interview Jorge Perezchica
photography Jonx Pillemer courtesy of Daniel Popper
Daniel Popper, a distinguished artist and sculptor, weaves a narrative of creativity that traverses continents and transcends conventional boundaries. From the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the ethereal expanse of The Mojave Moon Ranch, Popper’s artistic journey is a captivating exploration of form, light, and human connection. Daniel Popper’s early years in Johannesburg, South Africa, laid the foundation for his artistic passion. Influenced by the profound works of renowned South African artist William Kentridge, Popper’s fascination with art was ignited. His relocation to Cape Town introduced him to the vibrant tapestry of outdoor music festivals and the majestic Western Cape landscapes, fueled his creative drive.
Educational pursuits in painting further refined Popper’s artistic acumen, steering his focus towards the intricate nuances of the human form. This academic journey laid the groundwork for an artistic career that would later see his unique creativity expressed through monumental sculptures and immersive installations.
“Transmission,” is a monumental sculpture that stands as a testament to the fusion of art and nature. Nestled within the private sanctuary of The Mojave Moon Ranch, “Transmission” casts a spellbinding allure. The interplay of steel and concrete gives rise to a captivating narrative, while the sculpture’s interaction with light and landscape creates a symphony of color and form.
Daniel Popper’s “Transmission” captures the exquisite beauty of art harmonizing with the raw grandeur of the natural world. The intricate dichroic mirror mosaics, which adorn stainless steel moons, create an ever-shifting kaleidoscope of hues, captivating viewers and fostering an intimate connection with the environment.
In the Coachella Magazine interview, we delve into Daniel Popper’s aspirations, inspirations, and the profound impact his art has on both individuals and communities. From early childhood to the immersive landscapes he creates today.
Coachella Magazine: Can you tell us about your early years and any experiences or influences that sparked your interest in art? Were there any significant moments or individuals who played a role in shaping your artistic journey?
Daniel Popper: I grew up in Johannesburg South Africa. William Kentridge was the major South African artist to influence me. I moved to Cape Town at 18 and was introduced to the outdoor music festival environment. The exquisite nature of the Western Cape contributed significantly to my influence.
CM: How did your pursuit of a degree in painting contribute to your artistic development? What were some key learnings or experiences during your time studying painting that influenced your artistic approach?
DP: I was always interested in classical figure drawing and I think this played a role in my fascination with the human figure on an academic level.
CM: After receiving your degree in painting, you began exploring installation and performing art. What inspired this shift? How did experimenting with different art forms impact your creative process and artistic vision?
DP: I moved away from the traditional art scene of galleries and fine art and moved into production design and stage design. I think moving into this field had less noise and less history to compete with. It also opened up a new way of thinking about scale and space.
CM: What inspired you to create the sculpture “Transmission”? Can you share the conceptual background and the ideas behind its design?
DP: I did a site visit and was immediately inspired by the surreal nature of the surroundings. I worked closely with the client to understand what about my work inspired them. They were inspired by my large scale figures particularly the serene female faces and large hands. This was a departure point and then we pushed further into the dream space to see how scale, texture and colour would compliment the space.
CM: How did the environment and surroundings of The Mojave Moon Ranch influence your approach to creating the sculpture? How does “Transmission” interact with the landscape and enhance the viewer’s experience?
DP: The epic surreal surroundings of the artwork inspired a psychedelic visionary approach to the creation. I wanted the figure to seam as though it was emerging from the landscape, Part of the spirit of the landscape, an entity embodied in the sculpture that contains the same life energy of the surrounding desert scenery. We went for dichroic mirrors mosaiced around the statue to reflect different colours and patterns and to be ever changing with the sunsets and times of day.
CM: What does the presence of stainless steel moons in the sculpture’s palms represent? How do they add to the narrative or message you intended to convey through “Transmission”?
DP: The venue which the installation was installed is called Mojave Moon Ranch. The perfect opportunity to play with the Lunar symbols.
CM: What kind of emotional or sensory response do you hope to evoke in viewers when they encounter “Transmission”? What do you want them to take away from the experience of engaging with this sculpture?
DP: I can only hope for a vast spectrum of emotional responses. Any response means the work is a success. what ever the viewer brings to the artwork is their personal story. I would never want to enforce or suggest how I want people to respond.
CM: Many of your artworks explore the relationship between humans and nature. Can you elaborate on the themes and messages you aim to convey through these installations and sculptures?
DP: It is a source of inspiration for me. The idea that Nature contains a spirit that is indistinguishable from our own. The idea that people can connect with an artwork that inspired the idea that we have an infinite depth of spirit. the same that can be found within nature. enduring, impartial, and forever in a state of growth.
CM: How do you believe public artworks, such as the ones you have created, can contribute to the community and public spaces? What effects do you hope your sculptures will have on the viewers and their surroundings?
DP: I remember when I had my first encounters with public art. How deeply inspired and affected I was. I hope to transmit the same energy of inspiration and creativity. The idea that we should seek novelty, make art and leave the world better than we found it.
CM: What are your future goals and aspirations as an artist? Are there any particular projects or concepts you are eager to explore in the coming years?
DP: To engage with powerful transformational landscapes around the world. To push my own boundaries of how my art can engage with these spaces and inspire generations to come . I have two daughters and would love to take them on a world tour one day when they are older to show them all the works my team and I have created.
WEB: www.danielpopper.com
SOCIAL: @danielpopper
LINKS: www.themojavemoon.com