use humor and pop culture references to explore themes related to the performative nature of human behavior. As an MFA student, this exhibition is an important milestone in his artistic development and provides insight into how emerging artists are grappling with issues of identity, masculinity, and the spectacle of modern life.

The details

The "Kayfabe" exhibition will be on display at the Backspace Gallery in the Art Lofts building in downtown Madison. There will be a reception for the exhibition on Thursday, February 12 from 6-8pm, where visitors can meet the artist and view the sculptures.

  • The "Kayfabe" exhibition runs from February 9-13, 2026.
  • The reception for the exhibition will be held on Thursday, February 12 from 6-8pm.

The players

Christian Ulloa

A sculptor and MFA student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison whose work explores themes of human performance and contemporary masculinity through pop culture references.

Backspace Gallery

An art gallery located in the Art Lofts building in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, where Ulloa's "Kayfabe" exhibition will be on display.

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The takeaway

As an emerging artist, Christian Ulloa's "Kayfabe" exhibition provides a unique perspective on how contemporary sculptors are using humor, pop culture, and explorations of masculinity to comment on the performative nature of human behavior in the modern world.