Children's Play: Ragnar Kjartansson for Kids

Step into a world of imagination, creativity and theatrical fun at Children's Play: Ragnar Kjartansson, a brand-new interactive exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria designed especially for children and their families. Created by internationally acclaimed Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson, the exhibition invites young visitors to dress up, perform, play and create their own stories in an immersive theatrical setting.

Inspired by the lavish celebrations of European Rococo courts and the tradition of combining "dinner and a show", the exhibition transforms the gallery into a playful world filled with elaborate stage sets, colourful costumes, props and hands-on activities. Every corner encourages children to use their imagination, whether they're acting on stage, inventing characters or creating scenes with family and friends.

At the centre of the exhibition is an interactive theatre featuring three beautifully hand-painted backdrops—a cosy woodland cabin, a whimsical Rococo garden and a magical snowy forest. Children can choose from a collection of bespoke costumes, including Rococo-inspired dresses, workers' outfits and forest animals, before stepping onto the stage to become actors, storytellers or directors in their very own performance. There are no rules, allowing children to create, perform and play however they choose.

Another highlight is the playful cake-making experience, inspired by celebrations, grand feasts and Kjartansson's love of cake. Children can build their own oversized cake sculptures using colourful soft cushions, while a giant upholstered cake provides the perfect place to sit, climb and play. Throughout the exhibition, beautifully arranged displays of cakes and food add to the festive atmosphere while inspiring imaginative drawing activities where children can sketch theatrical scenes or their favourite treats.

The exhibition's playful design reflects Kjartansson's own childhood, having grown up surrounded by theatre as the son of an actor and theatre director. His lifelong love of costumes, backstage life, storytelling and make-believe is woven throughout the exhibition, with striped walls, hand-painted curtains, candelabras and the artist's own illustrations creating a vibrant and welcoming space for young visitors.

Children's Play: Ragnar Kjartansson is presented alongside Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy, the artist's major exhibition of contemporary video works. Together, the exhibitions offer something for every generation, allowing adults to explore Kjartansson's acclaimed artworks while children enjoy a dedicated interactive experience designed just for them.

Perfect for preschoolers and primary school-aged children, this joyful exhibition encourages creativity, imaginative play and family participation, making it a wonderful day out at the NGV.

Images:
Installation view of Children's Play: Ragnar Kjartansson on display from 26 June to 4 October 2026, at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Sean Fennessy
Visitors in Children's Play: Ragnar Kjartansson on display from 26 June to 4 October 2026, at NGV International, Melbourne.Photo: Tim Carrafa
Visitor in Children's Play: Ragnar Kjartansson on display from 26 June to 4 October 2026, at NGV International, Melbourne.Photo: Eugene Hyland