This summer take a closer look at the brilliance of Dutch artist Escher in the heightened space designed by Japanese design studio, nendo.  Quite simply it is a marriage of sensibilities that couldn’t be more perfect.  Escher X nendo is an experience that will long be remembered.

When: until 7 April 2019

Where: NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road MELBOURNE

Cost: Adults $28, child $10, family (2 adults & 3 children) $65 BUY NOW

Escher was a brilliantly creative artist who loved working within the limiting discipline of printmaking.  It seems his love of precision and mathematics should be at odds with this creative genius… but something quite special comes from this unique thinker – things are not always what they seem… but implausibly they appear to work, despite us knowing that in reality all logic is defied.  This is both confronting and amusing – and forces the viewer to consider a new point of view.  You may find yourself turning to strangers in the gallery to check that they can see what you see!

Such an experience is something that primary school-aged children and older will enjoy.  Each work can be viewed as a challenge – how many animals can you see, can that be real, how does that work, what can you see if you focus on only the black or only the white, and so on!  The NGV has also included some captions specifically for the kids.

Over 160 of M.C. Escher’s artworks are on display in this exhibition – and rather than present them in the usual gallery execution of a frame hung on a wall, the NGV have chosen to do something transformative.

What an exciting collaboration for the NGV to work with the team at legendary design studio nendo.  The precision and very careful consideration of the nendo design is one that both quietly supports our hero Escher – but equally delights as the exhibition continues to reveal itself.

We never lose sight of the artist being Escher, but as you journey through the space you begin to fall in love with the way the nendo design studio has celebrated Escher’s work.  Children will also find some of these spaces playful in their use of scale and space, as well as the contrast in light and the use of only a monochrome palate.

Supporting the exhibition is a fabulous children’s publication and at under $20 for an almost 100-page hardcover book filled with stories and activities inspired by Escher – it’s a wonderful keepsake.

Visiting the NGV with kids?  Be sure to check out the NGV Kids space currently featuring Julian Opie.

Looking to plan a special Escher X nendo day out (minus kids)?  The Sofitel Melbourne is hosting Escher X nendo inspired High Tea’s during December, click here for more details {it’s delicious!}.