Swedish Bulletin Summer 2014 by Swedish Bulletin

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SUMMER 2014 SEK 50

SUMMER 2014

Tommy Myllymäki WINNER OF BOCUSE D’OR EUROPE 2014

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A visit to Artipelag is always a mighty experience. Here you are met by unique art exhibitions, outstanding architecture and exceptional Scandinavian cuisine in the stunningly beautiful Stockholm archipelago. Artipelag is situated only 20 minutes from Stockholm city and easy to access by car or by bus from Vasagatan. You can also take the boat from Nybrokajen in the city center, which takes about one and a half hours. For further information regarding visiting hours and current timetable visit our website artipelag.se

SUMMER EXHIBITIONS No Man is an Island – Artistic Forays into the Stockholm Archipelago 23 May – 28 September, 2014 Tipping Point – A Sculptural Performance by the Artist Duo Bigert & Bergström in collaboration with the Performance Group Force Majeure. 3 July – 3 August, 2014

ART | ACTIVITIES | ARCHIPELAGO

Dear Readers, In this issue we celebrate Sweden at it’s very best. Summer has arrived, which means longer, sunshine filled days, and the opportunity to indulge in all that this joyful season brings. And the celebrations extend far beyond the midsummer solstice – the weekend closest to June 24th – where everyone heads to the countryside and coasts and the national characteristics of reserve and restraint dissolve over midsummer weekend. S U M M E R I 2014 P U B L I S H E D BY SWEDISH BULLETIN HB

RESPONSIBLE PUBLISHER AND CHIEF EDITOR TERESA IVARS A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R JUAN C IVARS LANGUAGE EDITOR M AT T L U D LO W COVER PHOTO

We set sail to the Stockholm Archipelago, exploring the summer delights of Fjäderholmarna, Sandhamn and more in our article The archipelago experience. Staying with the summer holiday theme we explore the Swedish love for all things nautical, which is especially evident at this time of year – The Swedes and their boats sheds light on the seasonal activities out on the open waves. And the archipelago does far more than just provide a destination for holidaying Swedes. Our article Art in the archipelago looks at the growing success story that is Artipelag – the brainchild of BabyBjörn creator Björn Jakobson. Swedish Bulletin takes the opportunity to talk about Public Art Agency Sweden and all of the fantastic work they’re currently doing to develop the interaction between contemporary art and public space.

T O M M Y M Y L LY M Ä K I , P H O T O BY B E AT R I C E L U N D B O R G / D N / T T

ART DIRECTOR MADELENE SÖRINDER MADELENE@PERFECTSTORM.SE CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE E R I C PA G L I A J U A N C A R LO S I V A R S LAUREN DYER AMAZEEN CHRISTINA LINDEROTH-OLSON MICHAEL HELANDER CHRISTIAN VON ESSEN D E R YA A K TA S E L I Z A B E T H D A C E Y- F O N D E L I U S MOIRA SULLIVAN PAT R I C I A B R E N N A N R I C K N E L L ELEONORA VON ESSEN ADVERTISING SMTM MEDIA GROUP

Our focus once again turns to Korea, and Sweden’s celebrated bi-lateral relationship with the Asian nation. SB speaks to Lars Danielsson, Swedish Ambassador to Korea, discussing all things from his illustrious career to the everstrengthening relationship and trade between the two nations. We also get the reverse perspective through speaking with Mr. Danielsson’s opposite number, Mr. Son Sung-Hwan, Korean Ambassador to Sweden. Mr Sung-Hwan highlights that, although at opposite ends of Eurasia, Sweden and Korea share similar societal values of innovation, open economics and international engagement. In the People section of this issue we look at the story of Antje Jackelén, the soon-to-be Archbishop of the Church of Sweden will ensure her place in the history books when she is inaugurated on June 15th. However, judging by her words on page 26, she will be remembered for far more than just that. We also look at the intriguing story of Emil Börner, photographer-come-bicycle adventurer, that’s on page 57.

MARTIN@SMTMMEDIA.SE +46(0)76 – 00 00 817

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N AND SUBSCRIPTIONS LARS EKHOLM +46 (0) 8 – 446 13 13 OR +46 (0) 70 – 235 13 13 PRINT HOUSE BILLES TRYCKERI, SWEDEN

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We celebrate chef Tommy Myllymäki’s victory at Bocuse d’Or Europe; further evidence of Swedish gastronomy’s rise to prominence. And staying with food we look at Swedish Strawberries – surely the best strawberries in the world! But then again I am biased! This time of year provides us with a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some of Sweden’s super foods, and SB promotes the many health benefits of these in our article Swedish super foods. So as usual SB is your perfect companion to guide you through the Swedish summer and all the beautiful and bountiful delights it has to offer.

E N G E L B R E K T S G ATA N 3 3 A 114 32 STOCKHOLM +46 (0) 8 – 446 13 13 info@swedishbulletin.se w w w. s w e d i s h b u l l e t i n . s e © Swedish Bulletin. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any format or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopies, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Teresa Ivars Publisher and Chief Editor

SWEDISH BULLETIN

FOCUS: KOREA

INTERVIEW

26 Håkan Lans – One of Sweden’s best known inventors

Ambassador Son Sung-Hwan

10 Swedish Bulletin speaks with Ambassador Lars Danielsson 14 Korea: A hot market to watch 17 Characteristics of Korean Culture SPECIAL FEATURE 22 Public Art Agency Sweden FEATURE 24

Antje Jackelén – Archbishop of the Church of Sweden

SWEDISH COMPANIES 30 Volvo Trucks – Second Largest in the World 32 Movers and Shakers: Top Swedish companies with global impact SWEDISH REGIONS 34 Excellent Drinking Water in Gothenburg 37 The Magic and Beauty of Gotland

SUMMER 2014

CULTURE & MORE

THE SWEDES

42 Art in the Archipelago

57 Bicycle adventurer takes on the world

44 Dardel and the Parisian Avant-Garde

59 Ship ahoy – Summer, sailing and the Swedes

THE SEASON

GOURMET

48 Wet and Wild Summer Adventure

60 Tommy is Europe’s best chef

50 Stockholm Surf Vikings

62 Strawberries – the best reason to love Sweden

53 The Archipelago Experience

64 Swedish Super Food

FILM

SWEDISH DIARY

54 Mia Engberg’s Belleville Baby wins the best documentary “Guldbagge”

66 Are you Swedish?

FOCUS: KOREA

Ambassador SON SUNG-HWAN From opposite ends of Eurasia, South Korea and Sweden share similar societal values of innovation, open economies and international engagement.

T E X T: E R I C PA G L I A P H O T O : C O U R T E S Y O F T H E KO R E A N A M B A S S Y

weden and the Republic of Korea hold in common the fact that they are two of only eight countries whose citizens have had the honour of serving as Secretary General of the United Nations, reflecting the vital role each country plays in international affairs. The current Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, had in fact just made a short call in Stockholm the day before Swedish Bulletin visited the magnificent Wenner-Gren’s Palace, which was designed by renowned Swedish architect Ivar Tengbom and since 1993 has housed the Korean embassy. Ambassador Son 8

Sung-hwan was still elated over the Secretary General’s sojourn in Stockholm as he sat down with Swedish Bulletin on a splendid spring afternoon to discuss his outlook on bilateral relations and share some of his remarkable experiences as a diplomat. Where has your diplomatic career taken you before becoming Ambassador to Sweden? “Since I joined the Foreign Ministry in 1977 I have had the opportunity to go around the world and gain a wide variety of experiences. I have been posted to New York, Moscow, Geneva, and Chicago. I am fortunate to have witnessed great game changers in history. When I worked in Moscow I had a chance to witness the collapse

of the Soviet Union and the raising of the Russian flag in the Kremlin in 1991. During my service in Chicago as Consul General I had a unique and moving experience observing the campaign trail and historic triumph of President Obama in 2008. To enjoy those rare moments in history is the kind of privilege that might be given to very fortunate diplomats.” “Before coming to Stockholm last June I was Ambassador for Climate Change for two years. I had to endure many sleepless nights in climate change–related meetings, notably the Conferences of Parties of the UNFCCC in Durban in December 2011. I was also very happy to be part of the campaign process for Korea to host the Green

tiveness of Korean industry. Meanwhile, more than 80 delegations composed of representatives from all sectors of Korean society visited Sweden last year. Such a remarkable increase in mutual exchanges and visits represents very healthy and promising relations, which are not limited to the bilateral level. Our global partnership includes coordinating development aid, expanding green growth policy, addressing climate change as well as strengthening peace-keeping operations. In that sense, I can ensure that there are enormous areas where the two countries can partner to take the lead in the international arena.”

Ambassador Sung Hwan Son and his wife Mrs Dong Ae Park in front of the Korean Navy Ship visiting Stockholm.

