Art Beyond the Shell, an international creative collective also known as The Turtles, is making waves in the creative community with its unique mission to help people break out of their shells and embrace their authentic selves. Founded by Dualeh Oke, the collective creates vibrant spaces filled with music, art, and community-led storytelling, all centered around the powerful concept of curiosity as something sacred that needs to be nourished and cultivated.

The collective operates across multiple creative platforms, organizing events on dance floors, curating exhibitions, publishing zines, producing short films, and exploring various other forms of artistic expression. Their work draws inspiration from diverse cultural touchstones including 1990s and 2000s Cartoon Network programming, Black alternative fashion icons like Dennis Rodman, and classic Black sitcoms from the 1980s and 1990s.

At the heart of Art Beyond the Shell's identity lies their mascot, The Turtle, who appears throughout their creative universe in illustrative comic works, poster designs, and even as a beloved plush figure in photographs. According to founder Dualeh Oke, The Turtle represents someone who possesses curiosity, imagination, and creative ideas but struggles with social anxiety and reluctance to meet new people or explore unfamiliar spaces. This challenge is particularly relevant in today's world with increasing cost of living pressures affecting creative communities.

The Turtle character embodies the timeless wisdom of the classic fable "The Tortoise and the Hare," symbolizing those who approach life at a slower, more cautious pace. For Art Beyond the Shell, this mascot serves as a powerful representation of marginalized groups and communities. "The Turtle serves as a reminder to keep taking steps forward, even during the times you feel slow," explains Dualeh, emphasizing the importance of persistence and gradual progress in personal growth and creative expression.

Through their multifaceted approach combining visual arts, community engagement, and storytelling, Art Beyond the Shell continues to create inclusive spaces where individuals can safely explore their creativity and connect with like-minded people. The collective's work demonstrates how art can serve as a catalyst for personal transformation and community building, encouraging people to move beyond their comfort zones while honoring their own pace of growth.