Chocolate Bunny 1983

Editor: So, this is Andy Warhol’s "Chocolate Bunny" from 1983, a screenprint. The bunny looks like it is trying to emerge from the shadows, it has an odd texture from this high contrast effect. What can you tell me about the symbolic meaning in Warhol's choice of a chocolate bunny? Curator: Consider the Easter bunny itself. It's a relatively modern symbol, associated with springtime rebirth. Warhol's bunny seems drained of that original meaning, rendered in a flattened, commercial style. He's pointing to the way cultural traditions get packaged and sold, right? Editor: Yes, I see what you mean. It’s a familiar symbol turned strange. Almost cynical. Curator: Exactly. What does chocolate symbolize to you? Editor: Indulgence, maybe. Certainly a simple, immediate pleasure. Curator: And putting these two symbols together - Easter and Chocolate? Warhol's saying something about our consumer culture and our attachment to these ephemeral, often superficial symbols of joy and ritual, devoid of spirituality. We consume joy like we consume a chocolate bunny. The black background feels funereal and austere at the same time, can you see that? Editor: Definitely, there’s a sense of emptiness in what should be cheerful and nostalgic. The original significance has been devoured and the remnants that stay with us as memories don't match the true emotions attached. Curator: I agree, a really powerful visual comment on memory and commercialism in his signature way. Editor: Thanks, this has really made me think about how Warhol was trying to portray this commodification of culture.