Climate Fund, the main multilateral financing mechanism to support climate action in developing countries. The selection of Songdo, a small but modern city near the Inchon International Airport in Korea as the host of the GCF, was the culmination of my career so far. Thus, I don’t think it was a coincidence that I was appointed as Ambassador to Sweden, which is one of the leading countries in the global environmental movement and climate change negotiations.” How would you characterise the state of Sweden – South Korea relations? “The state visit of His Majesty to Korea in 2012 was truly a milestone in bilateral relations. Since then, there has been remarkable progress in a wide variety of areas. In 2013 three Swedish ministers visited Korea, as did the leader of the Social Democratic Party who was particularly interested in the Korean education system and very strong competi-

What are you main priorities while Ambassador in Stockholm? “My first priority is to strengthen politicodiplomatic ties with Sweden in regard to building peace and security on the Korean peninsula, in which Sweden has long played a proactive role. Just after the breakout of the Korean War in 1950 doctors and nurses volunteered to go to unknown terrain in the Far East. They had cured more than 2 million patients during and after the war until the field hospital in Busan was converted into the National Medical Centre in 1958. After the war Sweden continued to maintain its presence in Korea as a member of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission to monitor the fragile armistice agreement between South and North Korea.” “As Ambassador I want to see the launching of a forum that can cover not only bilateral issues but a more comprehensive agenda such as unification of the Korean peninsula and a regional integration process. My second concern is to expand and deepen bilateral cooperation in economics and science. Our economies are highly trade–dependent and share much in common. Both countries suffered financial crises in the 1990s that we managed to overcome and return as more vibrant economies. Korea annual trade volume has surpassed 1 trillion US dollars since 2011.” “The EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement entered into force in 2011. The trade volume between Korea and Sweden in 2013 was around 2.5 billion US dollars and is steadily increasing. Minister of Trade Ewa Björling recently noted that Korea is one of most prioritised markets for Swedish trade promotion. One of the flagship economic policies of the current Korean administration is to promote the creative economy. We therefore aim to create the new economic eco-system where the spirit of creativity and innovation is flourishing. We wish to learn from Sweden how it has succeeded in establishing innovative eco-system through which the creativity and innovation can be nurtured.”

“In addition to the two priority tasks, I want to devote a large chunk of my time to public diplomacy – the set of activities for winning the hearts and minds of peoples of other countries using various non-traditional, soft–power tools. The essence of public diplomacy is effective communication with varied stakeholders in society, which can enhance mutual understanding. Strengthening people-to-people and cultural exchanges are essential to promote understanding of Korean culture and history. In this sense it is encouraging to note that Swedes have become more interested in K-pop, Korean food, film and literature. Likewise, Koreans are paying more attention to Swedish culture represented by figures like ABBA, Ingmar Bergman and Astrid Lindgren.” What similarities and differences have you observed between Sweden and South Korea? “Sweden and Korea share a similar status in the international community as middle powers in Europe and Asia respectively. Both countries depend heavily on trade and put high priority on R&D, investing more than 3.5 per cent of GDP. On the economic side both countries has many things in common. Firstly, we are heavily dependent on trade. Korea is poorly endowed with natural resources, so human capital and brainpower are the only things we can turn to. Like Sweden, it is logical for Korea to advocate the open and liberalised economy.” “Secondly, both countries have maintained very strong manufacturing industries that have proved to be essential to overcome current economic crises. Based on this we both strive to develop new economic growth engines. We have a great potential to cooperate in ICT, life science, shipbuilding, the defense industry and Arctic exploration. Koreans and Swedes alike love new technologies and are often early adopters. Both countries have hence become test-beds for global industries for mobile, IT, culture, gaming, and retail.” “Concerning societal differences, Korea is more action-oriented and full of can-do spirit. Decision making is swift. Swedes are more prudent and achieving consensus takes longer. But once decision is made its implementation is well executed. From the perspective of overall efficiency Sweden is second to none. Swedes are also good at balancing their life with work, and have built an egalitarian society, which highly values individual happiness and quality of life. There are thus plenty of areas where Korea can work together with Sweden, as the major policy goal of the Korean government is to bring happiness to all the people on the Korean peninsula, Northeast Asia and the global community.” ♣ 9

FOCUS: KOREA

P H O T O : PA W E L F L AT O

For 34 years Lars Danielsson has been dealing with international issues as a diplomat in the Swedish Foreign Service; serving in Peking, Geneva, New York and Hong Kong before being posted as ambassador to Seoul. “But half of my professional life, I have spent with two Swedish prime ministers, dealing with EU and international affairs”, says the Swedish Ambassador to Korea. T E X T: J U A N C A R LO S I V A R S

SW E D I S H B U L L E T I N S PE A KS W I T H

Ambassador Lars Danielsson SB: What are the core elements of bi-lateral relations between Korea and Sweden? “Our bilateral relations cover virtually every conceivable field. One cornerstone is our military presence on the Korean peninsula, which started with a field hospital during the Korean War and continues today with our members of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission. The second one is our economic relation which has been given a boost with the free trade agreement between Korea and the EU. A third one is

an exchange on how to meet the challenges that developed market economies like Sweden and Korea are meeting.” SB:What are your main goals or priorities while in Seoul as Swedish ambassador? “I would of course like to contribute to the increase of trade between our two countries. Also to be able to comprehensively answer all the questions I get from all parts of Korean society on how to handle various issues in a modern society – innovation,

education, gender equality etcetera. But I would also like to contribute to a greater know-ledge in Sweden about this great country.” SB:How would you characterise Sweden’s perception and interest in Korea? “There is a very positive attitude in Korea when it comes to Sweden. Our assistance during the Korean war and our continued military presence is well known and appreciated. Sweden is often seen as a model »

FOCUS: KOREA

“I also note that more and more Swedes come to visit Korea, which is great because this is a very interesting country to visit – safe, rich on culture, excellent infrastructure and many things to see.”

» society with our well-developed welfare system. I also note that more and more Swedes come to visit Korea, which is great because this is a very interesting country to visit – safe, rich in culture, excellent infrastructure and many things to see.” SB:What is the volume & balance of trade between the two countries? “The balance of trade between our two countries is quite even, normally around 8 billion SEK per year in exports and imports. With the implementation of the free trade agreement between the EU and Korea, I am sure that the figures will increase year by year.” SB:What are Sweden’s main imports and exports to and from Korea? “We sell and buy mainly the same things – cars, telecom equipment and manufactured goods of various kinds. In addition we buy a lot of ships from Korea.” SB: What is the volume of Swedish investment in Korea and vice versa? “Swedish investment in Korea amounts to 12

some 16 billion SEK. Korean investment in Sweden is quite small yet but will no doubt rise in the future.” SB:What sort of dialogue exists between Korea and Sweden regarding the international political situation of the Asian region? “We compare notes on a regular basis on a range of international issues. There is a steady flow of high level visitors from Sweden who discuss these issues with their Korean counterparts. The embassy maintains an extensive network of people knowledgeable in international issues. Korea is a G 20 country with an evermore active interest in most global issues.” SB: Sweden has traditionally shown interest in the political and humanitarian situation in the region. How do Sweden and Korea today cooperate in such issues? “The situation in North Korea is of course a matter for regular discussion between us. Since we have a diplomatic presence in Pyongyang, we can sometimes offer our assessment of what is happening in the very secluded country that is North Korea.”

SB:What are your impressions of the Korean people so far? “Koreans are extremely friendly and curious. They are also very frank and direct, which came a little bit as a surprise to me. And they really know how to work hard!” SB: Have you discovered any enjoyable activities in Seoul? “The most enjoyable activity in Seoul, in my mind, is eating Korean food. The Korean cuisine is now finally conquering the world with its variety, freshness and healthy content. There is an endless range of good and not too pricey Korean restaurants that I like to try.” SB: Do you have any particular hobbies or interests you enjoy pursuing in your free time? “There is no free time for a Swedish ambassador in Korea. But since my work also is my hobby, that is ok. What I enjoy doing is hiking in the mountains around Seoul and also some skiing in the winter time when a visit to Pyeongchang – the site of the Winter Olympics in 2018 – offers great downhill and cross country skiing.” ♣

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FOCUS: KOREA

KO R E A :

A hot market to watch T E X T: KO R E A N E M B A S S Y I N S W E D E N

KO R E A I S O N E of the hot markets

to watch over the next half decade,” according to Foreign Affairs, a leading U.S. international relations magazine, which hailed Korea in a recent issue. As one of the most active countries in pursuing Free Trade Agreements, Korea has signed FTAs with 47 countries - accounting for 61% of global GDP - including the United States, the European Union, and they are currently engaged in FTA-related negotiations with China and Japan. Korea’s active pursuit of FTAs vitalises the economy, and helps foreign investors do business more effectively in the world market. INDUSTRIAL POWERHOUSE

Korea has a number of global companies in various industries including automobiles, chemicals, steel-making, shipbuilding, electrical and electronics, and information technology. Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors, POSCO and SK Telecom are prime examples of Korea’s globally renowned companies. ICT industry-related products, such as computer chips and mobile phones, account for over 33% of Korea’s total exports. Korean smart phones produced by Samsung and LG are now among the most coveted in the world because of their high quality. Their semiconductors and displays are at the cutting edge of the industry. A key player in automobile manufacturing, Korea produced over 4.5 million vehicles in 2013, ranking 5th in the world. And as a major shipbuilding country, Korea leads the field in high value-added vessels such as LNG carriers as well as large-scale offshore facilities. Nearly every Korean owns at least one mobile phone, and 74% use smart phones. Moreover, almost every household has a broadband connection. Since Korean consumers have been shown to be early adopters, more and more foreign companies release their new ICT products in the Korean market first to evaluate consumer response. In 2013, Korea’s exports amounted to 560 billion USD, making it the 7th largest exporter in the world. AN EASY PLACE TO DO BUSINESS

