Geelong Gallery’s Learn Space has a new look, with kids able to interact with bold colours, signage and layered meanings.
Through the Streets of Your Town was created by artist and designer Beci Orpin and provides a free hands-on space at the gallery until August 17.
Ms Orpin said she was inspired by Janenne Eaton’s Lines of Sight—Frame and Horizon exhibition, which showcases pressing humanitarian and cultural debates shaping the world.
“It’s quite a small space, but we try to pack quite a few activities in there. There are nonsensical road signs that maybe don’t make sense or prompt questions,” she said.
“I’ve always wanted to make work based around street signs and place finding, and following themes from Janenne’s exhibition gave me the perfect opportunity.
“There’s a lot of mirrored works because Janenne uses mirrors in her work quite a lot and, looking at her techniques, she also uses rubbings and stencils, so we’ve got an area that’s quite textural.”
Ms Orpin said the space was designed to spark imaginations and encourage gallery visitors of all ages to explore different themes in new ways.
“I loved exploring Janenne’s work and the themes in that and how we can talk about surveillance or refugees to a child,” she said.
“So, distilling down big issues and making them more palatable for a child while still being able to discuss these important issues.
“Kids are aware of the world, and I think it’s important to discuss bigger issues with them in an every day and non-scary manner. I hope the messages conveyed are both fun and thought-provoking.”
Geelong Gallery chief executive and director Humphrey Clegg said the space was a family-friendly extension of the gallery’s major exhibition.
“Kids and families bring life and energy to galleries which are often thought to be quiet and restrictive spaces,” he said.
“So, Geelong Gallery is delighted to celebrate this vitality through Beci Orpin’s wonderful response to Janenne Eaton’s exhibition. Don’t miss this fun way to share art with your family.”
