Luna Luna: The Revival of a Forgotten Art Funfair
After decades of obscurity, Luna Luna, the world’s first art-themed carnival, has made a spectacular comeback in New York City. Originally conceived in the 1980s by Austrian artist André Heller, the fair featured groundbreaking collaborations with iconic artists like Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and David Hockney. Once forgotten, these vibrant attractions now take center stage at The Shed, a Midtown Manhattan art complex, delighting visitors with their timeless creativity.
The Vision Behind Luna Luna
Luna Luna debuted in 1987, blending traditional carnival rides with avant-garde artistry. Guests marveled at Salvador Dalí’s surrealistic Fun Dome, wandered through Roy Lichtenstein’s hall of mirrors, and rode Basquiat’s Ferris wheel. However, financial struggles cut the fair’s life short, leading to its dismantlement and storage in 44 shipping containers for decades.
The fair’s unique concept was to merge fine art with interactive entertainment, appealing to both seasoned art enthusiasts and casual visitors. Despite its early popularity, plans for a European tour faltered, and the legal disputes that followed relegated the whimsical fair to history—until American entrepreneur Michael Goldberg rediscovered it.
Unearthing a Hidden Treasure
Goldberg stumbled upon Luna Luna through an obscure blog and, captivated by its story, launched a quest to resurrect the long-lost fair. Collaborating with the original creator Heller and a team of investors, including global rap star Drake, Goldberg acquired the rides and artifacts without any prior knowledge. Though initial fears of irreversible damage surfaced, the vibrant restoration of pieces like Haring’s carousel and Basquiat’s Ferris wheel proved their resilience.
Luna Luna Today: A New Era
Reconstructed over two years, Luna Luna reopened to the public in March in Los Angeles before moving to The Shed in Manhattan. The exhibit now showcases the original rides alongside a modern soundtrack curated by artists like André 3000 and Jamie xx.
While visitors can no longer ride the attractions—now preserved as priceless works of art—the immersive experience still captures the fair’s playful essence. Performers, interactive light displays, and curated soundscapes create a carnival atmosphere that bridges past and present.
Controversy and Adaptation
One notable change has sparked debate: the exclusion of children from interactive access to the rides. This decision, driven by the priceless nature of the artwork, contrasts with the original vision of fostering interactivity for all ages. Despite this, many families visiting the exhibition express awe at the artistry on display, even if they can’t participate in the way Heller intended.
Plan Your Visit
Luna Luna is open at The Shed from November 20 to February 23, with plans for a global tour thereafter. Tickets range from $44 for adults to $241 for VIP Super Moon passes, with children’s admission starting at $25.
Rediscover this once-forgotten fantasy world and immerse yourself in a celebration of art, culture, and imagination.
