Hidden beneath the colossus of the Bank of America building in downtown Bakersfield, lies a gateway to a world of hookah-smoking caterpillars, Cheshire cats, mad hatters and white rabbits with time issues.

Hosted by the Arts Council of Kern, and located at the Younger Gallery on 1440 Truxtun Ave., “Down the Rabbit Hole” features art inspired by Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” The creatures comprised of oil paint, acrylic, India ink, and wood and digital pixels are depicted in their classical form as well as in more abstract renderings.

“I was in the mood to do something whimsical,” said Nancy Sharp, who was awarded best in show with her “A Very Cheesy Chesire” painting. “I had just finished a detailed portrait and wanted to do something a little more fun.”

Named after the first chapter in Carroll’s book, Nicole St. John, curator of the show, said “[Down the Rabbit Hole] was influenced by the upcoming movie and we wanted to present another interpretation of things.”

Also on display, “Outside in Wonderland” features art from the Visual Arts Workshop, a program for artists with developmental disabilities.

The premiere, held on Jan. 29, gathered a crowd of 150 people and four pieces were sold. Best in show went to Sharp’s “A Very Cheesy Chesire” with honorable mentions going to Beverly Carrick’s “Down the Rabbit Hole” and Tatiana Ianovskaia’s “Court.”

“Down the Rabbit Hole” and “Outside in Wonderland” will be on display until March 25. All art is available for purchase.