The artist Julian Opie, who has received many awards, is one of the most important representatives of contemporary art. He is known for his highly individual style in graphic design, which has a high recognition value.
From 1979 to 1982 Julian Opie studied at Goldsmiths College, London. He is a painter, sculptor and video artist who became famous in the mid-1980s with metal sculptures made from painted everyday objects. He draws his inspiration from the world of comics and consumerism, Japanese mangas and woodcuts as well as classical portraits and sculptures. Julian Opie’s motifs range from nudes and portraits to figure paintings and landscapes. The works of the internationally successful artist are reminiscent of pictograms. Julian Opie explores the boundaries of stylization: To what extent can a person’s facial features be simplified while retaining their individuality? The artist has created his own universal visual language, which gives the motif an enormous variety of expression with minimal means.
His lenticular works are particularly in demand on the art market and are usually also available as limited editions as reasonable prices.. He describes the idea for this in this way:
“To be able to draw the subtle movements of the face, I had to find a new way of drawing. I looked at Japanese manga and old master paintings to understand how shadows instead of lines could be used for drawing. I used a 19th century invention with grooved lenses that gave the illusion of movement when you walked past a painting. As with the classic haunted house paintings, whose eyes follow you, I can make my portraits respond to the viewer. It’s a simple trick that doesn’t fool anyone, but nevertheless breaks the rules of reality. Magic is an important part of art and allows the image to break out of normality and bring communication, language, to life.”
Julian Opie’s work explores the intersection of art, technology, and popular culture, creating a visual language that is instantly recognizable and captivating.
Opie’s portraits are characterized by their simplified, minimalist aesthetic. He reduces his subjects to their essential features, employing clean lines, bold colors, and minimal details. The figures in his portraits are often depicted in a flat, graphic style reminiscent of digital icons or symbols, reflecting the influence of technology on our modern lives.
One of Opie’s signature techniques is the use of black outlines to define his subjects. These outlines give his portraits a sense of clarity and precision, almost resembling the appearance of a computer-generated image. He often portrays individuals in a frontal or profile view, capturing their essence in a distilled and straightforward manner.
While Opie’s portraits may seem minimalistic at first glance, they possess a remarkable ability to convey the personality and individuality of his subjects. Through subtle changes in expression, posture, and clothing, he captures the essence of each person he portrays. The simplicity of his style allows viewers to focus on the fundamental qualities that make each individual unique.
Opie’s portraits often incorporate elements of movement and time. Some of his works feature multiple images of the same person, capturing different poses or expressions in a sequence. This dynamic portrayal hints at the transient nature of human existence and the passage of time. Opie’s subjects come alive through the subtle shifts in their depiction, offering a glimpse into their inner worlds.
Another notable aspect of Opie’s portraiture is his exploration of the relationship between the individual and their environment. He often incorporates elements of the urban landscape or natural surroundings as backdrops to his portraits. This juxtaposition creates a dialogue between the subject and their surroundings, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay between humans and their surroundings.
Julian Opie’s portraits have gained international recognition and have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums worldwide. His innovative approach to portraiture challenges traditional notions of representation and pushes the boundaries of contemporary art. Through his distinctive style, Opie invites us to question how we perceive and interact with the world around us, and to reconsider the essence of human identity in our increasingly digital and interconnected society.
When buying a Julian Opie artwork, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are some important points to pay attention to:
- Authenticity: Verify the authenticity of the artwork by purchasing from reputable sources such as established galleries, auction houses, or directly from the artist’s studio. Request a certificate of authenticity or any supporting documentation to validate the artwork’s origin.
- Provenance: The provenance of the artwork, which is the record of its ownership history, is crucial. Ensure that the piece has a clear and verifiable lineage, ideally with documentation that traces its ownership back to the artist.
- Editions and Multiples: Julian Opie often creates editions or multiples of his artwork, particularly in mediums such as prints, sculptures, or digital works. Understand the edition size and whether the piece you are interested in is an original or part of a larger series. Limited editions are usually more valuable than open editions.
