
Explore a World of Distortion at Elmgreen & Dragset's New Show
If you've ever felt your reality shift, you might find resonance in Elmgreen & Dragset's latest exhibition, The Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, on view at Pace Gallery in Los Angeles until October 25th. This unique showcase not only marks the Berlin-based duo's first solo show in the city but also invites visitors into a thoughtfully curated space where perception and reality intertwine.
Understanding the Concept: A Dive into Alice in Wonderland Syndrome
Elmgreen & Dragset take their exhibition’s title from a fascinating neurological condition known as Dysmetropsia, or Alice in Wonderland Syndrome. Those who experience this syndrome report distortions in size and distance that alter their perception of reality. By exploring these fascinating yet disorienting effects through their art, the artists push viewers to question how environments shape our experience of reality.
The Installation: A Journey Through Scale and Perception
The exhibition is structured into two halves: a full-sized iteration of artworks in the main space, coupled with exact half-sized replicas in an adjacent gallery. Here, Elmgreen & Dragset expertly choreograph a transformation of familiar gallery elements—objects appear to grow and shrink, creating a dreamlike quality that captures the imagination. As you enter the first room, you are greeted by a hyper-realistic sculpture of a gallery assistant who seems to have drifted off to sleep, setting the stage for the fantastical experience ahead.
Mindful Artworks: The Sky Target Series
Among the striking pieces on display are the Sky Target series—circular paintings that blend shimmering stainless-steel disks with images of drifting clouds. Each piece facilitates a dialogue between the observer and the surrounding atmosphere, as reflective surfaces engage with the viewer's presence, inviting a deeper connection between the observer and their environment.
Contemporary Reflections: The Intersection of Emotion and Technology
In a thoughtful juxtaposition, the exhibition features two notable marble sculptures depicting young men, both wearing VR goggles, representing a modern disconnection experienced in our tech-drenched world. This striking contrast between the ephemeral digital experiences and the timelessness of marble serves as a reminder of our collective quest for connection amid the increasing prevalence of virtual communication.
Conclusion: Engage with a New Artistic Perspective
The Alice in Wonderland Syndrome exhibition serves as not just a visual feast but also an invitation to engage with the complexities of perspective and perception in our daily lives. I encourage art lovers and design enthusiasts alike to immerse themselves in this playful yet profound exploration of reality. Stop by Pace Gallery and discover how these artists craft their narratives with both eloquence and exquisite skill.
Don't miss out on experiencing this remarkable show—it's a journey that transcends ordinary perceptions!
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