New York – Luna Luna, the art-themed amusement park, is set for a grand return since its solitary debut in 1987 and Bonhams will present a unique opportunity to collect an original piece of the park's production design by one of the visionary artists behind the event and America's favorite pop artist, Keith Haring (1958-1990). The drawings by Haring served as the foundational blueprints for the large-scale panels at the fair, enlivening the space with vibrant colors and his signature bold lines and animated figures. Long held in the collection of André Heller, the Austrian artist responsible for the fair's inception, these drawings will be making their auction debut with an estimate of $300,000 – $400,000 at the Bonhams' 20th/21st Century Art Evening Sale on November 20 in New York.
"This represents an extraordinary chance to own a piece of this iconic fair, which has been re-envisioned this year, taking the nation by storm and stepping back into the limelight. It also offers an intriguing glimpse into the 1987 production, where Haring worked intimately with fellow artists to democratize art," commented Andrew Huber, Bonhams Head of Department for 20th/21st Century Art in New York.
Luna Luna, the world's premier art-centric amusement park, was the brainchild of André Heller, who held the belief that "art should take on unconventional forms and reach those who might not typically encounter it in more predictable environments." The park made its debut in Hamburg, Germany, in 1987, and for a brief period, it revolutionized traditional amusement rides into immersive art installations.
Thanks to the efforts of influential rapper Drake, his company DreamCrew, and Live Nation, Luna Luna is set to reopen its doors in New York at The Shed on November 20, 2024. The park stands as a nostalgic nod to the past while simultaneously celebrating the intersection of art and public life. Haring's contributions remain a highlight of the park, demonstrating his expansive impact on art history, pop culture, and the art market, where his works are highly sought after. These drawings offer an opportunity to acquire a vital piece of art history, brimming with Haring's vibrant, energetic scenes featuring his most beloved and coveted characters.