Creating Peculiar Art In An Increasingly Surreal Universe

By Wolfgang Weisser.

Surrealism is destructive, but it destroys only what it considers to be shackles limiting our vision.”

-Salvador Dali

Some art defies convention. Some art defies convention and gets you funny looks even from most art lovers. From steampunk to goth, from darkwave music to cyberpunk poetry, we’ll explore how these subcultures fuel the creativity of our panelists. Prepare for a journey through time, space, and the depths of human imagination.

Panel Setup:

  • Moderator: A charismatic figure with a flair for the dramatic, guiding us through this odyssey of the esoteric. *cough cough can we get Jeff to do this if we flatter him enough?*
  • Panelists: A curated selection of artists from the fringes of creativity, each a master of their unique domain.

Discussion Format:

We kick off with a theatrical entrance or a quirky performance to set the stage for an unforgettable experience. The moderator will weave the audience into the conversation, ensuring you’re not just spectators but participants in this celebration of the peculiar.

“OH WOW, THAT’S A LOT OF WEIRD PEOPLE IN THE AUDIENCE TONIGHT.”

Themes & Questions:

  • In the Labyrinth of Leather and Gears: How has the steampunk subculture ignited your artistic fire?
    • Moderator’s Twist: Let’s pledge to fuel these creative flames by sharing and supporting their work.
  • Unholy Unions: Share your story of the most surprising art form collaboration you’ve encountered.
    • Moderator’s Twist: Your support can keep these unique partnerships thriving. How will you contribute?
  • Fringe Finances: How do you keep your art alive when the world isn’t watching?
    • Moderator’s Twist: Commit to being a patron of the peculiar. What can you do to support?
  • The Black Sheep: How has being different at art events turned into your strength?
    • Moderator’s Twist: Celebrate the outliers. Let’s commit to seeking out and celebrating art that defies norms.
  • Symphony of the Strange: How does unconventional music inspire your art?
    • Moderator’s Twist: Music and visual art are co-conspirators in creativity. How can we bolster this synergy?
  • Purity of Peculiarity: How do you stay true to your art in a world that often pushes for commercial success?
    • Moderator’s Twist: We vow to value art for its originality, not just its market appeal.
  • Urban Legends: What myths about underground art do you want to dispel?
    • Moderator’s Twist: By myth-busting, we pave the way for new creators. How can we help?
  • Digital Dungeons: What’s your most effective strategy to connect with fellow enthusiasts in the digital age?
    • Moderator’s Twist: This is a good time to remember to tell a friend to support a weird artist.
  • Time Machine Advice: What wisdom would you share with your younger self in this bizarre realm?
    • Moderator’s Twist: Pledge to mentor the next wave of oddball artists. What would you say to them?
  • Future Visions: What does the future hold for art living in the shadows?
    • Moderator’s Twist: We are the gardeners of this unique garden; how will we nurture it?

Interactive Segment:

  • Pledge of Peculiarity: Make a commitment to support niche artists — buy their work, share it, or attend more events. We won’t actually make you take a pledge. But we’ll sure think it hard.

Massacre Mansion Display Setup & Exhibition

Prepare for a Hauntingly Good Time!

We’re bursting with excitement to announce that Massacre Mansion, the infamous indie haunted house from the Catskills, is bringing a slice of their terror to our show!

Though the full haunted house won’t be gracing our event, get ready for an immersive experience with Massacre Mansion’s unique setup. They’re bringing tables filled with eerie materials, chilling artifacts, and all sorts of spooky paraphernalia that will give you a taste of what makes their haunt legendary. And the best part? Members of the family that runs Massacre Mansion will be here to perform makeup demos and other terrifyingly fascinating demonstrations that’ll teach you the art of fright!

Imagine meeting the minds behind the scares, learning how to transform into your own horror character, or just soaking in the atmosphere of Halloween magic. It’s your chance to get up close and personal with the creators of one of the most talked-about haunted houses in the Catskills, without having to brave the full mansion!

Don’t miss this golden opportunity to dive into the world of indie horror, meet the masterminds, and maybe even gather some inspiration for your own spooky endeavors this Halloween season! Mark your calendars and come prepared to be amazed – but remember, the real terror is just a setup away!

