A vibrant ecosystem created by artist Mathias Malling Mortensen transforms the gallery into a universe with space for contemplation. In a completely controlled environment, objects from the same origin are re-arranged and re-composed. Although connected, everything here is in eternal transformation. Different scales of expression are brought together in Malling Mortensen's experiment of what happens when we step out of line, but still remain in full control.

The title refers to the artificial environment of the winter garden. The winter garden was a  fantasy of a world made real. A temporary refuge from everyday life. A space, which allowed exotic and tropical vegetation from different corners of the world to be displayed together, even in temperate or cold climates all year around.

The exhibition includes paper reliefs on wood, drawings and paintings. An installation is created with the gallery space in mind. A paper construction installed from the ceiling. Walking around the perspective changes. Everywhere, fragile shapes imitate the negative space left over from cutting up paper. Compositions questioning the idea of organic creation. What is planned and what is left to chance?

Some say that creativity arises in situations of order and limitation. The Winter Garden is an example of a disciplined, ordered environment which makes the otherwise impossible, possible. Even when controlled, the winter garden remains a space for the unexpected, as nature has a life and a will of its own. We can never be quite sure how it will ultimately evolve. In ‘The Winter Garden’, Malling Mortensen explores the blooming relationship between order and creativity. Strict and graceful at once, the work extends an invitation to the viewer.


Efrat Edelsten, curator