Full Breakdown
Coachella's Anarchic Hippos Return with 'Network Operations'
4/13/2026, 6:02:42 AM
The Return of Dedo Vabo's Hippos
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, welcomed back the installation art group Dedo Vabo with their latest project, "Network Operations," on April 10, 2026. This installation features actors in hippo costumes, humorously portraying bumbling media barons within a fictional communications conglomerate. The hippos, confined to a control room, provided a comedic yet critical commentary on corporate culture, as they flailed about in a space designed to mimic a corporate office.
Background of the Installation
Dedo Vabo's hippo project has a history dating back to 2008, originating in a room at the Cecil Hotel during Los Angeles's Art Walk. The installation has become a staple of the Coachella experience, last appearing in 2019. Over the years, the hippos have taken on various roles, including founding a power company and participating in the space race, all while delivering a satirical take on corporate mismanagement and societal issues.
Artistic Commentary
Derek Doublin, a member of Dedo Vabo, described the hippos as a reflection of society, infused with dark, absurdist humor. He noted, “This is your friendly global neighborhood multi-conglomerate telecommunications and broadcast company. They hold enormous power but they’re also clueless about where they’re going with it.” This commentary resonates particularly in a cultural landscape marked by significant corporate mergers and the influence of privileged individuals in Hollywood.
Audience Reception
Festival-goers expressed delight at the return of the hippos, appreciating the blend of art and satire that characterizes the installation. Vanessa Bonet, overseeing the operation, highlighted the challenges of managing the hippos, stating, “When you put a hippopotamus in a 10 foot enclosed space for 12 hours, they tend to go a little crazy.” The installation has garnered attention not only for its humor but also for its critique of the media landscape, making it a relevant addition to the festival's lineup.
Implications and Cultural Significance
The "Network Operations" installation serves as a commentary on the current state of media and corporate power, reflecting broader societal concerns about the direction of these entities. As audiences engage with the performance, they are invited to reflect on the absurdities of corporate culture and the often-unchecked power wielded by conglomerates.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When you put a hippopotamus in a 10 foot enclosed space for 12 hours, they tend to go a little crazy,” — Vanessa Bonet, Dedo Vabo
- “This is your friendly global neighborhood multi-conglomerate telecommunications and broadcast company. They hold enormous power but they’re also clueless about where they’re going with it.” — Derek Doublin, Dedo Vabo
The return of Dedo Vabo's hippos at Coachella not only entertains but also provokes thought about the intersections of art, media, and corporate influence in contemporary society.