#MassacreMansion #HalloweenVibes #CatskillsHaunt #SpookySeason #HorrorDIY

Tabletop Gaming: Escape From The Dungeon of Mad Lord Watziznutz

Axe man.

Escape From The Dungeon of Mad Lord Watziznutz! The world’s first (to me, at least) fantasy RPG escape room! Cunning traps, devious puzzles, all on a time limit. One session only! Character sheets and instructions will be provided. 3-4 hours.

About Your DM:

Jeremy was born in a house he built with his own two hands. His schooling included classics and modern topics, and merciless taunting by his peers. He retreated into fantasy, and has come out the other side as a talented and charismatic gamemaster. He ran his first campaign in 2003, and it crashed and burned. He then traveled to Tibet to train with the secret masters, and his second attempt a decade later was a huge success. Jeremy now has experience in multiple versions of D&D, as well as Call of Cthulhu, GURPS, Champions, 7th Sea, and many more, and he only runs scenarios he has written himself.

It's THAT dungeon!

___

Jeff’s note: I was reminded of this quote and added it:

“I have always thought that the DM’s route to any fantastic achievement in such literature was through a very personal course, most certainly inspired by reading and study or other such related matter, but not actually ‘implanted’ or done for them. I see it as would an engineer who designs, tests and then builds a car. 

There is great worth in all of its many stages and definitely in the end result and it is all yours. Any alternate course offers no equal worth. By comparison, one might buy the car, as they do the adventure, and make it theirs with a little tinkering here or there (as with a car, by adding dual exhausts, chrome, etc.), but that’s not pure creation and the value added experience in this case is negated.”

-Robert J. Kuntz

The Night Of Definitely Not Summoning Cthulhu

Totally not Cthulhu.


The Night Of Definitely Not Summoning Cthulhu:

Gather, acolytes, under the starless night for the vaguely sacred Ritual of Definitely Not Summoning Cthulhu. We speak the forbidden words:

“PLEASE, CTHULHU, DON’T EAT US”

and so forth,

each syllable twisted with Hyperborean wisdom, ensuring the slumbering beast remains undisturbed. We trace the ancient eldritch symbols in the darkling air.

The Gathering in the Shadow of R’lyeh:

In this hallowed hall, we wear the robes of the ancient cultists, our garments a whisper of the depths, though our intent is far from the abyss. The air carries the scent of incense, not to summon, but to cloak our gathering in an air of playful mystique. We sip “The Elixir of the Deep,” dark in hue yet probably not poisonous, a nod to the rituals of old without the dire consequences except maybe death and being eaten by wombats.

We discuss the mythos in..did we already say “hushed tones”? Hushed tones again, then.


Ritual of Not Summoning Cthulhu:

Assemble in a circle around the makeshift altar, an old table draped in dark cloth. Light candles, their flames flickering with mock solemnity.

Chant:
“Iä! Iä! Cthulhu fhtagn… not!”

Draw a protective circle with chalk

Gesture:
Raise hands towards the sky, palms outward in a gesture of mock defense, then quickly lower them: “Just kidding!”

Invocation:
“From R’lyeh’s depths, we call not thee,
For tonight is for mirth, not eldritch glee.
Stay thy slumber, oh Great Cthulhu,
For our gathering is insufficiently cooked.”

The Mohican Resort Hotel

Mohican Movie.

In the shadowed heart of Lake George, NY, lies the Mohican Resort Motel, a sanctuary for those who dance on the edge of intrigue, the ideal setting for the mysterious conclaves of WonderPlaceAlpha.com. Here, where the Adirondacks guard their secrets, you’ll find Efficiency Units, each a covert chamber with two queen beds, a kitchenette, and a private patio that whispers of clandestine meetings under the cover of night. For those seeking deeper seclusion, the 2 Bedroom Deluxe Apartments are a fortress of luxury with a king bed, a queen bed, equipped with a full walk-in kitchen and a dining area for five, perfect for plotting the next phase of your adventure.

The Mohican Resort Motel is where your narrative unfolds. Dive into the outdoor pool, a liquid mirror reflecting the sky, or slip into the warmth of the heated indoor pool, a place where whispers are lost in the steam. The game room and exercise room offer the perfect facade for espionage or relaxation. Whether you’re here to court danger or to escape it, the resort’s dedication to quality ensures that every moment is charged with the tension of a thriller.

