It’s one thing to imagine a 50-meter-long inflatable pool in the middle of a desert. It’s another to make it a reality. Artist Cj Hendry isn’t one for simply envisioning things, and recently, she brought her flamboyant idea of constructing a massive pool in the Las Vegas desert to life.
I love the vivacity of Las Vegas and the duality of the desert together. I hope this exhibition sparks joy, connection, and a sense of wonder for everyone who dives into the experience.
Cj Hendry
The installation, dubbed Public Pool, ran in Las Vegas from April 4 through April 7. Steeped in glitz and whimsical kitsch, Public Pool‘s hot pink flamingos, neon inflatables, and colorful floral motifs invited visitors to indulge in the extravagant and fantastical.
To commemorate the exuberant exhibition, a sampling of limited-edition drawings and editions, along with a collection of beach towels, floaties, sunscreen, totes, hats, t-shirts, and other pool-themed items, are available for purchase at CjHendryStudio.com.
I’m far from immune to the appeal of a giant inflatable pool in the desert, and I had to hear more from the artist herself. I asked Hendry some questions about the project and her joyful artistic perspective.
How would you describe your POV as an artist?
I really want to keep pushing boundaries and challenging perceptions. I believe in the power of hyperrealism to captivate and intrigue, blurring the lines between reality and the surreal, while at the same time, keeping my exhibitions immersive.
Also, have fun with everything and a sense of humor.
How did the idea for the exhibition, Public Pool develop?
The idea for Public Pool came to me me as I contemplated spaces of communal experience and recreation. I wanted to create an immersive environment to transport viewers into a nostalgic yet surprising setting. The concept evolved from the desire to play with scale, perspective, and nature— inviting visitors to dive into a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, with the vibes of a Las Vegas pool party in the middle of a desert.
Where did your idea for that super fun and unique Public Pool promo come from?
That was a stroke of whimsy and spontaneity. I wanted to capture the essence of the exhibition—its vibrancy, its playfulness—in a way that would resonate with audiences. It was all about infusing a sense of joy, wonder, and interaction.
What’s your favorite aspect of Public Pool?
My favorite aspect of Public Pool is how it plays up paradoxes and blurs the lines between reality and illusion. Creating a Las Vegas pool party with an Olympic-sized pool in the desert is quite a scene! It’s unexpected and fun— every element is designed to provoke a sense of wonder and fascination. I love watching visitors lose themselves in the immersive environment, exploring every corner and discovering new surprises.
WWhat experience do you hope people have when they interact with Public Pool?
I hope viewers experience a sense of childlike wonder and curiosity when they visit Public Pool. I want them to feel transported to a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, where the mundane transforms into the magical. Whether they’re enjoying the pool or marveling at the intricacies of my artwork, I hope they leave feeling inspired and invigorated, ready to see the world through fresh eyes.