According to Bloomberg, Korea is the most innovative country in the world. Such an innovation-

oriented social and corporate atmosphere has leads to great achievements for the multinational companies of Korea. Korea offers foreign investors various incentives based on the Foreign Investment Promotion Act, including diverse tax breaks such as on corporate and income taxes. Korea also offers foreign investors cash grants and can provide free land, such as plant sites, or loan them to investors at low costs. The Stockholm office of Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency, established by the Korean government, provides the necessary information and advice to potential investors. Among Korea’s greatest strengths are its excellent pool of human resources and its optimal business environment. The Korean passion for education is well known throughout the world, and Korea produces more than 100,000 science and engineering graduates every year. In Northeast Asia, there are more than 61 metropolitan cities of over one million inhabitants within a threehour flight radius of Seoul. Companies can easily expand to overseas markets after using Korea as a test bed platform. With its strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities, the Incheon International Airport has become a leading logistics and transportation hub in Northeast Asia. The FTAs that Korea has signed are drawing the attention of global manufacturing and distribution companies that want to use Korea’s air and sea ports as a trunk route. The Korean government has developed the Creative Economy Policy that aims to establish an entrepreneurial cycle in which anyone with innovative and creative ideas can launch start-ups and grow by easily securing investments. Investors can then retrieve their capital, which can be used to finance other tech ventures. The Korean government has also mapped out a Three Year Plan for economic innovation, including regulatory reform. The plan aims to strengthen the fundamentals of the economy, further transform Korea into a more dynamic and innovative economy, and pursue a balanced growth between exports and domestic demand. The Plan will help raise Korea’s potential growth rate to over 4 per cent, increase its per-capita income to over 30,000 USD, and boost the employment ratio to 70 per cent by 2017. ♣

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FOCUS: KOREA

C H A R AC T E R I S T I C S O F KO R E A N C U LT U R E DYNAMISM. Although traditionally known as ‘The Land of Morning Calm’, Korea has in recent years cultivated a unique dynamism through culture. Examples of modern art and pop culture such as Nam-Jun Paik’s video arts, Samul nori, and popular Korean B-boy groups demonstrate the power and energy in contemporary Korean culture. The world perhaps first took notice when Korean football supporters took to the streets wearing red t-shirts emblazoned with “Be the Reds!” as they cheered on their national team at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

The recent wave of K-Pop music sweeping the world also reflects the creativity of Korean culture. K-Pop is a creative and expressive cultural form that is not only produced by and for Korean people, but is an experience shared with the entire world, as many songwriters from the United States and Sweden take part in writing K-pop compositions. Behind the success of K-Pop are several distinctive characteristics of the genre. Firstly it pleases listeners with its blend of appealing melodies and strong beats. It also incorporates well-performed dance routines that go along with the music,

T E X T: KO R E A N E M B A S S Y I N S W E D E N

while the impeccable looks and fashion of Korean singers also play a role in winning over teenage fans worldwide. CREATIVITY. There is much that is unique in Korean cultural heritage. The Korean alphabet, known as Hangeul, is the native alphabet of Korea. It was invented by King Sejong of the Chosun Dynasty in 1443, and made it possible for ordinary people to express in writing what they were speaking. Hangeul can articulate almost all expressions in the languages of the world with scientific combinations of »

FOCUS: KOREA

flavours of various seasonings, differing them from one another. What makes Korean food truly unique is the harmony of taste created by an array of different meat and vegetable ingredients. According to Korean food culture, all dishes are set together, carefully designed and prepared in advance to ensure that all dishes are served in balance and harmony.

KOREAN RESTAURANTS IN STOCKHOLM Arirang: phone +46 8 673 32 35 Namkang: phone +46 8 611 32 92 Kimchi: phone +46 8 68 40 26 29 Korea House: phone +46 8 30 96 20 Koreana: phone +46 8 15 77 08

WEBSITES FOR INTRODUCING KOREAN CULTURE IN SWEDISH www.hannuri.se www.hallyu.se

» 14 consonants and 10 vowels. The Korean alphabet even comes in handy in the use of smart phones and keyboards. Due to the scientific excellence of Hangeul, the book that the King published for introducing the alphabet was chosen for the Memory of the World register by UNESCO in 1997. Another essential component of Korean culture is food. Korean cuisine has a unique flavour and taste, based on fermented sauces that are carefully and patiently made over a period of time. Moreover, thanks to the four distinct seasons in Korea, there are various kinds of vegetable dishes that are combined with natural oils, making them very healthy. Each Korean dish is infused with the colours, smells, textures and

DIVERSITY. Korea has a history that stretches back some 5,000 years, and in that time it has developed its own unique culture that has also been open to external influences. Korea has actively embraced foreign cultures in different historical and geographical contexts, and has played a role as a cultural hub in East Asia, especially between China and Japan. American and European cultures were brought to Korea during the 20th century, and Korean people were eager to learn and tailor them to the Korean way of life. Korea is today excited to share its culture with the world. It was in the late 1990s when the popularity of Korean culture sharply increased abroad. The boom began with the export of Korean TV dramas to Asian countries, and soon spread to movies and pop music. More recently, Korean culture has reached wider global audiences in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. The term ‘Korean Wave’ (Hallyu in Korean) was first coined by the Chinese press when referring to the popularity of Korean pop culture in China, and it subsequently evolved into a global cultural phenomenon. Now it seems that the Korean Wave has reached the shores of Sweden and gained much traction here, in particular K-Pop among youngsters, as well as Korean food and film. ♣

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You won’t meet any car dealers. Allow yourself a moment in the world of exclusive cars. You will ﬁnd quality, lifestyle products and emotion at Audi Forum at Norrmalmstorg (Hamngatan 17), one of Audi’s selected international showrooms. Have a close look at the latest Audi models, feel the materials and enjoy the wide range of high quality Audi merchandise, clothing, watches and accessories. For personal service, book an appointment with Urban Axelsson, our Manager Diplomat and VIP sales at 08-120 812 99. Welcome. Hamngatan 17, Mon–Fri 10–18, Sat 11–16, Sun 12–16.

S T O C K H O L M J U N I O R WAT E R P R I Z E

BR I NG I NG TOG E T H E R T H E WOR L D’S BR IGH T E S T YOU NG M I N DS Young people do not realise that a problem is unsolvable – so they solve it. That is the principle that drives the Stockholm Junior Water Prize. Every year since 1997, the world’s most imaginative young people have gathered in the capital of Sweden for a competition aimed at finding the best idea for improving the world’s water situation.

STOCK HOLM J UNIOR WATE R PRI Z E – FAC T S A ND FIGURES

Every year, thousands of students in over 30 countries enter national competitions with the hope to represent their nation in the international final. The competition is open to students between the ages of 15 and 20 who are passionate about water and the environment. Their projects cover a variety of water related topics - from strict scientific and technology oriented innovations to ideas of a more political and social nature. NETWORK WITH THE WORLD’S WATER PROFESSIONALS

Finalists from each country earn a five day trip to the final held during World Water Week in Stockholm, where they actively take part in the global conference and interact with today’s leaders in the global water arena. Inside the conference venue, a poster exhibition of all student projects gives the finalists an opportunity to discuss their projects with the wide range of high level attendees, including researchers, politicians and media: a perfect opportunity to inspire and get inspired. During the week every finalist is interviewed by a jury of international experts, who, based on the projects’ scientific significance and societal importance, decide on the winner whose name is then announced at the award ceremony. Ahead of the announcement, finalists are celebrated on stage with music and entertainment while eagerly waiting to see who gets the once-in-a-lifetime chance to receive the prize from the hands of H.R.H Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden. Besides their own ceremony, the finalists are treated with study visits and social activities

throughout the week. A highlight is the opportunity to attend the Royal Banquet in the Stockholm City Hall, where the prestigious Stockholm Water Prize is awarded. FIRST STEP TOWARDS AN INTERNATIONAL CAREER IN WATER

The Stockholm Junior Water Prize journey does not necessarily stop after World Water Week. Inspired by meeting water professionals face to face and learning from their experiences, many contestants decide to devote themselves to studies and careers in water and sustainability. While in Stockholm, students also build life-long friendships and start professional networks. There are many heartening success stories from the competition. In 2003, South African Claire Reid received the prize for the “Water Wise Reel Gardening” system that helped small scale farmers to be more efficient in their use of water in growing crops. Today, she has developed Reel Gardening into a successful, nation-wide business and goes on to win awards for her work. Alison Bick from the US developed a smartphone application that tests water contamination, an invention that earned her the 2011 prize. Now a junior at university, Alison has patented her application. She has even been approached by the World Bank hoping to use her technology to test water in Nigeria. Evidently, the creative energy of students in the competition help advance water knowledge. With ever increasing pressure on the world’s water resources, fresh ideas are critical to help solve water-related challenges. ♣

DOES YOUR COUNTRY WA NT TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMPE TITION? We co-operate with devoted national organisers in over 30 countries. During 2014, national competitions have been conducted in Argentina, Australia, Belarus, Canada, Chile, China, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, Ukraine and USA. Is your country not represented in the list above? Do you know of an organisation suitable to host the national competition? Get in touch - we are always looking for new inspiring organisers to help us aggregate and spread water knowledge. www.siwi.org/prizes/stockholmjuniorwaterprize

Stockholm Junior Water Prize was founded in 1997 by Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI). The world’s five continents are represented in the competition and 12 different countries have received the award. As of 2014, SIWI has increased the prize sums notably, to enhance the support and encouragement to young people’s interest in water and sustainability issues. The new prize sums are: Winner – USD 15,000 Winner’s school – USD 5,000 (new category) Diploma of Excellence - USD 3,000 H.R.H. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden is the Patron of the prize. Sponsors and supporters are Xylem Inc., SAS & Coca-Cola Foundations, Ragn-Sells, Trosa Tryckeri, and People Travel Group. Read more: www.siwi.org/prizes/ stockholmjuniorwaterprize