As you weave your plans for Wonderplace Alpha, consider the Mohican Resort Motel for its opulent, lush, and enigmatic ambiance. With a meticulous eye for detail, this motel provides an escape into a world where your event can unfold with the intrigue of a spy novel. Secure your stay and let the Mohican cloak your gathering in an aura of mystery. Visit mohicanmotel.com for more details and to claim your own covert retreat in the heart of Lake George paradise.

The Painting Badger – Artist Guest of Honour!

The Painting Badger!

“The juggernaut that is steampunk, like Dr. Loveless’s giant mechanical spider in the 1999 film version of ‘The Wild, Wild West,’ seems capable of crushing all naysayers.”

– Paul Di Filippo

We’re incredibly excited to announce that The Painting Badger will be bringing us his spectacular and gobsmackingly unique art to us from the far away United Kingdom as our Artist Guest of Honor! His artwork, whose Steampunk, scifi, fantasy, weird and wonderful scope needs to be seen to be believed, features a mesmerizing blend of vintage machinery, intricate gears, and a touch of Victorian elegance, all melded with a dash of futuristic imagination. He’ll be flying in for his first US appearance!

The opportunity to have him showcase his creations here is a rare treat for our community. His steampunk art not only decorates but tells stories, transforming everyday spaces into realms of adventure and mystery. Having The Painting Badger as our guest of honor is a testament to our commitment to celebrating innovative art forms, and we can’t wait for attendees to experience the excitement and creativity he brings from across the pond.

See his work! Hear about his art! Purchase his creations! Enrich your life! We can’t stop adding exclamation points! We are very excited! (You may have noticed.)

Winfield Winfield, Darkling Guest and Horror Author

Winfield Winfield.

:

About Winfield Winfield

Winfield Winfield is an acclaimed international author recognized for his gripping works in body horror, psychological horror, and science fiction. With a unique narrative style that intertwines the macabre with deep psychological insight, Winfield has carved a niche for himself in the horror genre, captivating readers with tales that linger long after the last page.

Born with an insatiable curiosity for the eerie and unexplained, Winfield’s journey into storytelling began early. His Amazon author page reveals a childhood fascination with local music and a deep-rooted passion for exploring the darker aspects of human nature. This curiosity led him to become an “Editor’s Choice” award winner for his early work, setting the stage for a prolific writing career.

Winfield’s novels, such as “Cult of the Eclipse,” exemplify his talent for blending horror with profound themes. The novel, described on Amazon as an “electrifying ride of body horror, delusion, and why people are lured into malicious cults,” follows a mother’s desperate search for her runaway child, only to uncover sinister truths in a seemingly familiar town. His ability to portray the grotesque alongside human vulnerability has earned him a dedicated following.

Beyond his writing, Winfield is deeply engaged with his community of readers and fellow horror enthusiasts. His professional page on a prominent social media platform highlights his active participation in discussions about horror’s role in literature and its reflection on societal fears. He often shares insights into his creative process and the inspirations behind his chilling tales, fostering a vibrant dialogue with his audience.

Residing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Winfield remains a local music nut and can be found engaging with fans on various online platforms, where he shares updates on his work and delves into discussions about the horror genre. His website offers a comprehensive look at his bibliography, including reader reviews and personal reflections on his writing journey.

Winfield Winfield’s presence in the literary world is marked by his commitment to exploring the depths of human emotion through the lens of horror. His works not only entertain but also challenge readers to confront their fears and question the boundaries of reality and imagination. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his haunting narratives, Winfield’s stories promise an unforgettable journey into the unknown.

The Zombie Invasion

Zombies.

“I like my zombies slow and I like my zombies stupid.”

~Seth Grahame-Smith, “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies”

It’s almost certainly not fatal to RSVP for this event on Facebook, if you’re on Facebook.

And then it’s Saturday afternoon and time for the Zombie Invasion! If you wish to hang about our Wasteland area, our Zombies will be emerging from Darkling and entering the Wasteland.

Our Zombies are members of the cast. They are not likely to actually eat your brains, smart though you are. They will, instead, most likely offer you a sticker to turn you from (whatever you currently are now) to (a zombie version thereof).

They’ll be stumbling/shambling your way with only one thought: time to eat your brains!

