This experience was by far one of the worst I've had in NYC or for entertainment in general. Luna Luna was extremely hyped up, and I thought it would be a really cool, immersive experience- as claimed. The ticket prices would definitely reflect something of that caliber, at least.
To say we were disappointed is an understatement in itself. I knew, going in, that it would be an "art amusement park" of sorts. But as good as this city is at creating atmosphere in many venues and experiences, they completely fell short here.
Staff were confused and really not that helpful. There were huge wrapping lines into most of the exhibit spaces, and it really wasn't worth the wait for any of them, truth be told. Once inside of the exhibit spaces, they were filthy, discarded trash and handprints all over everything, so I'm not really sure what staff was actually supposed to be doing. For example, when we did the maze- the glass was full of smudges and face prints, so it was fairly easy to find our way through it.
It was a lot of hype for very little return. It was advertised that performers would be walking around the space, but we were there for a couple hours and we saw one guy carrying a pink towel or something around and screaming. Initially, I didn't put together that it was a performer- and from the looks on the faces of others in the same line- they didn't either. Also, in the time we were there, it only actually went lights out and the exhibits "on" one time. No doubt- that was neat to see but this could have been executed so much better.
I feel like too many people were let in at once, to be honest- and there were a ton of kids. I do understand there was one space dedicated to puppet shows and such, but other patrons really let their children run wild in the space. I'm talking about running into people full force, screaming, running around, cutting people off.
The "bar" upstairs was also a joke- it was just a couple fold tables with a table cloth draped over them. No other atmosphere at all. There were a couple of squishy artsy stools to sit on up there.
We are generally big on the arts scene and events in NYC- this wasn't a normal experience.
I feel like it was a...
Read moreWas very surprised an art exhibition involving such iconoclastic artists was represented in such a sterile, corporate environment. It felt like everything was done in a superficial manner and the only aim was to have the artists' works serve as backdrops for social media posting. There were no lines so the fact that they're selling expensive Moon Passes to "skip" lines is outrageous, especially when the regular ticket price is already way too high in the first place. The performers around the exhibition were cute, but seemed like day players they just picked up off the street. I felt very little of what I imagine the original Luna Luna Park experience was like in 1987.
Honestly feels like a corporate equity fund bought up the art pieces and put this exhibition on as a scam to make a quick buck. Respect for the integrity of the artists involved in the original event must've not been thought about at all. The gift shop is a ridiculous money grab overstuffed with cheap, quickly made product that doesn't live up to the legacy of the artists or their art. I continually see new products being offered in their online Luna Luna Shop which just shows how much of a superficial money grab this whole exhibition is. Not to mention the online shop has terrible, unresponsive customer service making it feel like the true scam it is. Luna Luna is keenly aware the exhibition is temporary, so they feel no loyalty to the customers paying for their goods who are trying earnestly to support art.
The people behind this version of Luna Luna are clearly not artists. If you were expecting an experience with artistic integrity and beauty, you will not find that here in this cheap, disappointing scam of an art exhibition. Save your money and go support real art...
Read moreBeyond the initial excitement of the Luna Luna Exhibit and it’s come-to-life colors, is an intriguing story of one man’s fight against fascism by creating a space of joy and play through artistic collaboration.
Upon entrance we are greeted by a collage of faces, their hardworking hands bringing to life Luna Luna Park. The excitement and camaraderie is as rich and vibrant as the photos themselves.
As you move along the rides, the walls pull you through the room with a beautifully curated history that came before, igniting the inspiration and action for the Luna Luna Park, as well as the necessity for such a wondrous world.
I found the spaces to be utilized perfectly in unfurling the story of Luna Luna, giving breath to the original advertisements, tickets and designs, while allowing it’s audiences to step into a merry-go-round of bright lights and exuberant colors, as if we had travelled onto the original grounds.
I personally enjoyed the brilliance of the labyrinth, immediately I was transported to being a kid again, which is the premise of the amusement park. It’s not your typical carnival, but one that invites your child-like wonder to come out and play, while appreciating the possibility of bringing together such pivotal artists of the time.
Art as an immersive space, a place of joy and curiosity, of interaction and engagement, this is what Andre Heller graciously gifted the world. I walked out galvanized, questioning, how can we continue this legacy into the world today through...
Read more