Danish artist Naja Utzon Popov’s dramatic ceramics preside over the Woodland garden, where light and shadows dance across the surface. Naja’s inspiration has always come from a deep fascination for the shapes and patterns of nature in her homeland of Denmark, where a passion for textile design, sculpture and form has run in her family’s blood for over three generations. As the granddaughter of the celebrated architect, Jørn Ut- zon, and daughter of acclaimed Australian architect, Alex Popov, and eminent Danish artist, Lin Utzon, Naja’s works of art reflect a modern edge derived directly from the simplicity of the natural surroundings and aesthetic sensitivity in which she has been immersed all her life. Her childhood surrounded by inspiring family has shaped her practice, with nods to her Australian heritage and contemporary Scandinavian design. These influences find expression in her work, where she translates her encounters with nature into sculptures, ceramics, glassware and textiles.

Consisting of twelve columns, Naja explores texture and mark making - from precise linear designs,  Aboriginal and Japanese influences, to a more organic and natural style.  A limited palette of three colours ties the installation together - allowing for play within placement to create conversation and contrast. 

Twelve is symbolic - in many cultures and across many fields.  Time keeping and calendars throughout the Western world and beyond, through nature we see twelve lunar cycles, and the number itself carries many perfect mathematical qualities. The number twelve carries religious, mythological and magical symbolism; generally representing perfection, entirety, or cosmic order in traditions since antiquity…the list goes on.

“Inspired by the birch forests of Scandinavia, these massings of ceramic columns display a delicacy that belies their strength” 

- ‘Traces of The Past’ Naja Utzon Popov

Outdoor Sculpture