The must-see art fair this fall
After 36 years tucked away in storage, the forgotten fantasy, Luna Luna returns! In 1987, Luna Luna made her debut in Hamburg, Germany as the world’s first art-themed amusement park. Inspired by avant-garde Austrian artist, André Heller, who wished to create a playful environment in which art could be enjoyed by all. The original Luna Luna Park was comprised of rides, games, and attractions. These attractions showcased the work of famous artists including; Jean-Michel Basquiat, Salvador Dalí, Sonia Delaunay, Keith Haring, David Hockney, Roy Lichtenstein, and Kenny Scharf. Heller encouraged these artists to tap into their childhood fantasies to create a dreamlike amusement park… which is exactly what they did. From Keith Haring’s Carousel to Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Ferris wheel, Luna Luna Park brought these masterpieces to life.
Luna Luna’s Original Attractions and Artists:
Take Keith Haring’s carousel for example; it exemplifies his iconic style depicting bright colors, bold lines, and cartoonish figures. Much to André Heller’s desire, the carousel was a playful project, equally enjoyed by both adults and children. While the carousel may not have the overt messaging of works like Ignorance = Fear or Untitled (1982), the multisensory experience on the spinning carousel emphasized imagination and the joy of shared cultural experiences— Heller’s key objectives for Luna Luna amusement park.
Short-Lived Amusement
Unfortunately, Luna Luna amusement park was short-lived due to legal and financial constraints and subsequently packed away into storage. After 36 years, we can thank rapper Drake and several others for coming together and bringing Luna Luna back to life. In the spring of 2024, the resurrected Luna Luna reappeared in Los Angeles, California, and will soon arrive in New York.
Luna Luna takes New York
At last, Luna Luna will open her doors to the public on November 20th, 2024 at New York’s cultural institution, The SHED. Here, visitors will have the opportunity to view original attractions from 1987. While the rides are only for observation, visitors can still explore Salvador Dali’s pavilion or take their (unofficial) vows at André Heller’s wedding chapel. New additions include work from various emerging artists who remain a surprise until the opening day. In the same space, The SHED will host performing artists to enhance and maintain the multisensory experience envisioned by Heller.
Luna Luna’s resurrection is an exciting moment in the art world. With rapid advancements in technology, the growing opportunities to enjoy art in an immersive, untraditional setting are promising. No doubt, we are curious to see what the future of immersive art holds!
Want to know more about the art fairs of 2024?
Our partners at “Roadbook” have gathered a list of the most exciting art fairs and festivals that took place this year.
