Worshipers of ’90s nostalgia have a new destination for their Fresh Prince-singing, Zach Morris-quoting vision quests: California State University, Fullerton’s Begovich Gallery. That’s the soon-to-be home of “Happy Happy Joy Joy”, a museum exhibit celebrating the 25th anniversary of Nickelodeon’s Nicktoons, and their long-lasting, formative impact on the past-loving adult children of the world.
The exhibit—which runs from April 16 to May 22—will feature sketches, production art, and videos from shows like Doug, Ren & Stimpy, and Rocko’s Modern Life. It’ll also feature a handful of larger installation pieces, including a living room-esque viewing space for people to indulge their inner children in, and which some poor docent is going to have to spend their entire day keeping clear of PB&J residue, Doritos dust, and pot.
The August 11, 1991 launch of the Nicktoons block wasn’t just a landmark date in the history of football-headed paternal mysteries and tinkling Mark Mothersbaugh theme tunes; it also represented the kids’ network’s first real stab at producing its own original animated programming. To celebrate the milestone, the gallery is also offering up a Q&A with animator Arlene Klasky, co-creator of Rugrats, and Jim Jinkins, creator of Doug, which is set for the exhibit’s opening on April 16.