OKAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – A well-known professional toy photographer is in Oklahoma City preparing for his art exhibit at the Science Museum Oklahoma. It’s perfect for all ages because it combines toys for kids and nostalgia for adults.
“Having an exhibit at this museum is truly a dream come true,” said Mitchel Wu.
On Tuesday, Wu was putting together his most dynamic and wide-ranging exhibition, “Out of the Toy Box.”
You may have seen Wu’s work on Instagram, like those at the Science Museum Oklahoma.
“When our gallery director decided we should do an entire exhibit of just his work, I was amazed,” said Sherry Marshall, President/CEO John E. Kirkpatrick of the Science Museum Oklahoma.
Wu is driven by several factors, such as his childhood.
“Popeye was one of my favorite cartoons growing up,” Wu said.
He also draws from his daughter’s childhood.
“This is a story I read to my daughter growing up, at least once a week,” said Wu, alongside her “Where the Wild Things Are” exhibit.
Children passing by on Tuesday recognized special characters.
“Is this based on a Strawberry Shortcake?” asked Remington McLemore, who stopped by the limited exhibit. “I watched that my entire childhood.”
Wu also draws from his experiences, such as a model portraying the Flintstones coming out of King Kong.
“This is influenced by displacement experiences,” Wu said. “This is just life in prehistoric times.”
Wu said his main goal is to tell a story, even if it’s not one you’re familiar with.
“Darth Vader is a dark and evil individual,” Wu said. “When he’s off work, is he still that bad guy?”
Wu said he only uses practical effects, like compressed air or mini fireworks.
“There would be explosions happening here and dirt flying around here,” Wu said, pointing to a display featuring The Incredible Hulk.
“I’d rather sit in my backyard and set off fireworks than sit in front of the computer creating digital effects,” Wu said.
To make this exhibit even more special, Wu partnered with a friend to make a diorama of the Science Museum Oklahoma.
“I feel like it’s a very distinctive museum, especially with the blue planetarium dome,” Wu said.
On Tuesday, the limited exposure was already having an impact.
“It looks realistic, incredible and just magical here,” McLemore said.
“I believe creativity and imagination only help as we get older,” Wu said.
The full exhibition will officially open on May 18. It will be located on the second floor of the Science Museum Oklahoma for about a year. There is no extra cost to see the exhibition.
