Opie has created an installation of over 40 works that respond to the design of the Lindo Wing, located throughout all five floors of the building. His concept is inspirational in its focus on the human body. Opie explains how he has drawn together ‘a troupe of images and individuals to please and engage’ the viewer, adding ‘the people I have drawn are real people including friends and family. Paul and Bibi, both aged five, for example, run together around the top floor. They are depicted in stark black pictograms that when combined suggest animated movement throughout the corridors. On each floor a slightly different cast of people and a different type of composition is played out on glass panels that are either integral to the interior or attached, like public information panels, to the walls. Locomotion is inherent to life and seemed appropriate to a place of healing and birth. I hope this project will be soothing in a lively, playful way like watching kids in the playground or crowds on the street as you move among them.’
Julian Opie is an English sculptor, painter, printmaker and installation artist. He lives and works in London. Visit his website to view more of his work.
