Beci Orpin to present a new exhibition in Shepparton Art Museum’s Children’s Gallery from 16 September 2023.

Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) is pleased to present a new Children’s Gallery exhibition MUSH/ROOM opening this Saturday 15 September. Created by Melbourne-based visual artist Beci Orpin, the exhibition looks at the process of forming and playing with ideas through playful gigantic and tiny mushrooms and fungi.

Beci Orpin is a multidisciplinary artist, designer, and author recognisable for her joyous colour and animation. Over her 25-year career, Orpin has collaborated with major brands and organisations including Apple, Google, Disney, Uniqlo and The Australian Ballet, and has lectured and led workshops at national institutions including the National Gallery of Victoria, Craft Victoria and Melbourne Design Week.

Using a range of found, donated, and hand-made materials, Orpin’s MUSH/ROOM transforms the Children’s Gallery into a whimsical and playful room of mushrooms that will fascinate visitors of all ages.

SAM Curator, Caroline Esbenshade says  “SAM is excited to have Beci exhibiting with us in the Children’s Gallery. She has produced several projects, exhibitions and publications geared towards kids and we know that MUSH/ROOM will be a hit with visitors.

Featuring a giant mushroom and clusters of smaller fungi crafted from a variety of colourful materials, it’s the perfect setting for a game of ‘I Spy’ while considering how ideas develop.”

Families and children of all ages will enjoy the in-gallery activities with imagination taking the lead, “the SAM Art Card drawing series continues with MUSH/ROOM as visitors are prompted to envisage their own funky and fun fungi to go on display next to the exhibition” says Ms Esbenshade.

Additional programming will also be available throughout the duration of the exhibition, including a SAM Baby and a partnership with GV Libraries. More information on these programs will be available on the SAM website in the coming weeks.

Beci Orpin: MUSH/ROOM will be on display at SAM from 16 September 2023 until March 2024. Entry to SAM is free – view the full list of exhibitions on our website: https://sheppartonartmuseum.com.au/

Featured image: Artist Beci Orpin in MUSH/ROOM in the SAM Children's Gallery, Shepparton Art Museum, 2023.