Jim Henson's Fantastic World offers a rare peek into the imagination and creative genius of Jim Henson (1936-1990), inspired creator of Sesame Street, the Muppets, Fraggle Rock and more. The exhibition documents Henson's career and features over 100 original art works of art, including puppets, sketches, photographs, documents, TV and movie props, and video productions, including excerpts from Henson's early work and experimental films.

What started as a one-man enterprise eventually grew into an internationally acclaimed phenomenon, enjoyed in dozens of languages in more than 100 countries. Henson adapted the ancient art of puppetry to television, and in doing so, transformed both. Over time, the simple hand puppets he created for his first television show, Sam and Friends, evolved into increasingly more sophisticated characters, from the Muppets of Sesame Street to the larger than -life creatures of Labyrinth. Above all, Henson helped to promote the qualities of fancifulness, warmth, and consideration that his legacy sustained.

Organized by the Jim Henson Legacy and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in cooperation with the Henson Family, The Jim Henson Company, The Muppets Holding Company, LLC, and Sesame Workshop.

Jim Henson's Fantastic World is made possible by the Biography Channel. Additional support has been provided by the Jane Henson Foundation and Cheryl Henson.

Courtesy of the Louisiana Arts& Science Museum.