The sketch "auberge camping" humorously critiques the modern craving for luxury within nature, juxtaposing natural wilderness with absurd signs of human indulgence. At a glance, the image projects a chaotic yet whimsical scene where humans and animals blur the lines of typical wilderness behavior.
The image humorously portrays campers who seem unable to disconnect from luxury, highlighting how camping has evolved (or devolved) into a "glamping" experience where people bring comforts that contradict the spirit of the outdoors. The presence of more than two fireplaces for just two people and a table with wine glasses pokes fun at the excessive comfort some campers seek.
The work takes this satire a step further by imagining the local wildlife adopting human behaviors. The yellow car with a deer at the wheel is especially striking—depicting the animal commandeering a vehicle as if it, too, were indulging in human conveniences. This playful reversal suggests a forest that mimics humanity's invasion, almost reclaiming it through mockery.
By endowing the animals with human traits and whims, the piece suggests a shared space where animals and people are equals in their absurdity. The chipmunk reaching for a sip of wine mirrors humans’ indulgent rituals, possibly hinting at how people see themselves as "adventurous" yet remain tethered to familiar comforts.
Skyler uses bright colors and somewhat chaotic lines, enhancing the sense of whimsy and disarray. The fiery reds and warm yellows around the trees suggest a blend of autumn and activity, while the green and blue tones in the background create a dense, lively forest. This mix helps underscore the contrast between the wilderness and the artificial elements (like the fireplaces and car).
This busy arrangement reflects the overstuffed nature of the scene itself—fitting for a critique of excessive camping luxury. The eye moves around constantly, taking in all the strange details, from the fireplaces to the table set-up with wine glasses. Each element competes for attention, much like each comfort item would in a cramped campsite.
