Buzz
Two decades after the release of The Big Lebowski, The Dude remains iconic. Recently, a pixelated version of him appeared at a Los Angeles bowling alley, created by the renowned French street artist Invader, as reported by Artnet.
Street Artist Invader Finds Inspiration in ‘The Dude,’ the Laid-Back Protagonist of ‘The Big Lebowski’ https://t.co/AclW9piVOB pic.twitter.com/9IICN0Cdqg
— Artnet (@artnet) June 4, 2018
"His Dudeness" (a nod to Jeffrey Lebowski, portrayed by Jeff Bridges in the film) is featured among 29 new mosaics by Invader in Los Angeles. One artwork showcases an alien from the classic game Space Invaders—Invader’s trademark—as part of the street art showcase “Beyond the Streets.” The remaining pieces were hidden across the city, inviting locals and visitors to uncover them.
Invader’s depiction of The Dude showcases greater intricacy compared to many of the artist’s previous creations. Bowling plays a pivotal role in The Big Lebowski, and the mosaic was aptly placed outside the Shatto 39 Lanes bowling alley near Koreatown. The Dude is portrayed in his signature robe, V-neck tee, and sandals, though he holds a cocktail glass instead of his beloved White Russian.
Other works by Invader spotted across the city include a toy soldier, a maneki-neko “beckoning cat,” a ghost, and multiple invader aliens, with one even decorating a post supporting the Hollywood sign.
Invader s'expatrie vers Los Angeles à l'occasion de l'expo Beyond the Streets, et couvre au passage quelques murs de ses nouvelles oeuvres ? ? pic.twitter.com/dTzUHQ6luQ
— VIRTUTE (@virtute_io) May 28, 2018
As reported by Artnet, this marked Invader’s first public installation since facing criticism in February for placing mosaics on sacred temples and monasteries in Bhutan. The government removed the artworks, including one of a floating monk, following public outcry.
Invader, whose real identity remains undisclosed, justified his actions by stating, “My art tells a story, and I see no reason to exclude Bhutan from this narrative.”
