Contributed by Shaina Lopez-McKeown
“Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin
With such a quote to be considered, then perhaps there is no better time than Scorpio season to open the doors of the Valley’s first oddities and curiosities shop: LA GALERIA. Owned and operated by Shaina Lopez-McKeown, a lifelong Alaskan - the shop offers a unique variety of taxidermy animal specimens, curated antiques and locally created products that tailor to a more somber aesthetic.
Situated in the Dome style building off the Palmer – Wasilla highway, La Galeria presents a modest first glance. There is nothing outside to yet indicate the experience available once you enter through the door.
“I’m doing that intentionally for now. I want to warm my environment up gradually to the idea of an alternative themed gallery. I’ve received a lot of pushback by other business owners to not have a bold presentation. However, I don’t think the concept of an oddity shop has quite made its way into this state, which is astounding to me considering Alaskan animal products are put up as top-tier in the lower 48 throughout the circuit. I really believe it is time to invest in local oddity culture. “
Both Alaskan and outside animal products are featured on the shelves. A quick glance through the store will provide you a Burtonesque view of taxidermy bats hanging off of crossbones fixed inside of vintage lanterns. Next to those, some large red bellied Piranhas from Brazil were placed to swarm through antique frames backed by dark velvet. A common product theme or shadow boxes filled with dried flowers accenting stuffed snakes or skulls.
Wet specimens are also available. Sheep brains are placed in old ball jars topped with glass lids. Snakes floating in amber bottles. Most popular tend to be the jarred octopus varieties kept supplied within the stores’ numerous hutches.
Although the goal isn’t simply to shock your senses, but rather to embrace the cycle of life and death through artistic expression while upholding a respectful approach.
“I don’t make things to offend anyone. I don’t deconstruct a crucifix to place inside the construction of Moose buns, attach it to a rusty farm tool to bother you. Rather, I’m thinking about how I grew up around the farm lands in the Butte. Being a kid in a religious family, praying all the time.. Then finally running into the woods to find a hunting cabin full of moose bones to drag around. This is a way to encapsulate memories and move time forward.”
La Galeria is open Tuesday - Friday 11 - 5pm and Saturdays 11 - 6pm @ 1705 N Ranch Rd in Palmer