Horror and sci-fi exhibit to explore art, fear

Listen to this article

An exhibition featuring horror and sci-fi film art from the extensive collection of Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett will be on display at the Columbia Museum of Art from Feb. 15 through May 17.

It’s Alive! Classic Horror and Sci-Fi Art from the Kirk Hammett Collection features 135 works from 20th century cinema, including posters by an international array of graphic designers and memorabilia such as film props and costumes. The exhibition, which will make its final stop of an international tour in Columbia, celebrates artwork while delving into the cultural meaning of horror and sci-films and the scientific aspects of fear.

“This show reminds us that art casts a broad net and includes more than paintings with big gold frames,” Will South, CMA chief curator, said in a news release. “It is about the dreams and fantasies that stick with us through childhood and beyond — dreams which include, as we all know, plenty of monsters.” 

Hammett said in the release that the collection inspires his own creativity.

“The stuff of horror has a mojo that always works on me,” he said. “I start producing ideas. They just flow like liquid.”