2 014 WORLD WATE R WE E K IN STOCK HOLM – E NE RGY A ND WATE R World Water Week in Stockholm is the leading meeting place to discuss the planet’s most urgent water issues. The week brings together 2,500 experts, practitioners, decision makers and business innovators from around the globe. This year’s focus is on the entwined relationship between energy and water. Read more: www.worldwaterweek.org

“We want art to be able to bring meaning and bewilderment, provoke new thoughts and insights.That we can present artworks, in the centre of where the audience is, in places where daily life transpires and people move about, is something we see as a privilege, as an inspiring situation.” Magdalena Malm, Director

P H O T O : G U O W E I YA N G

SPECIAL FEATURE

Magdalena Malm, Director

S I M P LY P U T, P U B L I C Art Agency Sweden, Statens

konstråd, explores and develops the interaction between contemporary art and public space. With a rich and rewarding history, it was founded almost 80 years ago during the period in Swedish history of rapid change and growth – when the welfare state came into being. As a government agency within the Ministry of Culture, this Agency was set up to position public art as a natural part of of Swedish Society. They are responsible for four principal initiatives, which have developed over the years: traditionally with permanent art works and art collections; more recently with temporary projects and urban development. The art collections for government offices and buildings here and abroad are mainly of Swedish artists, and are as artistically diverse as the institutions that house them: national insurance offices, police stations, job centres, the UN Headquarters in New York and Swedish embassies around the world. Since 2004, they also oversee the care of government-owned art and permanent, building-related art – approximately 100,000 highly valued public artworks located in more than a thousand government offices and buildings throughout Sweden and around 100 embassies and offices abroad. And, they work with close to 200 private property owners in the care and management of the building-related art commissioned from Public Art Agency Sweden. This now broadly includes artworks like sculpture and the moving image to sound-based works and even entire facades. The Agency engages with both established

Public Art Agency Sweden [ S TAT E N S KO N S T R Å D] T E X T: L A U R E N D Y E R A M A Z E E N

P H O T O : G U O W E I YA N G

Loft Lift, Stockholm. Artist: Simon Starling

international artists as well as emerging artists who are working for the first time with larger art projects in public spaces. Appointed a year and a half ago as the Director of this significant organisation, Magdalena Malm states that, “Our situation is very different today, and the challenges for public spaces are significantly different as well. Contemporary art has also changed radically during this time. It has, like no other art form, liberated itself from materials and exhibition spaces – and expanded into many other areas . . .” “We are in another phase of intense change and there is a great need to find new ways to formulate the idea of the public.” In 2012 they began working less with permanent artworks and assembling large art collections in government buildings in order to explore temporary, freer artistic projects of various lengths. They also wanted to use a multiplicity of expressions, develop collaborative urban development projects and not least of all, discussions and research that focused on new forms of public art practices. This is based on the fact that for several decades now many artists have looked beyond traditional exhibition spaces to realise their art projects, crossing into new areas – from film and design to politics and journalism.

PHOTO: ANDERS ALM

PHOTO: CHARLOT TE T STRÖMWALL

TWIST, Stockholm University Student House. Artist: Gabriel Lester

Many artists today naturally explore different kinds of public spaces and questions about the public in their practice. Therefore, through the initiative of temporary projects and collaborations in urban development, Public Art Agency Sweden can explore these new practices together with artists. Magdalena Malm has hired curators to be part of the organisation now in order to work more directly with artists and to initiate projects. She points out, “Producing new works in close collaboration with artists is at the heart of our organisation. This is where artists, curators and urban developers explore the relationship between art in all its forms and the different dimensions of public spaces. We produce artworks, reflections and dialogues.” Their mission now extends to developing this field beyond where it has been traditionally, bringing a new dynamic to the potential of public space. Between 2010 and 2013 Public Art Agency Sweden Public Art Agency Sweden worked with the Swedish National Heritage Board, Boverket – the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning, and The Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design on the government project Samverkan om gestaltning av offentliga miljöer (“Collaboration on the Design of Public Spaces”). This was a study to examine

Happy Space. Artists:Boel Hellman and Markus Aerni

how the design of public environments can be strengthened through collaborations between professional groups and citizens in the planning and building stages. Bringing artists into the mix could be a significant role for Public Art Agency Sweden. The criticality of their thinking around projects, their creative problem solving, relational abilities, and aesthetic focus, could give artists a significant role in the process of urban development as well as their desire to collaborate. The Agency would be there to help develop new methods of collaboration and new processes of working with engineers, architects and the public. Magdalene Malm and Public Art Agency Sweden are working with a number of organisations internationally to share experiences and methods of addressing the contemporary uses of public space. She believes “that in order to understand our own situation [here in Sweden], we must be aware of different conditions in different parts of the world. This reflects on how we value our own work, and gives us a deeper understanding.” Their work with the international community and an international summit to be held in Stockholm in November will be examined more in the upcoming Autumn 2014 issue. ♣ 23

FEATURE

A N TJ E J AC K E L É N ARCHBISHOP OF THE CHURCH OF SWEDEN The first woman Archbishop is a strong opinion maker and enthusiastic twitterer with many followers. T E X T: C H R I S T I N A L I N D E R O T H - O L S O N PHOTO: JAN NORDÉN

“I want to work for a joyful service – as the service is where the heartbeat of the church is to be found.” O N 1 5 J U N E 2 0 1 4 Antje Jackelén will be received as Archbishop of the Church of Sweden through a service in Uppsala Cathedral. Following 69 male Archbishops, she will be the first woman to take up the post. Since 2007 Antje Jackelén has been Bishop in the Diocese of Lund. She is known to be an enthusiastic twitterer with many followers, a strong opinon maker who is passionate about dialogues - between society and church, between natural sciences and religion, and between religions. Her comments stating that the virgin birth of Jesus is a mythological term or a metaphor rather than an actual event caused some controversy. HER MOTTO – “GOD IS GREATER”

Antje Jackeléns motto is “God is Greater” from 1 John 3. 18-20. Since her election in 2013, where she received 55.9 per cent of the vote, Antje Jackelén has been overwhelmed by greetings, well-wishes and assurances of prayers from many parts of the world. The media coverage has been very impressive. “My future work will be an interchange between me as a person and my role as Archbishop. Who I am will naturally influence my mission and vice versa. I want to work for a joyful service – as the service is where the heartbeat of the church is to be found. Other important parts are a dedicated church social work, a priority to share faith and life, to find new forms for the education of Christian faith, and last but not least, to have a dialogue within the church, ecumenically and interreligiously with society, culture and natural sciences”, the Archbishop-elect states.

Her new post will be a challenge. “Some matters will have to be given priority, that can sometimes be hard. I will not be able to meet all expectations and good, competent collegues are important. The thing is to take oneself seriously and at the same time keep a certain distance. Humour is important, something I appreciate a lot.” Born in Germany in 1955, she has lived in Sweden since her early twenties. After studying Lutheran Theology in Tubingen, southern Germany, and then in Uppsala, Sweden, Antje Jackelén was ordained in 1980 and for several years served as a parish priest. In 1999 she earned her PhD in Theology from the University of Lund, with the doctoral thesis “Time & eternity: the question of time in church, science, and theology”. From 2001 to 2007 she held a position at the Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago, where she was Associate Professor between 2003 and 2007. She is a founding member of the International Society for Science and Religion, ISSR, and currently serves as president of the European Society for the Study of Science and Theology, ESSSAT. Publications include books in German, English and Swedish as well as numerous articles on theology and religon-and-science. Antje Jackelén is married to Heinz Jackelén, a retired priest, and her family includes both children and grandchildren. ♣ The Church of Sweden is a national church, an Evangelical Lutheran church with around seven million members. The thirteen dioceses are each led by a bishop. Female priests have served in the Church of Sweden for more than fifty years. For more information – visit www.svenskakyrkan.se/english

INTERVIEW

HÅK AN LANS

One of Sweden’s best known inventors The development of computer colour graphics and STDMA, a technology used in the transport industry, are his most important inventions. T E X T: C H R I S T I N A L I N D E R O T H - O L S O N P H O T O : C O U R T E S Y O F G P & C S Y S T E M S I N T E R N AT I O N A L A B

åkan Lans has patented several highly important inventions and his interest in interest in constructing inventions began early. As a 12 year old, he constructed a motor-driven vehicle made of old wooden crates and a discarded moped engine, then proceeded to drive the car to school. Six years later he constructed a mini-submarine that got a lot of media coverage.

“My fellow school mates cheered when I drove my car to school and suddenly I was Somebody – a great experience. I believe everyone needs to be respected for what they do. A lot of people have good ideas, what matters is to realise them.You have to make a decision and then to start to work on your idea,” says Håkan Lans. He emphasises that incentive, stamina and determination are the most important factors if you want to succeed in life.

