“This project is inspired by a separate project of murals in Nordvest currated by Jens-Peter Brask. I initially thought to stay in a literal dialogue with the mural I painted of my dog - Bird Saltarrelli - in front of a blue moon. Once I opened the box and saw the form of the sculpture, I realized my planning should be reconsidered. I wanted the sculpture to primarily remain what it is while presenting an image. Years ago, I made what I call carving paintings. They are a smooth surface of Prussian blue oil paint on wooden panel that has a hidden undercoat of a lighter color. The carvings are simply rendered figures who appear by removing the top layer. The smoothness of the sculpture reminded me of my carving paintings, so I chose to revisit that practice. As a result, I carved an alligator which is a symbol of home for me. Because this is a project to help the Danish Refugee Council, it felt particularly important to implement a personal element and symbol that both honors the meaning of heritage and home”.

About the artist: Born in 1979 in New Orleans, now based in New York. He was originally a photojournalist, but now works as an artist, illustrator and painter. He finds his inspiration in jazz, abstract animal silhouettes and colors.