Tank is more than a plush pink octopus—he's a cultural icon with tentacles that reach into the heart of this artist’s life. Originally created in 2022 as a cozy bedtime companion to fill the boyfriend void, Tank quickly became an inseparable presence. Since then, he’s been introduced to her real-life partner, Damian Schlegelmilch, and the trio has been happily cohabitating ever since.
Now a beloved household figure, Tank is often lifted dramatically into the air by Damian—much to the artist’s delight and amusement. This particular gesture has become a signature moment of joy in their home and now lives forever in paint. Tank has already been featured in over a dozen artworks, but this piece marks the very first painted portrait of Damian himself.
Soft, surreal, and full of heart, this painting celebrates the beautiful absurdity of love, companionship, and the delightful weirdness that comes with building a life together.
