The Malibu Arts Commission curated a public art installation of photographer Laura Johansen at the Malibu City Gallery located at Malibu City Hall. Johansen exhibited a portrait series of Dick Van Dyke from November 19, 2023 through January 5, 2024.

“We are very proud of the incredibly talented musicians, actors, and other artists who call Malibu home,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “I hope everyone in Malibu can join us for the opening reception and enjoy this special exhibition highlighting our own Dick Van Dyke. I applaud the work of the Malibu Arts Commission, which continues to bring new, interesting, and relevant art exhibitions to our City Gallery at City Hall.”

This unique and highly personal collection of portraits by Laura Johansen chronicles the recent adventures of entertainment icon and longtime Malibu residents Dick Van Dyke. The collection captures Dick’s life in recent years, from performances at the Kennedy Center to Halloween celebrations, to Mary Poppins red carpets, his impact on fans, and his life out of the spotlight, at home, and with family.

“Laura Johansen’s photographs are pure artwork, almost like paintings,” Mr. Van Dyke said of his work with Ms. Johansen over the past several years. 

“Laura is a master of shadow and light and always capturing the moment,” said Dick’s wife, Arlene Van Dyke. 

Australian-born Laura Johansen first met Dick and Arlene Van Dyke in 2015 when she took some photos of the Van Dykes at a fan art exhibit. Ms. Johansen was invited to be Dick Van Dyke’s personal photographer. 

“I’m so extremely honored to be taken into their fold that they value my special type of artwork and trust me and my photographic eye to bring a little extra magic to their story,” said Ms. Johansen. “It isn’t every day a global icon like Dick Van Dyke asks you to come along and join in his whimsical adventures! Oh, and add a little extra whimsy with your camera!”