STDMA – WORLD STANDARD TODAY

The STDMA - Self-organising Time Division Multiple Access - datalink, a technology used in the transport industry is Håkan Lans’ most important invention. Today, STDMA is a world leader in international shipping as well as in international aviation. The STDMA integrates GNSS navigation technology with different types of communication, navigation and surveillance systems. It is used in AIS, Automatic

International Seatrade Award for the most important innovation for maritime safety

STDMA ADS-B display in SAS F28 Aircraft

STDMA ADS-B display in Lufthansa B747 Aircraft

Identification System, a short range coastal tracking system and other systems. Another well known invention is the development of computer colour graphics. Since 1990, Håkan Lans, M Sc Engineering, PhD hc, has received many awards. To mention a few: in 1993, he was awarded the International Seatrade Award for the most important innovation for maritime safety and also the Gold Medal by the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA), in 2000 he was awarded the title “Swede of the Year” and in 2001 the degree PhD honoris causa by the University of Uppsala in Sweden. His company GP & C Systems International AB received “European Inventor of the Year 2007” from the

European Patent Office and the European Commission. “Awards show that you have achieved something. I have enjoyed receiving them all, but none is more important than the other”, says Håkan Lans, who also holds a multi engine pilot license. Håkan Lans has been involved in several legal disputes concerning unlicensed use of his computer colour graphics system and STDMA both in USA and in Sweden. “Some global companies find it cheaper to hire lawyers to dispute their cases in court than to pay license money. Unfortunately this happens to many succesful inventors. STDMA took thirty years to develop with the help of venture capital

and my personal gain has been none. This is a serious matter that needs to be regulated. It is important to stimulate new ideas, particularly in small nations like Sweden.” He profoundly regrets that so much of his present time is spent in handling legal disputes. As a young man, he was fortunate enough to work among highly knowledgeable and competent people at the Swedish Defence Research Institute (FOA) and the University of Stockholm for ten years in total. Now he would like to give something back, to share his knowledge and experience with students. ♣

For more information – visit www.gpc.se

“Some global companies find it cheaper to hire lawyers to dispute their cases in court than to pay license money” 27

S I G T U N A S KO L A N H U M A N I S T I S K A L Ä R O V E R K E T

T H E BOA R DI NG SC HOOL BROA DE N I NG I T S HOR I Z ONS Sigtunaskolan Humanistiska Läroverket is making changes. Earlier this year the school that King Carl Gustaf XVI attended appointed its first foreign principal, Dr Margret Benedikz, and is now increasing the number of courses it offers in English. T E X T: J O N B U S C A L L / H E N R I K P E R S S O N P H O T O : C H A R L I E B E N N E T / I A N G A V I N

“We were the first school in Sweden, together with Kungsholmen, to offer the IB Diploma Programme which is taught exclusively in English,” says Benedikz, who is originally from the UK but has worked in Sweden for over twenty years. From August 2014 year Sigtunaskolan Humanistiska Läroverket will also be offering the Natural Science Programme for upper secondary pupils in English and the Social Science Programme in both Swedish and English. “This is quite a departure for what’s been a very traditional school, but one we see as important and reflecting the needs of our students,” says Benedikz.

STUDENT DEMAND FOR ENGLISH SKILLS

Having previously worked as principal at IEGS for eight years, the international school on Södermalm, Benedikz knows full well just how much interest there is in English-language programmes in Sweden. “Students are very keen to ensure they have the best options for the future,” she adds. ”Business and education today is so incredibly international: young people recognise this. More and more want strong English skills to compete in the international workplace, study abroad and increase their options.”

This is something the school is also hearing from parents. For the second year in a row, competition for places on the IB MYP programme for pupils starting grade 7 is high with nearly 100 applicants for next year already submitted. Parents keen to secure a place for their younger children also place them in the queue for both boarding and day places. “Some have even put their children down to start at SSHL in 2017,” says Benedikz. A SCHOOL TRUE TO ITS SWEDISH ROOTS

Despite its increasing international focus and the increase in foreign student applica-

tions, SSHL remains very much a Swedish school. “We have many local day students from Sigtuna and we’re a big part of the local community. We also have Swedish boarding students whose families live and work abroad. They come to Sweden to learn more about their home country so it’s important we remain aware of our roots. We like to think of ourselves as a Swedish school with an international flavour.” The school celebrates all the typical Swedish traditions, which students and staff always enjoy. “The Lucia Christmas celebrations in December are amazing,” says Benedikz. “It takes place very early in the morning overlooking picturesque Lake Mälaren. For both our foreign and Swedish students, it’s a moment to remember.” For students from Swedish families abroad it’s very important that they have the opportunity to experience the very best of Sweden. Situated by beautiful Lake Mälaren, boarding at SSHL offers just that, with students living in modern boarding facilities in one of the most picturesque small towns in the country. As well as academic study, the school has a wide selection of free-time activities

Dr Margret Benedikz

available for students in the afternoons ranging from rowing, skiing, athletics, soccer and rugby to theatre, music, and artistic pursuits. Located, within easy distance of the capital and all its attractions yet only 20 minutes from Arlanda, Sweden’s largest international airport, Sigtuna is an attractive destination for many families looking for boarding facilities in the capital region. A SAFE AND SECURE ENVIRONMENT

As part of its commitment to providing the very best for its students, SSHL established a new Student Welfare Centre at the start

The school buildings

of the 2013-14 academic year in one of the former boarding homes, right at the heart of the school’s impressive campus. “The Student Welfare Centre caters for students with learning learning difficulties and health issues under one roof,” says Benedikz, “and its something parents and students have really appreciated.” In August 2014 the Academic Centre will open situated right at the heart of SSHL’s beautiful campus to provide additional academic support during both day and evenings. Furthermore, from next term each boarding home will have an academic tutor joining the current live-in house parents.The school

“Our boarding houses are not just academically focused, they are small, close-knit communities with a strong family feel to them. Many of our boarders become friends for life.” ensures that pupils’ study and care needs are catered for, providing a supportive environment in which to study and live. “Students have daily läxis – homework – but we wanted to introduce more support and academic guidance for our boarders to make their time at SSHL as successful as possible.” The school’s mission is to help every student develop to their absolute potential, both academically and personally. “We believe in a holistic approach to schooling,” says Benedikz. “We help our students develop into well-rounded, academically outstanding global citizens.”

A LEADING BOARDING SCHOOL

With Swedish education firmly under scrutiny since the PISA report in 2013 showed Sweden falling behind many other countries in terms of academic performance, SSHL is ideally placed to lead the way. It recently joined the Boarding School Association, (BSA), as it strives to implement best boarding praxis, and students regularly achieve some of the highest grades in Sweden. The school liaises with other international boarding schools to ensure the facilities on offer are up to similar standards and that the school is an ambitious learning environment. “We see our graduates being accepted to some of the top universities in the UK and USA and we’re very ambitious for them,” says Dr Benedikz. “Everyone here at SSHL is working to ensure the school is a safe, secure, academically challenging place to live and learn. I really believe Sigtunaskolan Humanistiska Läroverket can bring something different to what is currently on offer in Sweden.” What really makes SSHL unique though is, Dr Benedikz believes, its combination of outstanding academic support alongside a strong feeling of being at home in a really friendly environment. “Our boarding houses are not just academically focused, they are small, close-knit communities with a strong family feel to them. Many of our boarders become friends for life.” ♣

www.sshl.se

S W E D I S H C O M PA N I E S

Volvo Truck’s mighty FH16.

“The entire Volvo Group employs 115,000 people worldwide and the headquarters are located in Gothenburg, Sweden” Volvo Trucks biggest model – Volvo FH.

VO LVO T R U C KS S EC O N D L A R G E S T I N THE WORLD In the last two years, a number of new trucks with several world-first innovations have been launched. T E X T: C H R I S T I N A L I N D E R O T H - O L S O N P H O T O : © V O LV O T R U C K C O R P O R AT I O N . A L L R I G H T S R E S E R V E D

B Volvo was founded in 1927 by Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larson. Today the Volvo Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment, marine and industrial engines.Volvo Trucks is the second largest heavy duty truck brand in the world - and more than 95 per cent of of their trucks are in the heavy duty class above 16 tonnes. More than 116,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide last year. ”Global deliveries during 2013 were at an all-time high since our first truck rolled out from the factory in 1928. We were of course very pleased with the positive devel-

opments we saw during 2013 on our markets worldwide”, says Anders Vilhelmsson, Volvo Trucks’ Public Relations Manager. IMPORTANT INNOVATIONS

In the last two years, a number of new trucks with several world-first innovations have been launched. The new European truck range, which includes the biggest model - the Volvo FH - carries models such as the Volvo FM, the Volvo FMX,Volvo FE and Volvo FL. Two innovations of this range are are the Volvo Dynamic Steering which makes driving effortless and the Individual Front Suspension that improves comfort and stability. ”The VDS is showcased in The Hamster

Stunt where a hamster steers the truck and in The Epic Split with Jean-Claude Van Damme. The Epic Split very quickly became the most watched automotive commercial on YouTube ever. Our viral marketing campaign marked a shift in emphasis for Volvo Trucks marketing. It was a daring strategy, and the great outcome proved to us that our unconventional take on B2B marketing worked really well”, continues Anders Vilhelmsson. The Volvo Group’s work is based on their core values: quality, safety and environmental care. Volvo Trucks provide complete transport solutions to professional customers, offering a full range of medium to heavy duty

trucks.Volvo trucks are sold all over the world and 95 per cent of the production is located in Sweden, Belgium, Brazil and USA. The major markets are Brazil, USA, France, Great Britain, Russia and Germany. The entire Volvo Group employs 115,000 people worldwide and the headquarters are located in Gothenburg, Sweden. The CEO is Olof Persson and the Chairman is CarlHenric Svanberg – Volvo shares are listed on the OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm. The group includes five truckbrands and Volvo Trucks is the largest. Since 1999 Volvo Cars have not been part of the group. ♣ For more information – visit www.volvotrucks.com

S W E D I S H C O M PA N I E S

Swedish company Peepeople distribute the PeePoo single-use toilet bag to poor regions with sanitation problems.