- Condition: Assess the condition of the artwork thoroughly. Inspect it for any visible damage, discoloration, fading, or signs of restoration. This is particularly important for artworks on paper or those with delicate materials.
- Artistic Style and Subject Matter: Familiarize yourself with Julian Opie’s artistic style and subject matter. Determine if the artwork aligns with your personal taste and preferences. Opie’s signature style typically involves simplified forms, bold lines, and vibrant colors.
- Research and Comparison: Research the artist’s market and previous sales records to understand the value and price range of Julian Opie artworks. Compare prices for similar works and consider factors like the medium, size, edition, and rarity.
- Display and Maintenance: Consider the practical aspects of owning the artwork. Determine if you have the appropriate space and conditions to display and preserve it properly. Some artworks may require special lighting, climate control, or specific handling instructions.
- Investment Potential: While art should primarily be enjoyed for its aesthetic value, it’s worth considering the potential investment value of the artwork. Opie’s works have gained recognition and popularity over the years, but it’s essential to consult with art advisors or professionals for detailed investment advice.
- Personal Interaction: If possible, try to see the artwork in person before making a purchase. Observing it firsthand allows you to appreciate its scale, texture, and overall impact. It can also help you develop a stronger connection to the piece.
- Budget and Financial Considerations: Set a budget that aligns with your financial capacity and desired level of investment. Consider additional costs such as shipping, insurance, framing, or any applicable taxes or duties.
Remember that buying art is a personal decision, and it’s important to select pieces that resonate with you aesthetically and emotionally. If you are unsure or have specific concerns, consider consulting art professionals, advisors, or galleries who can provide expertise and guidance throughout the purchasing process.
The works of Julian Opie are in the most important public collections and are presented in private and public spaces worldwide. In 2001 he received the Music Week CADS, Best Illustration Award for his album Cover Design for Best of Blur.
Selected Solo Exhibitions:
2024
BlackBox / Alexander Tutsek-Stiftung. Munich, Germany
April 18, 2024 to October 31, 2024
La Llotja. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
April 26, 2024 to August 31, 2024
Piazza del Quadrilatero, Milan, Italy
2023
Mango Museum, Changsha, China
Lisson Gallery, London
Kukje Gallery and F1963, Busan, South Korea
Galleria Valentina Bonomo, Rome, Italy
Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, Turin, Italy
Galleri F 15, Moss, Norway
2022
MIXC WORLD, Shenzhen Museum, China, October 1, 2022 to February 5, 2023
PARCO Museum, Tokyo, Japan, October 21, 2022 to November 14, 2022
2021
Un goût de vacances, des saveurs d’été. Meymac Museum, France
July 11, 2021 to October 17, 2021
La Nau Cultural Centre.
Valencia, Spain
May 27, 2021 to September 19, 2021
2020
Berardo Museum, Lisbon, Portugal
Galeria Duarte Sequeira, Braga, Portugal
Lisson Gallery, Shanghai
2019
Eden Project, Cornwall, UK
Lisson Gallery, New York, USA
Gerhardsen Gerner, Oslo, Norway
Lehmbruck Museum, Duisburg, Germany
Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery, Tokyo, Japan
Krobath Gallery, Vienna, Austria
2018
F1963, Busan, South Korea
Krakow Witkin Gallery, Boston, USA
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
2017
Fosun Foundation, Shanghai, China.
Fundacion Bancaja, Valencia, Spain.
“Julian Opie After Van Dyck” National Portrait Gallery, London, UK.
Suwon Ipark Museum, Suwon, Korea.
2016
Art Geneve, Geneva, Switzerland
Gerhardsen Gerner. Berlin, Germany
Krobath. Vienna, Austria
Maho Kubota Gallery, Tokyo
2015
ARCO, Madrid, Spain
Mario Sequeira, Braga, Portugal
“Recent Works”, Kunsthalle Helsinki. Helsinki, Finland.
Gerhardsen Gerner, Oslo, Norway.