…give you stickers.

Time to give you stickers!

You’re welcome to run from them, interact with them, take pictures with them, invite them to your parties…hey, they’re not OUR zombies. We don’t own them or anything.

Captain Dante’s Fight Show

Matthew Martino

“I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion.”

~Alexander The Great

Banned from the Pubs

  • Description: A highly immersive and interactive show that features games, audience participation, and rabble-rousing cheers! Captain Dante has travelled the world over, and at every port and tavern he visited, there was too much drinking, wenching, gambling, and fighting. Now, banned from the pubs, Captain Dante must resort to doing all his drinking, wenching, gambling, and fighting in public among the fine people attending the faire! Join Captain Dante as he starts a fight with you!

About Matthew Martino

  • Background: Matthew Martino has been a performer and producer of immersive and interactive events for nearly a quarter century. He graduated from Fairfield University with a focus on Visual and Performing Arts and has performed all over the country. He launched Savage Grace Entertainment in 2003 to produce stage shows, Halloween events, and theatrical games. Currently, he serves as an Immersive Experience Consultant with Sage Interactive Consulting.

Where Matt Has Performed:

  • King Richard’s Faire
  • The Arizona Renaissance Festival
  • The Carolina Renaissance Festival
  • The Sterling Renaissance Festival
  • The Colorado Renaissance Festival
  • The Robin Hood Faire
  • The Kang Arthur Faire
  • The Southern Connecticut Renaissance Faire
  • The Midsummer Magick Faire
  • The Vermont Renaissance Faire
  • The Massachusetts Renaissance Faire

The Temple of the Shark – Near Funky Sharky

The Temple of the Shark!


Welcome to the Temple of the Shark – Buckle Up!

Here’s your guide to an experience so delightfully off-kilter, it’s like discovering a perfectly tuned banjo in the heart of a black hole:

  • The Great Shark Summoning: Together, at the appointed time, we shall stand in a circle and summon the appropriate number of Sharks to
  • Dance of the Thousand Fins: Participate in what could be the universe’s most eccentric dance party. With your fin on, you’re part of a spectacle that’s as likely to realign your chakras as it is to make you question your life choices, in a good way.
  • The Oracle of the Deep: Get your future told by an Oracle whose advice is as reliable as a compass on a magnetized planet. Here, your fortune might come with a chuckle, not a chianti, and the only thing you’ll hear screaming is your sense of normalcy.
  • The Shark’s Roar: When the roar echoes, it’s like the universe pausing to raise an eyebrow at us. The silence that follows isn’t the quiet of lambs; it’s the moment of cosmic suspense before the universe decides whether to laugh or applaud.
  • The Blessing of the Waves: Step through our water tunnel, and you might find yourself in a reality where water is actually made of pure, undiluted weirdness. It’s a “you scratch my back, I’ll confuse your reality” deal with the sea.
  • Feast of the Finned Ones: Enjoy shark-shaped delicacies, where the only thing endangered is your diet plan. It’s a feast where even the most elusive cryptid would stop to savor the moment, possibly pondering if they’ve finally found their tribe.
  • The Shark’s Eye Challenge: Peer through the eye of the shark, and you might catch more than just hidden items; perhaps a cryptid or two, lost in the sauce of our dimension. If you see something, remember, in this universe, seeing is believing, sometimes.
  • The Great Fin Parade: March in a parade where chaos reigns supreme. While we can’t guarantee cryptid sightings, if one joins us, it’ll only add to the event’s charm, like an unexpected guest at the universe’s most bizarre dinner party.
  • The Call of the Abyss: Listen for the ocean’s reply, which might just be the confused murmur of a cryptid wondering where it took a wrong turn. If you hear something, it’s not the ocean; it’s the universe snickering at our antics.
  • The Blessing of Speed and Strength: Get ready for activities that’ll make you feel like you’ve channeled the spirit of a dozen cryptids. It’s like PE class if it were run by a cosmic jester with a flair for the dramatic.

So, dive into the wildness at the Temple of the Shark, where the laws of reality are more like suggestions, cryptids might just be your new best friends, and every moment is a testament to the universe’s love for a good laugh. Here, the silence isn’t of lambs; it’s of everyone holding their breath in anticipation of what happens next.