There aren't many artists in the world with a style as immediately recognisable as Julian Opie. The British sculptor sketches people with the simplest of details – black lines and splashes of colour – capturing the mood and spirit of the world's metropolises.
This free solo exhibition of more than 60 of his works has taken over several of the NGV's most prominent spaces. In the entry foyer, called Federation Court, Opie has installed an entire city of skyscrapers, which reach up 13 metres into the sky to create an immersive environment. He's also set a school of virtual carp loose on the NGV's waterwall, and in the garden, installed a large-scale fountain sculpture inspired by the 'Manneken Pis' (so yes, you know what to expect).
Opie has also collaborated with Kate Ryan (the NGV’s curator of children’s programs) to develop a distinct section for children. Julian Opie: Studio for Kids is an interactive space where budding artists of all ages can try their hand at making art in Opie’s unmistakable style. Get crafty at the felt tables where kids can layer pre-cut felt shapes into bold, tactile faces. The studio also lets kids create their own digital self-portrait. First a photo of their face is taken using a computer and then kids can draw over it, imitating Opie’s pared-back style.