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An exhibit focusing on the films and art work of director Tim Burton will be showing in the MoMA starting November 22nd of 2009.  The exhibit will run until April 26th.  Composed of over 700 pieces of art, the show will feature paintings, drawings, storyboards, maquettes, puppets, and other work created or designed by Tim Burton.  Many pieces have never been seen before, such as his earliest non-pro films, and his student art.  In addition to work of Burton's, the MOMA will feature a series of films considered inspiration by the director himself.  Films include Frankenstein, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari and The Pit and the Pendulum.  MoMA will also be screening a complete collection of Burton's films through the course of the exhibit.

Variety says Burton "thought it was an elaborate joke of some sort" when he was first approached about the exhibit.  He mentioned being impressed at how much work the exhibit's organizers were able to collect, many of which he had forgotten about.

With film being Burton's main priority - he is currently working on a non-animation remake of the classic Alice in Wonderland - he remains modest about his artistic skills, particularly in reference to drawing.  "Everybody draws - I just never stopped when the teachers told me to," he said.  He additionally explains his love of drawing as a learning aid: "It's easier for me to think things through visually instead of verbally, so it's like a diary in that way.  I have so many drawings.   I never look at the stuff - I just keep doing it."

Burton was hired to draw animations for the Disney movies The Fox and the Hound and The Black Cauldron.  Ultimately, few of his drawings were actually used.  Now, the drawings will be exposed for all the world to see, and Burton is anxious about it.

"I feel like it's a real honor and all, but I'm a bit nervous about it too," He said.