M OV E R S A N D S H A K E R S

Top Swedish companies with global impact T E X T: M I C H A E L H E L A N D E R

S W E D E N H A S A LO N G history of innovation with global impact that alters our everyday lives. Notable Swedish inventions include the first fully implantable pacemaker, the adjustable wrench, TetraPak, 3-point seatbelts, and of course the zipper, to name a few. Today’s Swedish companies and the individuals who run them are determined to continue pushing boundaries and uphold the worldwide reputation of Swedish quality and design. Let us take a look at several companies with origins set in Sweden that shape our world today:

ASTRA ZENECA. In 1999, Sweden’s Astra AB merged with Britain’s Zeneca Group to form the AstraZeneca pharmaceutical giant boasting nearly 26 billion US Dollars in revenue in 2013. While AstraZeneca headquarters are situated in the United Kingdom, research and development remains squarely located in Sweden, and they employ 4,000 people at the Södertälje and Mölndal facilities. The company continues to produce market-leading pharmaceutical products in gastrointestinal, cardiac and vascular, neurological and psychiatric, and respiratory areas as well as pathological inflammation and oncology.

H&M. If you are not yet familiar with the fashion behemoth H&M, chances are you have been living under a rock. With over 2,630 stores worldwide and 116,000 employees, it is the world’s second largest clothing retailer. Hennes began offering fashionable women’s clothing at a reasonable cost in 1946, and a menswear line was introduced with the 1968 acquisition of Mauritz Widforss, the hunting apparel specialists. Thus, Hennes & Mauritz was born, now simply referred to as H&M. IKEA. Mix the initials of founder Ingvar Kamprad with the name of the farm (Elmtaryd) where he grew up, in the village of Aggunaryd, and you have all the ingredients necessary to understand the origin of the IKEA name. A young 17-year old Kamprad began a small mail order shop from his home in 1943 and 70 years later he was listed as one of the world’s richest people. The now infamous ‘flat pack’ has propelled the 28.5 billion Euro company to becoming the largest furniture retailer in the world.

ELECTROLUX.Sweden’s multinational household and professional appliance manufacturer is an instantly recognisable brand and within their industry is second in size only to Whirlpool. Formed by another union of two companies, Lux and Svenska Elektron, the company already had 400 employees by 1918. Today’s company slogan “Thinking of You” is far less controversial than the 1960s “Nothing sucks like an Electrolux.”

PEEPOOPLE. Faced with the fact that 40% of the world’s population does not have toilets and over a billion people live in slums with no opportunity for advancement in sanitation, Peepoople AB was founded in 2006 to distribute the PeePoo single-use toilet bag. The bags are made of a biodegradable material that turns toxic human faeces into valuable fertiliser for developing nations. Currently working in Kenya, Peepoople has the long-term goal of providing over 150 million people in the poorest regions around the world with daily sanitation that does not require additional investment in infrastructure.

ERICSSON. Originally a humble telegraph repair shop in 1876, Ericsson has grown to employ over 110,000 people worldwide with customers in more than 180 countries. Ericsson is a leader in communications technology and services and a strong holder of wireless technology patents with current figures hovering around 33,000 granted patents. Little did Lars Magnus Ericsson know when he began his repair shop at Drottninggatan 15 in Stockholm that it would become the 230 billion SEK telecommunications giant of today.

SKYPE. The company name derives from the words ‘sky’ and ‘peer’, and although it has gone through a series of company sales since it’s inception in 2003, it was Swede Niklas Zennström who was one-half of the founding creative duo behind Skype. The company offers free video conference software that allows Skype users to speak to each other via video for free, regardless of global location. The company, now a division of Microsoft, has repeatedly set records for simultaneous users with the latest figures at more than 50 million.

SPOTIFY. The year 2006 marked the beginning of the now globally recognised music streaming service from Spotify. Over 5 million subscribers and an additional 15 million free-stream users regularly log on to find music by artist, album, genre and more, to create their own personalised playlists that fit every mood and every party. The company, which originated in Sweden and remains under private ownership, now has it’s headquarters in London, with research and and development remaining in Sweden. WRAPP. The founding rap sheet for Wrapp is an impressive roll call of entrepreneurs that were fundamental in building successful companies like Spotify, Stardoll, Groupon and SoundCloud. They believe the process of sending a gift certificate to friends through social media should be as simple as sending a message through the same channels. And since 2011 they have been developing an app which has since been expanded to include not only social media gifting but also special rebate offers. The app is available through iTunes as well as Google Play for android users. With so many up-and-coming technological advancements and development in Sweden, it is an exciting place to be for a new generation of Swedish innovators. ♣

SWEDISH REGIONS

EXCELLENT DRINKING WATER IN GOTHENBURG Göta älv provides the Gothenburg region with drinking water purified by two waterworks. Gryaab, the regional sewage works, treats the wastewater. The residual sludge is turned into biogas, agricultural fertiliser and soil used for landscaping. T E X T: C H R I S T I N A L I N D E R O T H - O L S O N

PHOTO: PETER SVENSSON

ater is a great part of Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city. The city’s port is the largest in Scandinavia and Gothenburg itself is intersected by canals. Centuries ago, people actually obtained water from the canals where they also dumped their waste products. This caused outbreaks of cholera and other serious diseases. In the late 18th century the municipality began to pipe the city’s drinking water and since the 1960s the region has enjoyed excellent drinking water, mainly derived from the mighty river Göta älv. With the help of a tunnel system blasted into the rock, the water is transported from Lärjeholm to the city’s two waterworks, Alelyckan and Lackarebäck. On its way to the waterworks the water is kept in storage in two lakes, Stora Delsjön and Lilla Delsjön, connected by a canal.

It takes five hours to process water in Alelyckan and Lackarebäck. “The testing of Göta älv’s water is rigourous. When there’s any doubt of the quality, the access to the river is closed down. The lake Rådasjön functions as a reserve supply”, says Claes Wångsell, Head of Drinking Water Production at the municipal Department of Sustainable Waste and Water in Gothenburg. The two waterworks are of equal importance, and on a daily basis they supply the region’s half a million inhabitants with around 170,000 m³ water, or 60 million m³ water per annum. The region’s pipe system measures 1,750 kilometres. The waterworks also provide four neighbouring municipaliClaes Wångsell ties with drinking water.

Even before the purifying treatment, Göta älv’s water passes nearly all requirements - except for the contents of microbiological particles; viruses, bacteria and parasites. The waterworks’ process reduces the microbiological particles in three stages. In the mechanical stage, visible waste products are removed with the help of a coarse bar screen. In the chemical stage aluminium sulphate is added. Microorganisms and organic material then turn into lumps and fall to the bottom of the cleaning basin. The third stage is a granulated carbon filtration process. By adding calcium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide and carbon dioxide the pH value and the alkalinity is increased to prevent corrosion in the pipes. And finally the water is disinfected with a small dose of chlorine. “To further reduce microorganisms and improve the quality of the drinking water

P H O T O : F R A N K PA L M

Alelyckan Waterworks.

PHOTO: PETER SVENSSON

PHOTO: ULRIKA WAHLSTRÖM

Gryaab – part of the process of puryfing wastewater.

An Ultra Filter is under construction at Lackarebäck Waterworks.

we will now install another cleaning stage at Lackarebäck Waterworks. The project, with an estimated cost of 700 million SEK, involves the construction of an Ultra Filter where the water will be filtered through a special membrane with spaghetti-thin pipes. The Ultra Filter, all in all measuring 40,000 kilometres of “spaghetti pipes”, will be in use in 2015. In the future, we also plan to construct an Ultra Filter in Alelyckan Waterworks. Today Ale-lyckan uses UV disinfection to reduce microorganisms”, continues Claes Wångsell. To ensure a steady supply of drinking water, the capacity of each waterwork is to be increased. The goal is that one waterwork should be able to provide the whole city with water in case of major disruption. GRYAAB PURIFIES THE WASTEWATER

In the 1960s several municipalities jointly founded Gryaab, the regional sewage works of the Gothenburg region. At the same time all wastewater was removed from minor waterways by means of diverting the wastewater into a tunnel system. Today the tunnel system measures approximately 130 kilometres. Rya

Ann Mattson, Head of R&D and Quality at Gryaab in Göteborg

Wastewater Treatment Plant, WWTP, was brought into use in 1972 – a huge improvement for the marine environment. Since the start, Rya has been expanded several times in order to meet the demands of stricter regulations. Today Gryaab is owned by seven municipalities in the region – Ale, Gothenburg, Härryda, Kungälv, Lerum, Mölndal and Partille. The wastewater is purified in a three stage process involving mechanical, chemical and biological methods before being discharged into Göta älv. It passes through several specialised basins. In the process organic material, nitrogen and phosphorus are removed from the sewage water. Nitrogen and phosphorus cause eutrophication, or manure pollution. “In the first stage particles are removed, which is a fundamental part of the process. The whole purification process normally takes around 12 hours. We are constructing a Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor, MBBR, consisting of 18 basins with a total volume of 10,000 m³, to expand Gryaab’s capacity for

nitrogen reduction. The water contains more and more nitrogen, partly as a result of people consuming more meat. The new basins will be ready in 2016-17”, says Ann Mattsson, Head of R&D and Quality at Gryaab. The residual sludge is also treated at Rya WWTP. Sludge consists mainly of water and it needs to be thickened before use. The sludge is digested without oxygen for two to three weeks at 37 degrees. Biogas, formed when bacteria digests the sludge, is sold to Gothenburg Energi and used as ecological vehicle fuel. The digested sludge is then dewatered and composted and the final product is used as an agricultural fertiliser as well as soil in landscaping. “Urban planners ought to consider wastewater treatment and think of methods to even out large flows of waste water from the start when planning a city. And municipalities need a holistic approach to taking care of water in every stage of planning. It would be better to store water from heavy downfalls in a natural way – for example in brooks or temporarily on a parking lot – than to have floods in a number of basements”, says Ann Mattsson. ♣ 35

EXPLORE OUR EGYPTIAN BURIAL CHAMBER!

