Looking for a creative day out with the kids in Melbourne? A brand-new exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria International is set to turn imagination into the main event.
Opening this winter, Children’s Play: Ragnar Kjartansson invites children to step into a playful world inspired by theatre. This free exhibition in the NGV Children’s Gallery encourages kids to perform, create, draw and explore art through storytelling and play.
Running from 26 June to 4 October 2026, it’s a fantastic option for families looking for a creative and interactive activity during the winter school holidays or on a weekend visit to the city.
NGV Children’s Gallery: A theatre-inspired art space designed for kids
Unlike traditional gallery exhibitions, where children are asked to look quietly from a distance, this exhibition encourages them to jump right in.
Inspired by the theatrical upbringing of Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson, the Children’s Gallery has been transformed into a colourful, imaginative space where kids can explore performance, storytelling and creativity.
Young visitors can step into different roles:
- Be an audience member watching stories unfold
- Become an actor performing on stage
- Play the creator, inventing their own stories with friends or family
The exhibition celebrates the fun and spontaneity of theatre. Kids can experiment with ideas, create characters and perform their own mini productions.
For parents, it’s a gallery experience where participation is encouraged, and imagination leads the way.
Draw, imagine and play with food-inspired art
Another highlight of the exhibition takes inspiration from the theatre tradition of “dinner and a show.”
Large banquet-style tables are arranged like colourful still-life displays filled with elaborate food arrangements. But these displays aren’t just for looking at.
Children are invited to sit down and draw what they see.
What would they choose from the feast? What do they imagine it tastes like? What would their dream banquet include?
This simple activity encourages observation, creativity and storytelling all at once.
Build colourful cake sculptures
The exhibition finishes with a playful twist that younger visitors will especially love.
Soft, colourful upholstered cushions are scattered throughout the space. Children can stack, arrange and balance them to create their own topsy-turvy cake sculptures.
It’s tactile, creative and a fun way for kids to explore shapes and structure through play.
Expect lots of colourful towers, wobbly creations and imaginative “desserts” built by little hands.
A great introduction to art for kids
The NGV Children’s Gallery exhibitions are designed to make art accessible for younger audiences.
Rather than focusing on complex concepts, Children’s Play centres on things kids naturally enjoy:
- storytelling
- performing
- drawing
- building
- imaginative play
For families visiting the NGV, it’s an easy way to introduce children to the gallery environment while letting them explore and interact.
Don’t miss the main exhibition: Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy
While the children’s exhibition will be the highlight for many families, the NGV is also presenting the first major Australian exhibition of Ragnar Kjartansson alongside it.
Titled Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy, the exhibition features eight large-scale video works combining music, humour and performance.
One of the most famous pieces included is The Visitors, a nine-screen video installation filmed inside a mansion where musicians perform together from different rooms. The work has been widely celebrated internationally and offers a mesmerising experience for visitors.
The exhibition also features the Australian premiere of Sunday Without Love, a visually striking video performance inspired by folk traditions and classical painting.
For parents visiting with older kids or teens, these works provide an opportunity to explore contemporary art that blends music, storytelling and visual spectacle.
Plan your visit to NGV
Both exhibitions will be on display at National Gallery of Victoria International on St Kilda Road.
The Children’s Gallery exhibition is free, making it a great addition to a family day exploring the NGV, the Arts Centre precinct or the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens.
Exhibition details
Children’s Play: Ragnar Kjartansson
NGV International, Melbourne
26 June – 4 October 2026
Free entry
Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy
NGV International, Melbourne
26 June – 4 October 2026
More information is available via the NGV website.
Tips for visiting NGV with kids
Visit the Children’s Gallery first
Kids will be excited to explore and play. Starting here lets them dive straight into the interactive experience.
Allow time to create
The drawing stations and play areas are designed for kids to linger. Plan at least 30–45 minutes.
Combine it with other NGV spaces
The NGV often has family-friendly installations throughout the gallery. Wander through and see what catches your child’s attention.
Pack snacks or plan a café stop
The NGV Cafe, and Tea Room are both nearby if you need a break.
NGV Children’s Gallery – FAQs
1. How old should my child be to enjoy the NGV Children’s Gallery?
The exhibition is designed for children of all ages. Younger kids will enjoy the play and stacking activities, while older kids can engage in storytelling and creative performances.
2. Is the NGV Children’s Gallery free to visit?
Yes! Entry to the NGV Children’s Gallery is completely free, making it a perfect family-friendly activity in Melbourne.
3. Can parents participate in the activities?
Absolutely! Parents and carers are encouraged to join in, help children create stories, and even perform alongside them.
4. How long should we plan to spend at the NGV Children’s Gallery?
Most families spend about 30–60 minutes exploring the interactive installations, performing, drawing, and building with cushions.
5. Are there facilities for families at NGV International?
Yes. NGV offers family-friendly amenities, including accessible bathrooms, a café, and seating areas throughout the gallery.
6. Can we combine a visit to the NGV Children’s Gallery with the main Ragnar Kjartansson exhibition?
Definitely. While the children’s gallery is designed for play, older children and teens may enjoy Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy, which features video artworks combining music, humour, and theatre.
7. Do we need to book in advance?
No booking is required for the NGV Children’s Gallery. Simply turn up and enjoy the interactive space during gallery opening hours.
8. Where is the NGV Children’s Gallery located?
It is located on the ground floor at NGV International, 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, alongside the main NGV exhibitions.
