Janelle Monáe is on a mission to craft immersive, fantastical worlds, a pursuit that has defined her career since she debuted with her groundbreaking 2010 concept album, The ArchAndroid. Always in search of creative expression, the 39-year-old artist embraces a theatrical approach to life, relishing her roles as a singer, performer, and world-builder. Monáe describes her aspirations with fervor, saying, “I want to play all fucking day,” and invites others to share in her joy of the surreal.
From her early days in the music scene, Monáe has taken on a myriad of personas—from androids to sex bots. As she embraces her eclectic nature, she expresses her desire for everyone to feel included in this universe of creativity: “I want people to feel seen… like they’re not alone in loving science fiction, horror, and cosplay.” This month, she captures this essence for a magazine cover by portraying a whimsical vampire on vacation, engaging viewers with a striking image set against a sand-filled backdrop decorated with fake blood.
Monáe’s upcoming Halloween festival, Wondaween, is set to take place on October 30 in Los Angeles. The festival blends art and life through a kaleidoscope of offerings, including film screenings, game nights, live performances, and a haunted house installation called Monáe Manor at the L.A. Haunted Hayride. The festival aims to create a sense of community centered on creativity. “Halloween is a time to be creative and to honor spirits by transforming into them,” she noted. “It’s a ritual of release,” emphasizing the importance of self-expression through costumes and fantasy.
Wondaween is a celebration of all things odd and splendid, bringing together various artistic elements and highlighting the importance of connection in an increasingly digital world. Free events, such as the Wondaween Music Festival, enable over a thousand participants to experience a vibrant community atmosphere filled with costumes, music, and imaginative play. As Monáe puts it, the theme of “Vampire Beach” revolves around the delightful irony of vampires enjoying a sunny day at the beach—an invitation to embrace whimsy and transformation.
With a career that encompasses elaborate storytelling and community building, Monáe’s dedication to celebrating creativity in all its forms is evident. The Halloween season reminds her of the true magic of expression, an opportunity for everyone to break free from their everyday selves and revel in creativity. She urges people of all ages to recognize the beauty found in colorful costumes and playful extravagance, challenging them to become their truest selves.
Janelle Monáe doesn’t just want to reign as the Queen of Halloween; she aims to make Wondaween a widely recognized symbol of imaginative freedom, connection, and a yearly celebration of art. By fostering an environment where everyone feels free to express themselves, she hopes to inspire future generations to create their own unique communities and traditions.