So, what I'm considering is this - a bass that is visually dynamic and functionally erring on that focus, and/or one that works within functional conventions.
Speaking of funk, here's a relative design currently available;
the new Warwick Bootsy Collins Star Bass
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/f8/warwick-releasing-bootsy-collins-signature-bass-1046993/
http://www.talkbass.com/forum/f8/warwick-releasing-bootsy-collins-signature-bass-1046993/
Also included is the current tb thread related. A quick read through gives an impression on the prospective (target?) owners of a bass like this. Point - exactly who is the target buyer? Of course a company like Warwick can do anything they want and more or less do it for marketing exposure only. (as only a small number of these will actually be sold)
Good taste aside, another cartoon bass is the Gene Simmons Hatchet bass. As it is made by Cort instead of Warwick, it's much less expensive - in fact it's cheap, so more players will buy it. Woo Hoo! Look, it's a hatchet! ~~~~~
I'd like to further illustrate my points but imgbox is still not allowing me to download new pics, so I'll have to continue this... eventually.
In general, I agree with most opinions that the original concept is cool. I could do it. It would look visually dynamic, it would be playable and would sound like a P-bass. It would also be really long, heavy and to transport it would require swaddling it in a blanket, as no case or gig-bag would fit. Like Warwick, I can make it as a promotional prop. (but 1 of 1) Once I document it - it would end up hanging on a wall, which is ok I guess as it would look cool hanging horizontally on a wall. Perfect for a rec room/rehearsal space. Could use it for a youtube music vid and then get contacted by Clay Smith Cams for copyright infringement... it's not like making it is really the problem - it's what for is the point. In my mind this is stalling me at the moment.
The other version relates to reality and usefulness and yet can still be unique and (wait for it) visually dynamic. Regardless of my source, I've altered it enough in my own hand to not worry about legalities. Maybe no one would want such a 'look'/finish on their bass or guitar. Maybe it would inspire an idea someone has but can't artistically/conceptually realize it, so that's where I come in - that's my turf. To be continued...
I ordered a new (refurbished) Mac just now as mine is ancient and won't accept browser upgrades anymore (so I can download pics) so until that is all sorted, no pics to help illustrate any further discourse. Can still communicate... so will check in, just no pics.