UFO Utopia by Nigel Dobson
74 Common Road Dungog, NSW, 2420, Australia [View Map]UFO Utopia makes a commanding presence at Dungog Common Reserve near Dungog Common Hill. This unique corten steel sculpture, winner of the 2023 Sculpture on the Farm Inc. Acquisitive Prize, represents a fascinating fusion of Soviet-era monument aesthetics with science fiction and space travel themes.
The symmetrical structure dramatically blooms from the ground, offering viewers multiple perspectives and sightlines that change as they move around the piece. The massive scale and weathered corten steel material create a striking contrast against the natural landscape, enhancing its otherworldly quality.
Nigel Dobson’s artistic vision draws heavily from the monumental structures of Eastern Europe constructed during the 1950s-70s. By extracting their visual language and infusing science fiction elements, he creates sculptures with a distinctly futuristic character. His process involves cutting and welding corten steel sheets to achieve voluminous shapes that assemble into cohesive, dramatic forms.
A graduate of ANU School of Art (2014) and National Art School (2019), Dobson has received significant recognition in Australia’s sculpture community. His achievements include winning the prestigious Clitheroe Scholarship in 2019 and selection as a finalist in Sculpture by the Sea in both 2019 and 2022.
Originally from Canberra, Dobson returned to his hometown after several years in Sydney, where he continues his creative practice from his studio.