2014
SCAI The Bathhouse, Tokyo, Japan
“Ikon Icon 2000s”, Ikon, Birmingham, UK
MoCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art Krakow), Krakow, Poland
“Julian Opie Collected Works” Holburne Museum, Bath and Bowes Museum, Durham, UK
Gerhardsen Gerner, Berlin, Germany
Krobath Galerie, Berlin, Germany
Channing School for Girls, ARK Gallery, London, UK
Kukje Gallery, Seoul, South Korea
“Winter and other Seasons: Landscapes by Julian Opie”, British Council, London, UK
2013
Barbara Krakow, Boston, USA
Valentina Bonomo, Rome, Italy
Krobath Gallery, Vienna, Austria
Patrick de Brock, Knokke, Belgium
Gerhardsen Gerner, Oslo, Norway
2012
Sakshi Gallery, Mumbai, India
Lisson Gallery, London, UK
2011
Lisson Gallery, Milan, Italy
National Portrait Gallery, London, UK
Krobath, Berlin, Germany
Bob van Orsouw, Zurich, Switzerland
2010
Barbara Krakow Gallery, Boston, USA
Mario Sequeira, Braga, Portugal
IVAM, Valencia, Spain
Galerist, Istanbul, Turkey
2009
Valentina Bonomo, Rome, Italy
“Dancing in Kivik”, Kivik Art Centre, Osterlen, Sweden
Kukje Gallery, Seoul, South Korea (exh cat)
Sakshi Gallery, Mumbai, India
SCAI the Bathhouse, Tokyo, Japan
Patrick de Brock, Knokke, Belgium
2008
MAK, Vienna, Austria (exh cat)
Lisson Gallery, London, UK (exh cat)
Krobath Wimmer, Vienna, Austria
Art Tower Mito, Japan (exh cat)
2007
Barbara Thumm, Berlin, Germany
Museum Kampa, Prague, Czech Republic (exh cat)
Barbara Krakow Gallery, Boston, USA
King’s Lynn art centre, Norfolk, UK
2006
CAC, Malaga, Spain (exh cat)
Bob van Orsouw, Zurich, Switzerland
2005
Mario Sequeira, Braga, Portugal
La Chocolateria, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
SCAI the Bathhouse, Tokyo, Japan
MGM, Oslo, Norway
Valentina Bonomo, Rome, Italy
2004 – 2005
Public Art Fund, City Hall Park, New York City, USA
2004
Lisson Gallery, London, UK (exh cat)
Wetterling Gallery, Stockholm, Sweden (exh cat)
Kunsthandlung H. Krobath & B. Wimmer, Vienna, Austria
Patrick de Brock Gallery, Knokke, Belgium
Barbara Thumm Galerie, Berlin
Krobath Wimmer, Wien, Austria
2003
Neues Museum, Staatliches Museum fur Kunst und Design in Nurnberg, Germany (exh cat)
K21 Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, Dusseldorf, Germany (exh cat)
Galerie Bob van Orsouw, Zurich, Switzerland
2002
Rebecca Camhi Gallery, Athens, Greece
Mario Sequeira Gallery, Braga, Portugal (exh cat)
Barbara Thumm, Berlin, Germany
Barbara Krakow Gallery, Boston, USA
Atelier Augarten, Galerie Belvedere, Vienna, Austria (exh cat)
2001
Lisson Gallery, London, UK
Patrick de Brock Gallery, Knokke, Belgium
Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, UK (exh cat)
Wetterling Gallery, Stockholm, Sweden
2000
Abbaye Saint-Andre, centre d’art contemporain, Meymac, France (exh cat)
Junge Kunst, Wolfsburg, Germany
SCAI the Bathhouse, Tokyo, Japan
1999
Primo Piano, Rome, Italy
Morrison Judd, London, UK
Tensta Konsthall, Stockholm, Sweden
Barbara Thumm Galerie, Berlin
Bob van Orsouw, Zurich, Switzerland
Stadtgalerie am Lehnbachhaus, Munich, Germany (exh cat)
Barbara Krakow Gallery, Boston, USA
1997
Gallery Nova Sin, Prague, Czech Republic (exh cat)
Barbara Thumm Galerie, Berlin, Germany (exh cat)
The Economist Plaza, London, UK
Kunsthandlung H. Krobath & B. Wimmer, Vienna, Austria
De Gouverneurstuin, Assen, Netherlands
1996
Galerie Analix B&L Polla, Geneva, Switzerland
CCC, Tours, France (exh cat)
Bob van Orsouw, Zurich, Switzerland
Lisson Gallery, London, UK
1995
Galerie de l’Ancienne Poste, Calais, France (exh cat)
Monica De Cardenas, Milan, Italy
1994
Kunstverein Hannover, Hannover, Germany (exh cat)
Galerie Albrecht, Munich, Germany
Tramway, Glasgow, UK (exh cat)
1993
Hayward Gallery, London, UK (exh cat)
1992
Wiener Secession, Vienna, Austria (exh cat)
1991
Kohji Ogura Gallery, Japan (exh cat)
Galerie Luis Campana, Frankfurt, Germany
Janner Galerie, Vienna, Austria
Galleria Franz Paludetto, Turin, Italy
Primo Piano, Rome, Italy
Kunsthalle Bern, Bern, Switzerland (exh cat)
1990
Lisson Gallery, London, UK
1988
Lisson Gallery, London, UK (exh cat)
Galeria Montenegro, Madrid, Spain
Paul Maenz, Cologne, Germany
1986
Franco Toselli Gallery, Milan, Italy
1985
Lisson Gallery, London, UK (exh cat)
Institute of Contemporary Arts, London, UK (exh cat)
Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, Jouy-en-Josas, France
1984 – 1985
Kolnischer Kunstverein, Cologne, travelled to Groninger Museum, Groningen, Netherlands (exh cat)
1983
Lisson Gallery, London, UK
WORKS IN PUBLIC COLLECTIONS
Aberdeen Art Gallery, Scotland, UK
Albertina, Vienna, Austria
Arts Council of Great Britain, UK
Banque Bruxelles Lambert, Brussels, Belgium
Carnegie Museum, Pittsburgh, USA
Collection Essl, Vienna, Austria
Contemporary Art Society, UK
Dentsu Building, Tokyo, Japan
Daimler Chrysler, Dresdner Bank, Berlin
Davis Museum, Wellesley College, Boston MA
Denver Art Museum, Denver, USA
Deutsche Bank, Frankfurt, Germany
Daros Collection, Zurich, Switzerland
Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane
Espoo Museum of Modern Art, Finland
Essl Collection, Vienna, Austria
Fonds National d’Art Contemporain, France
Fundacion Caja de Pensiones, Madrid, Spaibn
Gana Art Centre, Seoul, South Korea
Gjensidige, Oslo, Norway
ICA, Boston, USA
Institut Valencia d’Art Modern (IVAM), Spain
Kunsthalle Bern, Bern, Germany
Kunsthaus Bregenz, Bregenz, Austria
Kunsthaus Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Kresge Art Museum, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
Lenbachhaus Stadtische Galerie, Munich, Germany
Maison Europeene de la photographie, Paris, France
MUSAC, Leon, Spain
Museet for Samtidskunst, Oslo, Norway
Museo d’Arte Contemporanea LUIGI PECCI, Prato, Italy
Museum of Contemporary Art Krakow, Poland
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, USA
Museum of Modern Art, New York, USA
Neue Galerie – Sammlung Ludwig, Aachen, Germany
Neues Museum, Nuremberg, Germany
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
National Portrait Gallery, London, UK
Queensland Art Gallery, Australia
Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Takamatsu City Museum Of Art
The British Council, UK
The British Museum, London, UK
The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Portugal
The Government Art Collection, London, UK
The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Israel
The National Museum of Art, Osaka, Japan
The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo
Takamatsu City Museum of Art, Japan
Takamatsu City, Japan
The Tate Gallery, London, UK
The Tate, Liverpool, UK
The Victoria and Albert Museum, London, UK
UBS Art Collection
Wadsworth Athenaeum, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
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