Heavy Meta Dragon, an art car conceived and brought to life by Made on Mars, at Black Rock City, Nevada. Photo by Inna Shnayder

Made on Mars: The Visionaries Crafting Dreams

By Laura Henkel

Las Vegas, a city synonymous with innovation and excitement, has recently become home to an extraordinary art fabrication company, Made on Mars. Founded by the dynamic duo of Marie Poliak and Kevin Bracken, alongside a talented team of creatives, this boutique studio is making waves in the local art scene and beyond. With a philosophy emphasizing the power of imagination, Marie notes, “Today’s dreams are the blueprints for all of our tomorrows.” This vision is the foundation for their unique creations, ranging from fire-breathing art installations to site-specific commercial and public space artworks. The couple’s passion for creating epic art installations is paralleled only by their deep connection and support for one another, forging an inspiring partnership that transcends the ordinary.

A Leap of Faith in Uncertain Times

Marie and Kevin relocated from Toronto to Las Vegas in the winter of 2020, just as the city began recovering from the global pandemic. Renting a home near the Arts District, they made a calculated bet that Las Vegas would bounce back faster than other cities, mainly due to its robust entertainment sector. Their enthusiasm for the city was solidified during encounters with Tony Hsieh and the vibrant community around the Downtown Project and VegasTechFund, where they were inspired by the palpable sense of surprise and possibility that Vegas offers.

Why Las Vegas is the Perfect Canvas for Art

In a city where novelty is key, Las Vegas presents a fertile ground for artistic expression. “You need to change the carpet under the tourists’ feet to keep their attention,” Marie explains, highlighting the perpetual demand for new and exciting experiences. This demand aligns perfectly with Made on Mars’ mission to create immersive and interactive art that captivates and entertains.

Headquartered in a sprawling 3,000-square-foot warehouse in the Golden Triangle neighborhood of North Las Vegas, Made on Mars combines myth-busting elements with the spirit of Burning Man. Their workspace is a playground for creativity, where innovative concepts come to life.

Crafting the Extraordinary

Made on Mars specializes in various projects, including metal sculptures, flame effects and custom installations. Among their most notable works is The Prodigal Swan, a stunning art car that combines engineering and artistry to create an unforgettable spectacle. The team excels at taking concepts from ideation to fabrication, ensuring that no job is too big or too small. Marie’s artistic direction is perfectly complemented by Kevin’s project management and customer relations skills, forming a partnership that brings their clients’ visions to life.

Their clientele includes major names in the industry, such as Insomniac and AREA15, as well as a constellation of private clients and Burning Man camps. Their reach extends beyond Las Vegas, attracting clients who recognize their creativity and expertise. Ideal clients have a clear vision but are open to creative exploration, allowing for innovative designs that push boundaries.

Showcasing Capabilities

The capabilities of Made on Mars are as impressive as their creations. They offer a comprehensive suite of services, from 2D illustrations and CAD engineering to massive metal sculptures and customized flame effects. Notable projects include the 120-foot-long LED tunnel for TRANSFIX in Las Vegas and the serene installation for Belvedere at the RiSE Festival, showcasing their versatility and expertise. Additionally, their artistic installations exemplify their innovative spirit, such as the eye-catching “Love,” a steel structure that radiates elegance.

The Future of Art in Las Vegas

As Made on Mars continues to thrive, the founders remain committed to believing that art can inspire and transform communities. With their headquarters serving as a hub of creativity and innovation, Marie and Kevin are not just fabricating art; they are building a legacy in a city that embraces change and celebrates artistic expression. For those looking to engage with their work, visit their website at www.madeonmars.art and follow them on Instagram @madeonmars.art to stay updated on their latest creations.