David Lynch Experimented With American Culture: Without Him, American Culture Would Be a Lot Less Weird

No artist felt more American than this mysterious surrealist.

Matthias Nareyek/Getty Images
Director David Lynch smokes as he departs the 'Twin Peaks' screening during the 70th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 25, 2017 at Cannes, France. Matthias Nareyek/Getty Images

David Lynch’s intense interest in art began with paintings and sculptures. His interest in the movement of sculptures inspired him to make short films. This led him to direct his first feature, “Eraserhead,” which introduced a whole new style – absurd and abnormal – to film. From his TV series “Twin Peaks” to his cinematic efforts such as “Blue Velvet”, “Lost Highway” and “Mulholland Drive”, Lynch has left his mark – weird and experimental – on multiple generations of popular culture. 

Have an account? Log In

To continue reading, please select:

Limited Access

Enter your email to read for FREE

Get 1 FREE article

Continue with
or
Unlimited Access

Join the Sun for a PENNY A DAY

$0.01/day for 60 days

Cancel anytime

100% ad free experience

Unlimited article and commenting access

Full annual dues ($120) billed after 60 days

By continuing you agree to our
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Advertisement
The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  Create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use