Abide In Wonderland 2012

Editor: This vibrant piece, "Abide In Wonderland" by Dave Macdowell from 2012, seems to mash up "The Big Lebowski" and "Alice in Wonderland". It’s a surreal and humorous take on these iconic stories. What strikes you most about this collision of cultures? Curator: The combination immediately sparks thoughts about subversion and appropriation. The piece seems to critique cultural icons and challenges the traditional notions of the “hero’s journey” from both narratives. The Dude in Wonderland, so to speak. Editor: How does that subversion play out visually? Curator: Note how elements from both stories are mashed up in one setting: we have Walter Sobchak in Alice's attire and The Dude, with props linked to both tales such as Folger's coffee, "half & half," hookahs, and "The Eagles" record album cover. It's not just humorous; the placement of objects could reflect an intent to provoke and question, inviting us to consider themes of power and societal norms. The Cheshire Cat appears completely unconcerned, right? How does his perspective impact this Wonderland? Editor: It’s as though nothing surprises him! Perhaps a comment on the absurdity of it all? Curator: Exactly! The artist's choice to position The Dude and Walter from "The Big Lebowski" as Alice and the Mad Hatter is a very specific and potentially radical choice. Are they resisting societal norms? Editor: I think it highlights the original stories in new, thought-provoking ways! Curator: Agreed, understanding that the piece may not only serve to poke fun but aims to inspire deeper understanding and encourage questioning and conversation regarding both tales' legacy. Editor: Absolutely! This piece really challenged my assumptions about appropriation in art.