As a child, Jean Jullien (previously) preferred to spend his time immersed in the pixelated worlds of video games, embarking on adventures with action figures, and reinventing himself in RPGs. Imagining a universe parallel to his own offered a joyful refuge when he needed it most.

Jullien summons this memory for JUJU’s Castle, an enormous, multi-gallery exhibition that invites viewers into the artist’s youthful fantasyland. Rendered in his signature flat, two-dimensional style, monsters, wizards, menacing mushroom creatures, knights, and friendly faces stand ready for play. From tile-esque floors to brightly painted walls to fiery lights lining dungeon walkways, each detail captures Jullien’s exuberant and witty aesthetic. “Years later, as the world seems more and more dire, I’ve decided to visit Juju’s castle once more and to open its doors to the public,” he says.

Eighty small paintings accompany the larger installations and sculptures and are vignettes of make-believe and amusement. There are games of chess, hand-made masks and costumes, and even an elephant slide like those found on the playgrounds of Taiwan.

Although his works often appear lighthearted, Jullien frequently responds to some of today’s most pressing issues, including capitalism’s grip on society and the all-too-relatable feelings of existential dread. JUJU’s Castle is another response to contemporary life. He says:

With constant news of war, global warming, pandemics, and dystopic technological advancements, it seems like our daily lives have become more and more anxiogenic. But there is resistance in the form of escapism, and people have resorted to it in many ways. From video games to role playing games, cosplays, niche literatures, and online communities, people have found means to deviate from the harsh reality.

If you’re in Shanghai, visit Nanzuka Art Institute before October 26 to immerse yourself in Jullien’s world. Otherwise, explore more of his work on his website and Instagram.