Melbourne’s cultural calendar welcomes a significant moment this winter as the National Gallery of Victoria presents Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy, the first major Australian solo exhibition by the internationally acclaimed Icelandic artist. Opening at NGV International on 26 June, the exhibition brings together a series of immersive video works that explore the intersections of music, performance and storytelling through a distinctly contemporary lens.
Known for his ability to balance humour with emotional depth, Kjartansson’s work draws on references from literature, cinema and popular music to reflect on themes of love, melancholy and human connection. His pieces are both playful and introspective, inviting audiences to engage with moments that feel at once theatrical and deeply personal.
At the centre of the exhibition is The Visitors, a celebrated nine-screen installation that has been recognised globally for its scale and emotional resonance. Filmed within a historic mansion, the work follows a group of musicians performing together across separate rooms, creating a layered and immersive experience that unfolds in real time. The result is a quietly powerful portrayal of togetherness and solitude, set to an evocative musical score.
The exhibition also introduces Australian audiences to Kjartansson’s recent work Sunday Without Love, a visually rich piece inspired by traditional pastoral imagery and romantic ballads. Through repetition and performance, the work reflects on themes of longing and connection, reinforcing the artist’s ability to blend visual beauty with conceptual depth.
Extending beyond the main exhibition, NGV will also present Children’s Play, a dedicated experience designed to engage younger audiences through creativity and imagination. Inspired by Kjartansson’s theatrical upbringing, the space invites children to step into the role of performer, storyteller or audience member, encouraging a hands-on exploration of artistic expression.
As Melbourne continues to define itself as a leading cultural destination, exhibitions such as this reinforce the city’s connection to global creative dialogue. With its blend of music, performance and visual art, Ragnar Kjartansson: Mercy offers a compelling and accessible experience for both seasoned collectors and casual visitors alike, inviting the community to engage with contemporary art in a way that is both thought-provoking and deeply human.
LEARN MORE: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/exhibition/ragnar-kjartansson-mercy/
