Maybe it was the weird, cool art. Perhaps it was the prospect of avenging our childhood failures at Connect Four. Either way, as soon as we heard about Down the Rabbit Hole—a twice-monthly art, music, and yes, board-game event at the Bar in Hollywood—we were smitten.

Don't get us wrong: We love art galleries, but there's just something about being able to sit on our asses during an art show that appeals to our socially awkward and lazy sides. Apparently, we're not the only ones, because the Sunday-night gatherings have become a popular draw for folks interested in a mellow evening and affordable artwork.

We sussed out who's in charge of this unconventional art show and found a little sprite by the name of H.B. at the other end of the rainbow. Hannah B. Wood is a quirky blond and a longtime Angeleno—as is her brother, actor Elijah Wood, who can sometimes be spotted spinning tunes behind the decks. We recently ambushed Miss Hannah, who kindly explained how the event got started, addressed the issue of hallucinogenic mushrooms and gave us some tips on competitive Scrabble.


Why did you decide to have this kind of event in a bar (or rather the Bar)? Do drunk art patrons splurge more?
When the idea first came about, it was pitched as a monthly event at Magnolia, a restaurant that shares owners. But one of the owners, Laurie Mulstay, thought it'd be better suited and fun to have it every week at the Bar—a little unconventional, but that's what's been great. It's casual enough for people to let their guard down, and then of course, among other more unmentionable things, get drunk and buy lots of art…

What are your thoughts on the Los Angeles art scene?
The talents that I have met and seen in the past year—that are so below the radar—have truly uplifted me. The L.A. art scene is so diverse and rich. But these are people from all over the country that have roots here now.

What's the weirdest art piece that's shown up?
Hmmm…each week there's always a good story or something pretty interesting. Sometimes it's not the art so much that's weird, but the artists that bring it. It's been an adventure.

What's the average price for a piece?
Most of the pieces at the bar go for a couple hundred dollars. We've sold things for $15, and we had one piece that was going for $650,000! It was a huge pointillism-type piece of Madonna. The gentleman who made it wasn't even selling it! (And I don't think he would have gotten the price he wanted for it at the Bar anyway.) Apparently, he was saving it to send to her.

What's the process—do you hand-select each artist?
Most of the artists come about just by word of mouth—a friend of a friend, someone introducing themselves on a Sunday. There's no formal application; they show me some of their work, and we talk about an idea for their show. I honestly can't remember the last person I turned down! I just enjoy supporting people in their art, even if it's not my favorite kind. It might be someone else's.

How did you choose the name "Down the Rabbit Hole"? We're you on hallucinogenic mushrooms at the time?
I liked the idea of a journey—sober or not—of great imagery and stimulation. It seemed suiting for an art show: unlocking ideas, inspiring people.

Do you take a commission?
Nope, I don't take commission.

How many drawings will kAt Philbin be showing for the Jan. 20 show? (I luff them!)
I'm not exactly sure how many drawings kAt will show! I think at least 10 or so, which is the average. I can't wait!

OK, Hannah, level with me: How competitive do the board games get?
Depends how sober people are. And what kind of music is playing. People don't really compete during Billie Holiday, but when "Eye of the Tiger" plays…watch out.

Grab your Scrabble dictionary, work up a thirst, and head to Down the Rabbit Hole on Sunday, Jan. 20 for a quite exciting display of weird animal drawings by Missouri artist kAt Philbin. (The capitalization style of her name is only the beginning of the weirdness. An octopus with a mustache? That's another story.)

Alie Ward is Events editor for Metromix Los Angeles.