Scandinavian Sculptures

Scandinavian culture encompasses the regions of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, with each country's sculptures reflecting their history and culture. In Sweden, for example, public sculptures of former King Charles XII are common, reflecting on a glorious past.

Most Scandinavian sculpture is figurative. However, the area's prominence in the world of modern design is also reflected through popular contemporary sculpture.

Norwegian sculptor Knut Steen is well known for his marble works. A working artist from the '60s until his death in 2011, Steen's elegant figurative works challenged the notion of conceptual art. Denmark is home to popular contemporary painter, filmmaker, and sculptor Per Kirkeby. His works can be seen in the collections of the Tate Gallery, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Museum of Modern Art.

Quick Facts

• Scandinavia excels in remarkable sculpture gardens, including Millesgarden outside Stockholm and Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo
• Per Kirkeby's "Der Grösste Kopfy Mit Arm" sold at Sotheby's London in October 2005 for $66,000
• Sweden has a booming contemporary art scene, which includes art institutions such as The Modern Museum, Signal—Center for Contemporary Art, and the Göteborg International Biennial for Contemporary Art