THE SECRET OF THE TOMB

Can you solve the tomb’s mystery? Join the Egyptian children Merit and Bes as they try to save Merit’s uncle in our audio guide for children. Once inside the tomb, study our 3D scanned mummy and discover what lies hidden beneath its wrappings.

SWEDISH REGIONS

THE MAGIC AND BEAUT Y OF GOTL AND SWEDEN’S L ARGEST ISL AND IS A VERY SPECIAL PL ACE WITH SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. T E X T: C H R I S T I N A L I N D E R O T H - O L S O N

“Gotland, resting on a limestone bedrock, has a unique nature. Along the coastline you will find the vertical rock formations, sea stacks, known as ‘raukar’ in Swedish.” 37

SWEDISH REGIONS

Visby – old part of the town.

PLACES TO VISIT Fårö – an island northeast of Gotland, 56 kilometres from Visby. The world famous film director Ingmar Bergman lived at Fårö – also the location for some of his films. Visit the Bergman Center Foundation where the annual Bergman Week is held at the end of June. Mindmapping will be one of the themes in 2014. www.bergmancenter.se/en The long sandy beach, Sudersand, on eastern Fårö was voted as one of the best of its kind in the world. Lummelunda Cave – one of the longest caves in Sweden, with beautiful dripstones and interesting fossils, is located 13 kilometers north of Visby. www.lummelundagrottan.se/ english The Bunge Museum – one of the largest open air museums in Sweden with unique buildings and farm surroundings. Make a journey back in time! www.bungemuseet.se Roma Kungsgård – an ancient

Medieval week with tournaments in early August.

meeting place located in the

G O T L A N D I S F U L L of magic with breath-

taking nature, awesome history, beaches, great golf courses, good food, handicrafs and culture. Sweden’s largest island has a very special atmosphere and a dialect that can sometimes be a little difficult to understand for visitors from the mainland. The number of medieval churches and church ruins remind us of the island’s rich historical heritage. In fact, every one of Gotland’s 92 parishes has an active medieval church. The Hanseatic town Visby is the island’s largest. The stone wall encircling the centre was erected in the Middle Ages to protect the town from enemies. It is 3.5 kilometres long with more than 50 towers. Medieval Week with tournaments in early August, is an annual event for the whole family. Visby is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The flat countryside is perfect for cycling and the island’s bicycle routes are constantly being

middle of Gotland with crafts and design from the island, Roma Glassworks, the ruins of Roma Abbey and several activities. Open daily 2 May – 31 August.

expanded. Gotland, resting on a limestone bedrock, has a unique nature. Along the coastline you will find the vertical rock formations, sea stacks, known as ”raukar” in Swedish. The best known is Hoburgsgubben, “the old man Hoburg”, located between the Longhammar area on Fårö and Folhammar on the eastern side. The climate is mild and the island has a green vegetation from early spring to late autumn. There are more than a hundred nature reserves, habitats for rare plants and animals. Two examples are Ullahu on Fårö and Brucebo north of Visby. The mild climate is also perfect for golf and Visby Golf Club at Kronholmen, 25 kilometres south of Visby, is considered one of the best golf courses in the country. www.golfgotland.se ♣

WHERE TO STAY There are plenty of hotels, pensions, B&Bs and hostels in Gotland – a few examples of hotels: Hotel Visby Börs – turn of the last century style with eight suites. www.visbybors.se Clarion Hotel Wisby – a modern first class hotel surrounded by medieval atmosphere, situated in the old part of Visby near the harbour. www.clarionwisby.se Djupvik Hotel – an intimate hotel with eight rooms, perfect for relaxing, in the idyllic fishing

For more information, visit www.gotland.com/besokare/en

village Djupvik 40 kilometres from Visby. www.djupvikhotel.com

S Y A W AL FF

30%O

www.qualityoutlet.com

S TOCK HOL M QUA L I T Y OU T L E T Stockholm might seem expensive to some tourists, but there are good options when it comes to shopping. Stockholm Quality Outlet in Barkarby, only 30 minutes from the expensive inner city stores, boasts over a hundred fashion brands with discounts ranging from 30 to 70 percent. T E X T: C H R I S T I A N V O N E S S S E N

GETTING THERE FROM STOCKHOLM: By car: E18 north towards Enköping, exit Barkarby Handelsplats S. By commuter train: From Stockholm C towards Bålsta or Kungsängen. Exit at the stations Barkarby or Jakobsberg.

SOME OF THE OUTLET STORES: Acne, Björn Borg, Filippa K, Hope, Hugo Boss, J.Lindeberg, Lexington, Marlboro Classics, Norröna, Nudie Jeans, Odd Molly, Peak Performance, Sand, Timberland, Tommy Hilfiger, Vagabond, WESC

Located in Barkarby, in an area that reminds you of a small-town main street, Stockholm Quality Outlet has since its birth in the mid-nineties become a strong shopping institution in the Stockholm region. Jessica Fredriksson is the center manager for SQO at property manager Newsec, and she is happy with the development. “We have a good mix here now with large international fashion brands such as Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger and Nike, as well as Swedish designer labels like Filippa K, Hope, Acne, Nudie and Odd Molly. Our customers know they get good quality at a decent price here.” Today, Stockholm Quality Outlet offers more than 50 fashion stores with over 100 brands. The typical customer is 35-40 years old, and people are travelling to Barkarby from all over the greater Stockholm region to shop their favorite fashion brands at great discounts. From the central station in Stockholm, it takes only half an hour to get there with commuter train. GET THE LATEST NEWS FIRST

Stockholm Quality Outlet constantly gains increased recognition in the fashion community, and events have become an important way of getting to know their premium customers better. In April there is a garden party, and in the fall there is a so-called Black Friday, famous from the US, when the stores can offer incredible discounts for one or a few hours. “We use special events to invite new visitors to come here and try us out. We know that they are usually very content and want to come back another time,” says Jessica Fredriksson. Digital communication is the most important way of finding out what’s happening at the outlet, and Stockholm Quality Outlet already has 25 000 newsletter subscriptions and 10 000 Facebook likes. Subscribing is the best way to be in the loop and receive the latest news first.

PERFECT FOR TOURISTS

When the prices usually are 30-70 percent lower than the inner city stores, the large interest is understandable. Even travel agents and tour guides regularly add Stockholm Quality Outlet as a natural stop on the Stockholm sightseeing tour, particularly for tourists interested in “the Swedish fashion wonder”. All stores are connected to Global Blue, which means the shopping is tax-free. While the traditional fashion brands are hot, the outdoor trend is hotter than ever. This development manifests itself at Stockholm Quality Outlet through strong outdoor brands like Peak Performance, Nike, Haglöfs, Norröna, Houdini, Helly Hansen, Timberland and the Norwegian brand Bergans. Others are waiting in line. The summer is usually a slow season for shopping, but that’s not the case at Barkarby. “Summer is crazy here when we have our outlet sale”, says Jessica Fredriksson. “You can make real bargains, with up to 50 percent off the outlet price. Check out our Facebook page for special offers, competitions and more info.” ♣

C U LT U R E & M O R E

Entrance hall. The sculpture was part of Artipelags inaugural exhibition “Platsens själ”.

Art

I N T H E A R C H I PE L AG O

One of Sweden’s most globally renowned business successes has been turned into a loving celebration of the Stockholm archipelago. Artipelag is the story of how Björn Jakobson unclipped his BabyBjörn baby carrier and entered into something completely different. T E X T: C H R I S T I A N V O N E S S E N

n the year 2000, BabyBjörn founder Björn Jakobson and his wife Lillemor started looking for property to build something they thought was missing in Stockholm – a place where art enthusiasts and international conferences could coexist and become inspired by the incredible nature of the Stockholm archipelago. They bought 22 hectares of land and involved an architect, but the project was stopped by the Vaxholm municipality; they had to start from scratch‚ Five years later 42

they found the right spot again, and Värmdö was more welcoming towards the project. Today, the relationship is cooler again. “I honestly don’t understand how the municipalities think,” says Björn Jakobson. “Artipelag is very positive for Stockholm, and we are often compared to Louisiana in Copenhagen. But we don’t receive any support or subventions at all. We have a tight budget and have to do everything ourselves.” THE SECOND BEST ATTRACTION

Today, the combined art hall, restaurants and conference centre have 250,000 annual

visitors, and Björn Jakobson has plans for Artipelag to become the best tourist attraction in Stockholm after the Vasa museum. The Art Box can hold up to 1,000 people seated, but hotel rooms are still non-existent in respect of the surrounding nature. Artipelag is late architect Johan Nyréns last work, and it blends perfectly with the surrounding dramatic landscape. “He said: ‘if I can adapt the architecture according to the nature, I might be of some help’. That’s quite an understatement – in my opinion there has not been a finer building in Sweden during the last 15 years”.

