CMU School of Drama


Monday, October 14, 2019

Tim Burton Launches 'Lost Vegas' Art Exhibit in the Desert City

Hollywood Reporter: Tim Burton spent a lot of time in Las Vegas as a kid. Growing up in Burbank, California, he frequently visited the desert paradise with his parents, and it would later be heavily referenced in his work. "Every element of grand Las Vegas is part of his memory: the Dunes, the Landmark of course, the Aladdin, the Sands," says Jenny He, Burton's curator, who for 10 years has spearheaded his museum exhibitions, which have toured the world and drawn millions of people hungry for a glimpse into the frightmaster auteur's creative process.

4 comments:

Ella R said...

Oh my goodness! I love Tim Burton so much and I clicked on this article so quickly once I read the title. I’ve never been to Las Vegas. However, I’m a cult following fan of Tim Burton. His movies played a large role in my childhood. Burton’s museum exhibitions are freaking incredible. Lost Vegas will be at the Neon Museum from October 15th until February 15th. I cannot believe that this is the first time in almost ten years that Burton will be staging an exhibition of his original FINE ART in the United States. Burton is so well known for his movies, but his fine art does not get the recognition it deserves. I am so excited for this exhibit. Ninety percent of what will be at the Neon Museum and around Las Vegas will be work that Burton has never shown before and eighty percent of the work was specifically made for this. That is so exciting!!

natalie eslami said...

I love the film work of Tim Burton, but I had no idea that he created installations! It’s really interesting to me that he’s going to have this new display of work in Las Vegas, because to me, the dark and stylistic “Burton World” is somewhat the complete opposite of the bright, loud, glitzy Las Vegas. Though, I can see the metaphorical parallel, where Burton describes the city as “a place where everyday rules seem not to apply”. I can’t believe Burton hasn’t displayed work in the USA in 10 years—it’s lovely that it’s coming back, and for newer generations to get a chance to view and process the experience. With this experience being described as “mesmerizing and spectacular”, I would expect nothing else from the man himself. The world of Tim Burton is honestly more like a universe—I love how the elements flow together, and how in this exhibition, Burton is incorporating made up characters from even 20 years ago.

Olav Carter said...

The speed at which I clicked on this article after reading “Tim Burton” is uncanny - comparable to Lightning McQueen’s final run in the Piston Cup fast. I’d love to visit this sort of art installation, as the idea overall seems so interesting, even beside the fact that its created by a personal favorite of film makers. Las Vegas is such an interesting place, with its mystery and blurred lines of danger and extravagantly fun, I could definitely see how growing up in such a town could morph an interesting mind and pose for a cool installation. In addition, I am happy to hear Tim Burton is receiving the Glow Award for his life’s work is an understatement. I’m admittedly shocked I didn’t hear more about him winning awards as a child. Growing up with the Corpse Bride, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Edward Scissorhands amongst others, I think the film maker and media producer most certainly should have earned more credit than he’s gotten. Not to discount the awards he has won, I just think he deserves more recognition overall, and what better way to get it than with an intuitive new installation based off of two things everyone loves: childhood and Las Vegas?

Elinore Tolman said...

Just like every teensger who went through an edgy punk phase, I highly enjoy the art style of Tim Burton. This might be weird, but I also have a deep love for Las Vegas. Just like Burton, I had many childhood experiences there that gave me an attachment to the place. I had no idea Burton was planning this installation so seeing this article came as a shock. It is perfectly fitting he would release it around Halloween and Christmas based on his brand. Based on the design, it looks like a warped and dark take on Las Vegas, which I adore since the city is known for being so lively and colorful. It draws you in and I have always admired that about Tim Burton’s work. It is an instillation I would love to visit and would give me a perfect reason to return back to Las Vegas again.