Artist Nina K Ekman, Scandinavian artist from Copenhagen and based in Palo Alto Northern California, was invited to exhibit within the Musiksalonen of the French Embassy in Copenhagen – a room full of her recognisable sculptures for the exhibition COP – Conference of Plants. While not exactly LA, it was so lovely to see a collection of 50 of Nina’s works curated within the Baroque era palace. Some of the artworks may look familiar as they were previously exhibited at ‘Past Present Future‘ – the exhibition I held back in June 2023. They had been transported all the way from Los Angeles to be in the show, and I absolutely love the contrast between Nina’s art and the decorative style of the hall.
I love the fact this space has been designated for ‘VIPs’, and is now being filled with my Very Important Plants. And now we are the ones who have got to find our way around them…and not vice versa.
Some of the trees and plants were already made for other projects and exhibitions, but most of the sculptures were especially made to be able to overgrow and inhabit the whole salon.
The VIP sculptures, however, are hard to miss – they are all over the salon – loud and clear. They are having their own COP here a conference of plants. Their cry for attention is legitimate. Moreover, I need to mention that all the sculptures are made of 99% deadstock yarn from the textile industry and also that they are stuffed with old newspapers. Recycling and circularity are of great importance in my work and constitute a consistent choice that runs throughout my practice.”
– Nina K Ekman
Making our way back to LA now, and to what is an entire coincidence, was my involvement with the American French Film Festival here back in late October and November. Working with the organisers, I curated the ‘Green Room’ within the Directors Guild of America building where the festival was held. It was within here that interviews with actors and actresses were filmed, specifically interviews for Golden Globe nominated Emilia Perez, as well as lounge areas throughout the temporary space. I chose pieces from Audo Copenhagen and lighting by New Works to furnish the spaces.
During the holiday season when I often feel a little far away from home, it is nice to know that there are connections and family which are never that far away in LA.
Wishing everyone a happy holiday, and I look forward to celebrating the new year with you.
