The Mouse Museum and the Ray Gun Wing, conceptualized and brought to life by Claes Oldenburg between 1965 and 1967, stand as a testament to his innovative approach to art and his engagement with the objects of everyday life. These projects delve into the "ordinary-fantastic" world Oldenburg is known for, showcasing his ability to transform mundane objects into sources of artistic inspiration and commentary on consumer culture.

The Mouse Museum is a carefully curated collection that encompasses a wide range of found objects, commercial products, and Oldenburg's own creations. These items are displayed in a museum-like setting, designed by Oldenburg himself, emphasizing the artistic value and aesthetic intrigue of commonplace items when placed in a new context. This project reflects Oldenburg's fascination with everyday objects and his belief in their potential to reveal deeper meanings and relationships when observed through an artistic lens.

The Ray Gun Wing, on the other hand, features an assembly of objects that all share a common trait: their resemblance to the shape of a ray gun. This collection includes a variety of items, from toys to tools, each contributing to a larger narrative about the prevalence of certain forms in our visual and material culture. Oldenburg's focus on the ray gun shape explores themes of violence, technology, and the fantastical, highlighting how repetitive motifs in our environment can carry significant cultural and psychological weight.

Both the Mouse Museum and the Ray Gun Wing challenge traditional notions of what constitutes art and where it can be found. By elevating everyday objects to the status of museum exhibits, Oldenburg blurs the lines between high and low culture, inviting viewers to reconsider the artistic and cultural significance of the ordinary. These works embody Oldenburg's playful yet critical approach to art-making, demonstrating his skill in creating thought-provoking and accessible art from the fabric of everyday life.

These projects are emblematic of Oldenburg's broader contributions to the art world, showcasing his innovative use of materials, his engagement with consumer culture, and his ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary. Through the Mouse Museum and the Ray Gun Wing, Oldenburg invites us into a world where the ordinary becomes fantastic, urging us to see the art that surrounds us in our daily lives​ (Studio Int)​​ (Studio Int)​.