Amusement Park, Luna Luna Created by Art Stars Haring, Basquiat, Lichtenstein, and More to Tour the US in 2024

While scrolling through Instagram I learned about something I couldn’t believe I had never heard of, an amusement park created and opened in Germany in the late 80s featuring some of the most influential artists of the time. Luna Luna is the name of the park and it was opened in Hamburg, Germany in 1987. It was open from June-August and over 250,000 people visited the park. The original idea was that the park would be a permanent fixture in Vienna. Due to politics and financial issues, the park was boxed and shipped to Texas where it was stored for years.

Vintage carnival equipment and experienced artists from the opera and theater community worked with the artists to create their rides and experiences in the park.  Jean-Michel Basquiat created a ferris wheel, Keith Haring a carousel, Kenny Shcarf created a wave swinger, Roy Lichtenstein a mirrored pavilion labyrinth, and more. For a complete list, and images, visit: https://lunaluna.com/1987/artists-and-attractions/

“When I first heard about Luna Luna I was blown away,” Drake said in a statement. “It’s such a unique and special way to experience art. This is a big idea and opportunity that centers around what we love most: bringing people together.” New York Times

When rapper Drake learned about the carnival, and its condition he had the idea to purchase it, refurbish it, and put it on a national tour. He is working with curators, art experts, and some of the original creators to prepare it for the tour. The tour will be huge, including performers, food, educational experiences, and new artist involvement. Live Nation will be handling ticketing. The entire process is being filmed by a documentary crew with the film to be released after the tour takes place.

Part of the revival of the park is the reissue of André Heller‘s book, Luna Luna. Who better to tell the story of the idea, creation, and realization of the park than its inventor. The book printed by Phiadon is an extensive telling of the story with high-quality photos of the art, artists, and guests of the park.

Here’s hoping that Drake brings the park to Houston next year!