An immersive inflatable, pink-hued sanctuary has transformed a historic city building into a living canvas, serving as a centrepiece of an arts festival.
Spanish collective Penique Productions are behind MATRIA, an installation that invites visitors into a surreal, womb-like environment at Melbourne's Royal Exhibition Building.
The installation opens on Thursday and is one of the 140 free and ticketed events as part of the citywide Now or Never festival.
Artist Sergi Arbusa is excited for people to experience his installation, which uses monochromatic recycled pink inflatable plastic to reshape the building.
Running over four days, the space will hold a series of events, including morning breath work sessions and a night-time performance program.
"It's an invitation to have an artistic experience," Mr Arbusa told reporters.
"This is an open work, you can feel something."
From kinetic light and sound installations to large-scale live music performances, the Now or Never festival explores arts, sound and technology.
More than 400,000 people were expected to attend the festival, generating close to $15 million for the city.
"It cements our place as Australia's arts capital," Lord Mayor Nick Reece told reporters.
Mr Reece said the festival line-up brought together visionary thinkers to spark ideas and offer a glimpse into the future.
"There'll be light displays, installation art, incredible electronic music performances, and amazing artworks on display," he said.
More than 285 local and international artists will take part in the festival, including 30 works making their Melbourne debut.
Melbourne Town Hall will be transformed into a large-scale music venue as part of the program.
Melbourne's Evan Walker Bridge will also be immersed in a sonic installation, while the State Library will play host to a large-scale facade projection.
Now or Never runs from August 21 to 31.
