Painting Beyond Walls

Set in 2027, the story follows August Helm, a biochemist whose life spirals after discovering a scandal at his lab. Seeking solace, he visits his hometown in Wisconsin, reconnecting with old friends who embody various responses to societal decline and environmental change. As August navigates a new relationship with April, tensions arise from class divides and personal revelations. The narrative delves into themes of identity, community, and the complexities of desire, ultimately reflecting on the human condition in a rapidly changing world.