The artwork titled “When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth (Toys R U.S.)” was created by artist Mark Dion in the year 1995 and is associated with the Neo-Dada art movement. This piece falls under the genre of installation, characterized by its detailed and immersive spatial presentation.
The artwork portrays a meticulously designed children’s bedroom, filled with various dinosaur-themed paraphernalia and toys. Prominently, the room features dinosaur-patterned wallpaper and bedding, evoking a sense of childish wonder and fascination with prehistoric creatures. The space is cluttered with books, toys, and a range of dinosaur figures, creating an environment rich in detail and playful chaos. A large inflatable dinosaur dominates the scene, positioned beside the neatly arranged bed covered with dinosaur bedsheets. Shelves on the wall house an array of toys, books, and other miscellaneous items, contributing to the overall atmosphere of a young child’s immersive play area dedicated to a love for dinosaurs. This installation speaks to the popular culture of the mid-1990s and reflects the artist’s interest in themes of consumerism, childhood, and the natural world.
