Toy Gun Taxidermy Sculptures

Melanie Alves' Hunting Season Exhibit Speaks About Guns in Society

In a biting social commentary, artist Melanie Alves has created Hunting Season, an exhibition of taxidermy-like animals made from toy guns.

On display at the Shooting Gallery Project Space until March 8, Melanie Alves' sculptures are of wolves, deer and lions constructed using toy guns, chicken wire, plaster and toy soldiers. Hunting Season explores the issue of gun violence and the "manufacturing of a culture of fear" in America. Her use of toy guns and toy soldiers symbolizes our distorted image of violent guns into that of a playful thing of beauty, referring to her taxidermy pieces as "society's trophy to itself.”

While I'm sure not everyone will agree with Melanie Alves' message, Hunting Season is never the less an interesting and thought-provoking exhibit that is worth examining.

Social Commentary Through Art
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new ways to use art as a platform for social critique and commentary, opening up conversations and promoting change.
Repurposing Everyday Objects
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Find innovative ways to repurpose everyday items and materials, transforming them into unique and thought-provoking artworks.
Challenging Cultural Perceptions
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Challenge societal norms and cultural perceptions through art, encouraging viewers to critically think about the issues at hand.

Who This Affects Most

Art and Sculpture
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Integrate technology and unconventional materials into traditional art practices, pushing the boundaries of what is considered β€˜art’.
Gun and Toy Manufacturing
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Rethink the design and purpose of toy guns, considering alternative uses and creating products that promote non-violence and positive play experiences.
Gallery and Exhibition Spaces
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Redefine the gallery experience by showcasing unconventional and thought-provoking art exhibits, fostering dialogue and engaging a wider audience.
SCORE
3.4 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America
GENERATION
  • Gen Z
  • Gen Alpha
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 63%
Activity 32%
Freshness 8%

Solutions for innovators working at the edge of change. We help transform emerging ideas into practical, durable solutions by combining strategic thinking, creative exploration, and hands-on execution.

Trends © 2026 Trend Hunter Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LinkedIn Instagram X