Dysmetropsia, also known as Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, is a fascinating neurological condition characterized by distorted perceptions of size and distance, making objects appear different from reality. This unusual disorder forms the thematic foundation of an innovative exhibition by the renowned Berlin-based artist duo Elmgreen & Dragset.
Since they began collaborating in 1995, Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset have created a myriad of iconic artworks. Among their most celebrated pieces is the striking installation known as “Prada Marfa,” a full-scale boutique situated in the Texan desert. This installation exemplifies the artists’ persistent fascination with the recontextualization of everyday objects, prompting audiences to rethink how perception influences understanding.
At their recent exhibition at Pace Gallery in Los Angeles, marking their inaugural solo show in the city, the duo continues to engage with these themes. The exhibit, titled The Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, greets visitors with a life-sized silicone gallery attendant lazily resting at her desk, a neglected cup of coffee and a stack of books lying nearby. Much like the whimsical narrative it references, the expansive exhibit challenges viewers to ponder whether what they are witnessing is genuine or merely a figment of an intriguing dream.
As visitors delve further into the gallery, they encounter a collection of white marble figures crafted in two distinct sizes. Equipped with headphones and VR headsets, these unremarkable figures appear to be lost in their own digital distractions. Surrounding them are circular works from the Sky Target series, where mirrors and cloud-like patterns converge in stripes or concentric circles. These artworks not only reflect the gallery’s spacious ambiance but also create a warped version of the adjacent sculptures.
In an era marked by the complex dynamics of our increasingly digital existence, Elmgreen & Dragset compel us to reflect on how our physical presence informs our experiences, giving rise to the uncanny sensations that pervade our daily lives.
The Alice in Wonderland Syndrome will be on display until October 25. To explore more of Elmgreen & Dragset’s thought-provoking work, visit the gallery’s website.
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