Costumes and props from Marvel films, original comic-book artwork and interactive displays featuring some of the company’s best-known heroes are coming to the Houston Museum of Natural Science this winter.
Marvel: The Exhibition – Universe of Super Heroes opens to the public Dec. 19. Museum members can visit beginning Dec. 18. The exhibit will feature more than 150 artifacts, including items that have never before been displayed publicly.
Visitors can get a close look at concept sketches, props and costumes from Marvel Studios films, along with original art from notable comics. The experience also includes interactive installations and life-size representations of characters such as Black Panther and the Hulk, as well as an immersive soundscape created by composer Lorne Balfe.
The exhibition traces Marvel’s history and its influence on visual culture, from the company’s origins to work by contemporary creators. It spotlights characters including Captain America, Spider-Man, Black Panther and Ms. Marvel, and recognizes the work of influential creators Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko.
“Our show begins with the origins of the Marvel Universe and moves through to the present day,” curator Ben Saunders said, describing a collection that includes rare objects from more than 85 years of popular culture.
The exhibit also explores how Marvel’s stories have reflected the world around them. Brian Crosby, head of Marvel Themed Entertainment, said the company helped reshape superhero comics through “visual spectacle, emotional dynamism and philosophical sophistication.” He added that one of Marvel’s enduring messages is “that anyone—regardless of race, religion or gender—can be a Super Hero.”
The curatorial team includes comics scholars Saunders, Matthew J. Smith and Randy Duncan, along with writers and editors Ann Nocenti and Danny Fingeroth. The exhibition was produced by Semmel Exhibitions and Marvel Entertainment.
“We’re beyond thrilled to bring this extraordinary exhibition to Houston,” said Harry Hogeland, the museum’s spokesperson for the exhibit. He said visitors can expect “a pure surge of nostalgia, wonder, and imagination.”
Ticket prices and additional information will be available at hmns.org or by calling 713-639-4629.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is at 5555 Hermann Park Drive in the Museum District.
