First Look At The Tim Burton Exhibition In KL – Life-Sized Character Figures, A Replica Studio & Merch Shop

The World Of Tim Burton in KL 


Even if you’re not a movie buff, you’ve likely heard of Tim Burton. The filmmaker is behind cinematic pieces such as Edward Scissorhands, Corpse Bride, and more recently, Netflix’s Wednesday.

For the first time, The World Of Tim Burton exhibition will be dropping by Malaysia from now till 30th July 2023. On display are over 500 artworks spread out across 10 thematic zones, as well as a replica of Burton’s studio, so fans can delve into the mind of the artist and his striking visual works.

Here’s what you can look forward to at the pop-up museum: 


10 zones with over 500 works


From 21st March till 30th July, The World Of Tim Burton will be open at Pavilion Bukit Jalil in KL. It’ll be the pop-up museum’s first stop in Southeast Asia, and last stop in Asia, after having visited cities around the globe such as Seoul, Hong Kong, Mexico City, and Tokyo.

The exhibition in KL features over 540 artworks spread out in 10 thematic zones. Among these are imaginative and surreal pieces from Burton’s five-decade career, including sketches, moving-image works, photographs, scale models, and life-sized sculptures. 

One of 10 exhibits you can look forward to visiting is Carnivalesque, which explores Burton’s distinct mix of comedy and horror.

A highlight at this section is a carousel mobile illuminated with neon lights in a blackout room. Peep past the velvet drapes, and be mesmerised by the stunning display of moving figurines and lights within.

Over at the Around The World section is a collection of Burton’s artworks on paper napkins. These highlight the creative genius’ spontaneous burst of inspiration, with a variety of character doodles ranging from oddly cute to whimsically horrifying.

Likewise, the Film Characters zone holds maquettes, videos, script notes, and scale models that let fans explore Burton’s popular films such as Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, Corpse Bride, and Mars Attacks! in more depth.

Another not-to-be-missed section at the pop-up museum is a replica of Burton’s personal studio. There are scattered notebooks on a desk and sketches of his current projects in progress clipped to a cork board, which let visitors get a glimpse of his creative process. 

You’ll want to take a close look at the latter, as there are concept drawings for the Netflix hit, Wednesday, on display. 


Shop for Burton-themed merch & snap photos with Balloon Boy


Once you’ve seen everything at the pop-up museum, drop by the merchandise shop. Browse for Burton-themed items, such as apparel, an exhibition catalogue, as well as 3D postcards (RM48/each) and memo pads (RM18/each). 

While photography is not allowed inside the exhibition space, there’s a 22-foot-tall concept maquette of the stitched-up Balloon Boy – a character conjured by Burton – at the entrance that you can take photos with.

Another photo op for visitors is the shadow zone, which features a looming silhouette that fans will easily recognise from Burton’s animated short film, Vincent


The World Of Tim Burton exhibition opens in Malaysia


If you’ve watched any Burton film before, you’ve likely been charmed by the whimsical settings and slightly kooky characters that have come to characterise his films. If so, come down to The World Of Tim Burton exhibition in KL to discover the artist behind them.

Tickets for the pop-up museum can be purchased online at KOL Nation, with prices as follows: 

  • Adults: RM88/pax
  • Children (6-12 years old), Students & Senior Citizens: RM68/pax
  • Persons with Disabilities: RM48/pax
  • Children below 5 years old: Free

As there’s plenty to discover at the exhibition, you can opt for a Season Pass (RM498/pax), which gives you unlimited entries and priority access to the exhibition, as well as a limited-edition merchandise item.

Venue: Lot 2.93.00, Level 2, Pink Zone, Pavilion Bukit Jalil
Date: 21st March-30th July
Time: 10am-10pm
Contact: Toybox Projects website

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Photography by Janet Cho.

Cover image adapted from: TheSmartLocal Malaysia

Janet: