Who is Julian Opie?
Julian Opie is a renowned British artist born in Oxford in 1958. He is a prominent figure in the New Sculpture movement, with a distinctive style that has left a significant mark on contemporary art. Opie studied at Goldsmiths School of Art under the tutelage of Michael Craig-Martin from 1979 to 1983. He is closely associated with the Cristea Roberts Gallery, which represents many of his works.
Instantly Recognisable Art Styles and Inspirations
Julian Opie's art is instantly recognisable, characterised by its reductive and stylised portraits, abstract geometric lines, and bold colour blocks. His inspirations range from classical portraiture and pop art to public signage and traditional Japanese woodblock prints. Opie's work often features everyday urban scenes and people, which he elevates through his unique artistic approach. His technique involves simplifying forms to their essential elements, creating works that are both minimal and strikingly contemporary.
LUXEMBOURG CITY, LUXEMBOURG - AUGUST 14, 2017: Permanent installation "Walking in the city" by Julian Opie located in front of Arendt House. Business man. Taken from Shutterstock.
Famous Works and Popular Culture
Opie's most famous works include his animated public sculpture "Shaida Walking" (2015) on London’s Carnaby Street. This piece, like many others, invites viewers to reconsider their relationship with space and movement. Opie gained widespread recognition with his portraits of the Britpop band Blur for their 2000 "Best Of" album. The artwork featured digital drawings of the band members, showcasing Opie's ability to convey personality with minimal lines and colour. His collaboration with Bryan Adams and his stage backdrop for U2’s Vertigo World Tour further cemented his place in popular culture.
In Exhibition and Auction
Julian Opie’s work has been exhibited worldwide, with notable shows in institutions such as The Museum of Modern Art in New York, the National Portrait Gallery in London, and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam. His exhibitions often draw large crowds, eager to experience his innovative blend of traditional and modern artistic techniques.
Julian Opie's artworks have fetched impressive prices at auctions. In March 2021, his painting "Walking in Sadang-Dong in the Rain" sold for £160,750 at Seoul Auction, marking his highest auction price to date. A comprehensive set of his "New York Couples" series sold for £104,809 at Christie’s New York in July 2022. His piece "Female Nude Standing Hands Behind" achieved £87,500 at Sotheby’s Contemporary Art Day Auction in London in February 2020. These results highlight Opie's growing international appeal and market.
Julian Opie, 'Jeremy', 2019
Collecting Julian Opie Sculptures and Prints
For collectors, Julian Opie's sculptures, prints, and editions are highly sought after. Lougher Contemporary offers a range of his works and can assist in sourcing specific pieces. Whether you are looking to add a unique sculpture to your collection or acquire a print that exemplifies Opie's iconic style, Lougher Contemporary provides expert guidance and a curated selection of available works.
Julian Opie continues to captivate the art world with his innovative approach to portraiture and his ability to distil complex subjects into simple yet profound visual statements. His work not only reflects his deep love of music and personal experiences but also his extensive knowledge of art history and contemporary culture.
