Julian Opie’s ‘Curly Hair’ at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery

Julian Opie’s sculpture Curly Hair is a standout in Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery’s permanent collection, drawing art lovers to experience its contemporary charm firsthand.

Standing over two metres tall, Curly Hair features a continuous computer animation on double sided LED monolith portraying a figure in perpetual motion, confidently striding towards Pitzhanger. This work blends technology with artistic design, mirroring the ingenious architectural design in which Sir John Soane’s designed Pitzhanger Manor. The stylised, minimalist design, hallmarks of Opie’s signature style, captures the essence of human movement and individuality with clarity and simplicity.

Installed in the front garden of Pitzhanger Manor, Curly Hair is free for everyone to experience. It serves as a gateway to Pitzhanger, encouraging visitors to explore the historic manor and its dynamic programme of exhibitions. The sculpture bridges past and present, reflecting the dialogue between Sir John Soane’s iconic architecture and today’s contemporary creativity. Just as Soane celebrated classical and modern art in his time, Curly Hair exemplifies the ongoing connection between the historical and modern.

Journey to Pitzhanger

Originally showcased as part of Julian Opie’s 2021 solo exhibition at Pitzhanger, Curly Hair quickly captured the hearts of visitors. Opie’s exhibition at Pitzhanger spanned the gallery, the Manor, and Walpole Park. By placing his works in a way that mimicked the kind of displays typically found in historical museums—statues on plinths and large panoramic paintings in the background—Opie invited the audience to engage with the statues by wandering among them, discovering dynamic perspectives, and creating their own compositions.

Just as Soane regarded the classical sculptures he brought back from Italy as true witnesses of a past age, Julian Opie’s Curly Hair serves as a true witness of ours.

The joy the public felt in drawing these connections inspired us to launch a campaign to raise funds to acquire Curly Hair. Thanks to the generosity of funders, including Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Art Fund, McGrath Charitable Trust, Lisson Gallery, and the local community, Curly Hair now holds a permanent place in Pitzhanger’s collection—an artwork beloved by both Pitzhanger and the public.

Plan Your Visit

Discover Curly Hair in its permanent home at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery. Enjoy looking at how Julian Opie’s use of light and form transforms the simple act of walking into an artistic statement.

For more information about Pitzhanger’s permanent collection and exhibitions, click here.