The London Design Museum is hosting The World of Tim Burton, an expansive exhibition showcasing over 600 items from the visionary filmmaker’s 50-year career. Featuring rare pieces from private collections and major film studios, the exhibit will be open to visitors until April 21, 2025.
A Retrospective of Tim Burton’s Iconic Work
This immersive collection includes costumes, sketches, props, and set designs from Burton’s illustrious filmography. Highlights include Johnny Depp’s iconic costume from Edward Scissorhands, Christina Ricci’s black-and-white striped dress from Sleepy Hollow, Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman outfit from Batman Returns, and Jenna Ortega’s memorable Rave’N dance dress from Wednesday.
Alongside Burton’s personal archives, the exhibition features items loaned from Paramount, Amazon MGM Studios, Warner Bros., and other prominent collections. Having previously toured 14 cities across 11 countries, this London edition has been uniquely expanded and redesigned to offer an even richer experience.
A Designer’s Lens on Burton’s Craft
Visitors can explore Tim Burton’s hands-on, design-centric approach to filmmaking, with over 90 new pieces added exclusively for this showcase. Maria McLintock, the museum’s curator, described Burton’s creative process: “For Tim Burton, every film begins with a sketch, often one he revisits like an old friend. We are thrilled to display these deeply personal works here in London, a city he calls home.”
Burton himself reflected on the exhibition, calling it “an odd experience to have 50 years of your art and life on display, especially when that was never the intention.” He expressed his excitement about collaborating with the London Design Museum, calling it the “perfect setting” for showcasing his art in a fresh light.
Sections and Highlights of the Exhibition
The exhibition is divided into thematic sections that delve into Burton’s artistic journey and boundless imagination. The opening section, “Suburban Beginnings,” traces his early days as a Disney animator, while segments like “Processing Imagination” and “Building Worlds” emphasize his contributions to stop-motion animation and production design.
The exhibit also celebrates Burton’s long-standing collaborations with renowned designers like costume designer Colleen Atwood, production designer Rick Heinrichs, and stop-motion animators Mackinnon and Saunders, offering insights into the creative process behind his iconic works.
In partnership with luxury retailer Harvey Nichols, the exhibit extends into a Tim Burton-themed holiday display, complete with curated items from his private collection. Accompanied by an evocative soundscape designed by Tomi Rose, the exhibition promises visitors an enchanting journey from suburban neighborhoods to fantastical film sets.
