New Exhibition Delves into the Creativity and Enduring Impact of Maurice Sendak, the Mind Behind ‘Where the Wild Things Are’
**The Denver Art Museum Commemorates Maurice Sendak with an Immersive Exhibition: “Wild Things: The Art of Maurice Sendak”**
Maurice Sendak, the acclaimed author and illustrator, left a lasting impact on children’s literature through his vivid storytelling and visually striking picture books. The most famous of these works, *Where The Wild Things Are* (1963), has established itself as a timeless classic since its debut, with its themes of imagination, exploration, and emotional richness resonating with audiences across generations. Now, in honor of the enigmatic creator’s artistic legacy, the Denver Art Museum has assembled an engaging new exhibition titled *Wild Things: The Art of Maurice Sendak*.
This comprehensive exhibition, on display until February 17, 2025, provides visitors with an exceptional opportunity to deeply explore Sendak’s extensive and diverse career. Featuring a collection of over 400 items, including sketches, drawings, paintings, and mockups, the exhibition offers an in-depth look into the artistic evolution and creative methodologies of one of the most significant illustrators of the 20th century.
### A Grand Collection and Debut Exhibit of Original Artworks
A highlight of the event is the presentation of all the original illustrations from *Where The Wild Things Are*—each piece showcasing Sendak’s expertise in watercolor, ink, and graphite. This marks the first occasion these artworks have been shown collectively, allowing both casual admirers and devoted scholars a rare chance to appreciate the intricate details and artistry behind the beloved characters and scenes from the narrative.
Alongside these iconic illustrations, the exhibition also features a selection of materials that spotlight Sendak’s other treasured projects, such as *In the Night Kitchen*, *Outside Over There*, and *The Nutshell Library*. Attendees can view original illustrations, drafts, and storyboards that trace the development of these whimsical narratives.
As Maurice Sendak’s illustrations evoke themes of bravery, resilience, and childlike wonder, *Wild Things* presents guests with a renewed appreciation for his skill in embedding psychologically rich themes within stories aimed primarily at children. Christoph Heinrich, the museum’s director and co-curator of the exhibition, highlights that Sendak’s “awareness of the human longing for connection and exploration” lends his work its emotional depth and broad appeal.
### Sendak’s Impact Beyond the Page: Opera, Theater, and Film
To provide a well-rounded perspective on Sendak’s artistic range, the exhibition also examines the creator’s collaborations with various art forms. In the 1980s, Sendak ventured into stage design, notably contributing to productions like *The Magic Flute* and *The Nutcracker*. Through these partnerships, he continued to blur the boundaries between visual storytelling and live theater.
Guests can explore set designs, costumes, and project designs for numerous stage and screen adaptations. Among the standout components of the exhibition are the conceptual designs for the opera inspired by *Where The Wild Things Are*, composed by Oliver Knussen, and the costumes created for the 2009 live-action film adaptation directed by Spike Jonze. Not just an illustrator, Sendak’s extensive collaborations allowed him to influence the depiction of his beloved characters across diverse media.
The breadth of the exhibition underscores the multidisciplinary essence of his creative output, elevating him beyond the confines of children’s literature. In the exhibit, Sendak’s ties to iconic personalities in contemporary culture—including musical partnerships with Carole King and collaborations with playwright Tony Kushner—underscore how his work transcended conventional ideas of illustration and storytelling, paving the way for new conversations about creativity.
### Drawing Inspiration from Artistic Luminaries
Central to understanding Maurice Sendak’s imaginative journey is his profound respect for the artistic titans who preceded him. *Wild Things* also provides guests with a glimpse into Sendak’s personal collection, which further illuminates his influences and inspirations. Among the figures he revered were 18th-century British poet and painter William Blake, along with legendary creators such as Winsor McCay (famous for *Little Nemo*), Beatrix Potter of *Peter Rabbit* fame, painter George Stubbs, and animation pioneer Walt Disney.
Studying these masters significantly shaped Sendak’s unique artistic expression, and their influences are intricately woven into his works. The exhibition sheds light on how these artists steered Sendak’s perspectives, from his fluid compositions to the darker, emotionally nuanced narratives found in children’s literature.
### A Glimpse into a Spectacular 65-Year Career
Maurice Sendak enjoyed a prolific 65-year career, consistently challenging conventions and elevating the picture book to a distinct art form. At *Wild Things*, attendees not only engage with his original creations in a close-knit environment, but they are also encouraged to delve into the complexities underlying the stories. The exhibition invites viewers to uncover the layers of the fantastical, exposing deeper themes of family, loss, cultural heritage, and the essence of humanity.
Heinrich emphasized Sendak’s enduring legacy.