Mika Utzon Popov

Mika Utzon Popov’s work Illuminate revels in dichotomies, exploring contrast as a key theme. From an intersection between smoothness and roughness, light and dark, and stillness and change, emerges the sculpture, with its rough patinaed exterior, and gleaming polished bronze internal void. Standing tall at 3 metres, the totemic sculpture invites interaction, creating a steadfast symbol of strength in a time of unprecedented change, and speaks to the ways in which during turbulent times, honesty and integrity become essential pillars upon which relationships are sustained and futures are forged. Sited in the central foyer of the flagship showroom of Eco Outdoor a bespoke design firm, Illuminate becomes an enduring reminder to pursue veracity in moments of uncertainty.

Fabricated in UAP’s Australian foundry, Mika Utzon Popov approached UAP with an idea to pitch the artwork concept to Eco Outdoor. A highly collaborative process ensued wherein throughout a technical design process, the artist worked alongside UAP’s specialist craftspeople to develop a bespoke methodology which saw the artist moulding plasticine to create the highly textural exterior which exposes the workings of the artist’s hand. Following this process, UAP cast the plasticine mould using a sand cast method to capture the detailed surface created by the artist. Mika Utzon Popov worked with UAP to create a unique patina which was applied over the exterior, further creating a contrast between the internal and external surfaces.