For Swedish artist Nina Canell the nature of process is the material of her practice. Grounded as much in the chance encounter as in close study, her work is characterised by a syntax of relations and transfers, whereby material forms and immaterial forces are placed in proximity, facilitating dynamic relations to emerge and sculpture as an agency to take form.
The negotiation and displacement of energy has been an integral preoccupation in her work since the very beginning. Thinking beyond the tangibility of sculpture, she sees it not only as something that is grounded in material and objects, but more as a host that might act as a conduit for external events.
For Canell, sculpture is a condition; one that is highly sensitive to spatio-temporal variables. The environment in which her sculptures are placed determines the temperature, atmosphere and transformation of objects–just as they in turn shape what is around them.
Nina Canell (1979, Växjö, Sweden) lives and works in Berlin.
Her recent solo exhibitions include S.M.A.K, Ghent (2018); The Artist’s Institute, New York (2017); Museo Tamayo, Mexico City (2017); Arko Art Center, Seoul (2016); Moderna Museet, Stockholm (2014); Hamburger Bahnhof, Berlin (2013).
Her group exhibitions include: the Venice, Sydney, Lyon, and Liverpool biennials; exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art in New York; Palais de Tokyo, Paris, Witte de With, Rotterdam; the ICA, London, and the Kunsthalle Fridericianum, Kassel, among others.
Text courtesy Mendes Wood DM.

A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services