For decades, Luna Luna (Instagram) existed as little more than a myth—a surreal, art-filled amusement park conceived by Austrian artist André Heller in 1987. After being lost to time, this ground breaking project has been resurrected and reopened at The Shed in Hudson Yards, New York City. Originally celebrated for its visionary blend of art and carnival, the park now offers a new audience the opportunity to step into a dreamscape designed by some of the 20th century’s most iconic artists.
Luna Luna made history when it debuted in Hamburg, Germany, as the world’s first art amusement park. Heller’s vision was simple yet audacious: to merge fine art and playful amusement in a way that had never been done before. He invited a roster of legendary artists to design rides and attractions, resulting in a one-of-a-kind experience. Highlights included Salvador Dalí’s mirrored funhouse “Dalídom,” Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Ferris wheel, Keith Haring’s vibrant carousel, and whimsical installations by the likes of Kenny Scharf and David Hockney.
Though the original park was a critical success, logistical and financial challenges forced its closure after a short run. The attractions were placed in storage, and it became a fabled memory—until now.
The revival of Luna Luna has been nothing short of extraordinary. Entrepreneur Michael Goldberg, with support from Drake’s entertainment firm DreamCrew, spearheaded the project to bring this wonderful idea back to life. After decades in a Texas warehouse, the installations were meticulously restored and updated to modern safety standards, ensuring they could once again enchant visitors.
“Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy” reopened in November 2024 at The Shed, marking the first time the park has been accessible to the public in over 35 years. The exhibition will run through February 2025, offering New Yorkers and visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a carnival of creativity.
While some of the original rides are no longer operational, the artworks have been faithfully preserved and reimagined for a contemporary audience. Visitors can wander through Dalí’s mirrored labyrinth, Basquiat’s Ferris wheel, Haring’s kinetic carousel, and Scharf’s playful, colourful dreamscape. Each installation offers a unique opportunity to engage with art in a setting that transcends the traditional museum experience.
The park’s reopening is more than a nostalgic revival; it’s a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire and delight. By blending high art with the whimsy of an amusement park, it challenges traditional notions of how art should be experienced. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply curious, the park promises an unforgettable journey into the imagination.
In a world that often feels overly structured and serious, Luna Luna stands as a joyful reminder of the magic that can happen when creativity knows no bounds. Don’t miss your chance to step into this enchanting world before it closes its doors in February 2025.
For more stories of art and culture, visit our arts and culture archives.
