I just saw the information for the NGV’s latest kids’ exhibit, and honestly, it appears to be an event worth attending. It has officially made it on our list of activities we must do to do with the kids for the latter half of the year.
This time, the exhibit is created by Ragnar Kjartansson, the Icelandic artist, who has brought something quite special for kids. The complete setup revolves around the concept that using only a pen, paper, and a hand-sketched cake stage, any kid is able to enter the artistic world and turn into an artist on their own. Sometimes, every kid really need is some space to be creative and an environment where they feel free to imagine anything.
NGV Children’s Play: Ragnar Kjartansson reviews
The entire idea behind “Children’s Play” essentially draws from those big, theatrical medieval feasts—picture lengthy tables, extravagant costumes, and abundant laughter—and weaves it all into a magical world rich with theatricality, fantasy, and artistic visuals. The first sketches already have that classic storybook charm: an imposing five-layer cake, soft velvet curtains on stage like something from a different period, and beautifully intricate hand-rendered backdrops that seem as tasty as they look. You inevitably become caught up by the magical feeling, only by seeing it.
This caught my attention: there exist three artist-rendered, engaging stage designs to explore. One is a warm wooden cabin, another takes you directly into a Rococo-style garden (envision decorative wigs and secretive corners), and the third presents a whimsical snow-blanketed woodland that looks like it came from a storybook. They have created costumes and props, too, so children can step in as performers or create their own tales—without scripts, only imagination. And, of course, the main attraction is this huge, fluffy cake that you can really climb on, play with, and take all those cute pictures. What’s more, the kids are able to create their very own tiny cake sculptures, and honestly, it’s sure to be a favorite with kids who like to get involved.
A significant plus: the entire exhibition is intended to be relaxed and soothing. There is no excessive loudness or confusion that is often present in events for kids. The little ones get to explore in their own time, and older children have the opportunity to lose themselves within the blend of drama, art, and imagination.
If your kid enjoys drawing, this is a dream come true. Mine took a long time at the drawing table and ended by sketching all the cakes on display—it became his first serious try in still life. There is plenty of space for role-playing, small performances, or simply creating stories quietly on the fly. Everything combines to create the environment seem cozy, inviting, and motivating for kids of all ages.
So, mark your calendar:
NGV Children’s Play: Ragnar Kjartansson
Date – 26 June 2026 – 4 October 2026
Address – NGV International, Ground Level Children’s Gallery
Best part? Admission is free of charge.