Julia Peirone, “More than Violet”, 2010-2012

PHOTO LENA KOLLER

Carl Boutard, “Modifierad Vokabulär” 2014 Photo: Jean-Baptiste Beranger

PHOTO: CHRISTIAN VON ESSEN

J A G Ack, “Östrasalt”, 1906. From the exhibition “No Man is an Island”.

HOT AND COLD SHOWERS

Art curator Bo Nilsson is busy preparing the summer and autumn exhibitions. He has previously worked at prestigious art museums like Charlottenburg in Bo Nilsson Denmark, Rooseum in Malmö and Liljevalchs and Moderna Museet in Stockholm. He started working with Artipelag in 2010, two years before the first exhibition “Genius Loci” (“Platsens själ”). He says he tries to work actively with “hot and cold showers”, to challenge and please, and to create dynamics and tension with the audience. “In the summer, we use hot showers,

and ‘No man is an island’ this summer examines the relation with art and the archipelago – classics like Strindberg, Liljefors, Prins Eugen, Zorn and many others more contemporary. In the autumn, we have ‘Up against the wall’, which deals with younger and more urban art forms. You should never underestimate your audience.” HAVEN FOR THE FEW

But targeting a broad audience is easier said than done – surveys reveal that up to 70 per cent of the city’s inhabitants have never even been to the Stockholm archipelago. As a comment to the low representation of working class and immigrant visitors, there will be a proper sea kiosk set up this summer, built entirely in the style of the Stockholm suburbs with the highest immigrant populations. These will serve baklava and other international specialities.

Björn Jakobsen and his wife Lillemor.

“The audience doesn’t live in the neighbourhood, so coming out here is an active choice.This makes the location a bit challenging”, says Bo Nilsson. But the most difficult part for me artistically is adapting the exhibitions according to the incredible nature we have here.The four seasons are so strong in color and contrast, so the art has to match and pick up the energy from the surroundings.” Two years after the opening, founder Björn Jakobson speaks of Artipelag much more in terms of the love for nature rather than the love for art, which probably means that he is confident with Bo Nilsson’s work. Turning 80 later this year, Björn Jakobson is still in charge of the operation, and he still can’t resist the urge to pull up weeds when he shows us the premises. Is he content with how everything has turned out? Was this experience what he expected? “Oh no, he says. This is so much better than anything I could ever dream of.” ♣ 43

C U LT U R E & M O R E

Dardel and the Parisian Avant-Garde 44

Nils Dardel in Tokyo in 1917. ÂŠRiksarkivet, Thora Dardel Hamiltons arkiv 4 ab:3. Photographer unknown.

Nils Dardel created The Dying Dandy in 1918, one of Swedenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most iconic 20th century images. This summer, you can see his unique and highly imaginative art at Moderna Museet in Stockholm. T E X T: C H R I S T I N A L I N D E R O T H - O L S O N

Crime Passionel, from 1921, is an exemple of Dardel’s macabre and highly imaginative paintings. ©Nils Dardel/BUS 2013

Nils Dardel painted The Dying Dandy in 1918. ©Nils Dardel/BUS 2013

” N I L S D A R D E L W A S a modern artist rather than a modernist, who mixed private and public matters in his art. He enjoyed creating narrative images with a certain morality, where an action was followed by its consequence – for example The Dying Dandy and Crime Passionel”, says John Peter Nilsson, Director of Moderna Museet in Malmö; curator of the show ”Nils Dardel and the Modern Age” at Moderna Museet in Stockholm. The aristocratic and sexually ambivalent Nils von Dardel (1888-1943), one of Sweden’s best known modern painters, fascinated both men and women. He cultivated an eccentric dandy image, partly to keep people at a certain distance. Unlike many Swedish artists he had a unique and very personal imagery. Throughout most of his career, he travelled between his second home in Paris and his native city Stockholm. Certain parallells are to be found between the beautiful fair Swede and the American novelist F Scott Fitzgerald. They

were both part of the international group of artists and writers in Paris after World War One. It was a chaotic time, nine million soldiers had been killed in the war. Americans invaded Paris in the 1920s and a generation of disillusioned young writers, notably Hemingway, Fitzgerald and T S Eliot, were named The Lost Generation. ”Neither Dardel nor Fitzgerald had the ambition to document some kind of truth – instead they rather wanted to be confronted with episodes from their own and other people’s lives.You can say that they depicted various moods.” Dardel took an active part in the cosmopolitan avant-garde in Paris, where he used art to convey the early 20th century jazz era and its modern attitude to all kinds of relationships. The macabre highly imaginative paintings from the 1910s and 1920s are considered his best. The images are often dramatic and colourful with mythological animals and strange symbols.

But Dardel was also a sought after portrait painter who depicted society as well as famous writers and artists. As a young artist he was influenced by Cezanne and the modern ”isms”, for example, cubism and surrealism, and later in life by the Norwegian painter Edvard Munch and the Spanish Baroque master El Greco. Since his youth he suffered from a serious heart disorder and died in his sleep in New York in 1943. Death is a frequent motif in his paintings, he was well aware of how fickle life could be. ♣

NILS DARDEL AND THE MODERN AGE 29 MAY – 14 SEPTEMBER AT MODERNA MUSEET You will find Moderna Museet at Skeppsholmen in central Stockholm. Open Tuesday-Friday 10-20, Saturday-Sunday 10-18. Phone +46 8 5202 3500. www.modernamuseet.se

Väsby Town – towards a sustainable community Väsby is the first community in Sweden that is entirely eco-certified, which means that we are particularly committed to work for a sustainable development in several aspects. We are creating a modern town with active participation from residents and business. We strive for diversity that empowers all citizens. Väsby town offers qualitative service and attractive living in the expanding Stockholm – Arlanda region.

upplandsvasby.se • 08-590 970 00

facebook.com/upplandsvasby â&#x20AC;˘ twitter.com/upplandsvasby

THE SEASON: SWEDISH TRAVEL

WET AND WILD SUMMER ADVENTURE If a wet and wild adventure is on your list for the summer holidays, you won’t have to travel far. Thrills and spills of the wet variety can be found coast-to-coast in Sweden, and they are even more fun when shared with family and friends. T E X T: M I C H A E L H E L A N D E R

I N M I D D L E S W E D E N , not far from the Norwegian border, is the small village of Torsby where you will find the company Vildermark I Värmland (Wilderness in Värmland). With a name like that you would expect nothing less than good oldfashioned adventure, and that is exactly what they deliver. Give your family a vacation they will never forget with a timber raft trip down the Klarälven river (The Clear River) – voted one of National Geographic’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” in 2013. There is one little catch, however, before you set sail with your sights on a lazy afternoon drift that is reminiscent of Huckleberry Finn – you build the timber raft yourselves! Hardcore adventurers will appreciate the 8-day trip that combines both hard work and relaxation along 100 kilometres of river wilderness. If your garage is not yet stocked with camping equipment,Vildermark i Värmland offers rentals for everything from basic tent and kitchen supplies to canoes for those days when you just need to get off the raft and have a little time to yourself. If the idea of floating down river for 8 days is not high on your bucket list, opt

for one of several float packages that begin with a single day of river adventure. They even have an all-inclusive package that offers a turnkey timber float experience. Vildermark I Värmland has been listed with the Swedish ecotourism association and actively supports local businesses. The rafting trips are steeped in the history of the logging industry along the Klaralven; ensuring that you will return home with a renewed sense of Lewis and Clark-inspired adventure, not to mention a better understanding of the region’s log driving industry that spanned several centuries. The name of our next featured adventure company is a giveaway to it’s far north location, and it offers guided river and lake canoe tours under the midnight sun. Arctic Mountain Team offers the chance to immerse yourself in the pristine nature of Sweden’s Lapland region. Far removed from the bumps and grinds of urban living, Arctic Mountain Team adventures offer a memorable experience centred in nature’s stillness and silence with packages that appeal to seasoned and amateur adventurers alike. Satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie with a white water paddle along the Pite River, one of four in northern Sweden that is still mostly untouched by modern water power plants. Alternatively

the family tour on Lake Uddjaure might be just the right amount of nature and tranquility to recharge your family before returning to the city. The search for water adventure continues, moving away from the far north to the east coast where Ocean Discovery leads some of the most unique water tours in Sweden. Beneath the surface of the Baltic Sea are some of the world’s best preserved shipwrecks, dating as far back as the 16th century. Both recreational and advanced divers will delight in underwater expeditions delivering up close looks at ship bells, telegraph machines, navigation instruments, and glimpses of cabin furniture that largely remain intact thanks to the low salinity of the sea water. Over 30 shipwrecks have been discovered in the area since 1999, and Ocean Discovery offers additional shipwreck hunting missions with hands-on use of side scan sonar for experienced divers that seek once in a lifetime experiences. Another destination on Sweden’s ecotourism map is with JoPe Fors & Fjäll in Jämtland for boogie board surfing. Designed for beginners, an equipment overview and safety guidelines are all you need before splashing full speed down the river rapids. The day trip includes a light lunch break

and culminates in a visit to the somewhat intimidating but always spectacular Rista waterfall. The ability to swim is, of course, a must. Åre is known as one of Sweden’s main ski resorts, but it is the summers in this region that load your adrenaline buzz with white water rafting tours – also available at JoPe Fors & Fjäll. Choose between big and small challenges, but either way you will be physically and mentally pressed with extremely steep and often technical rapids boasting 4-6 metre drops. Rapid swimming and surfing with the raft are also optional if you dare to exit the boat. Stay in Sweden this summer and enjoy the water. With something for everyone, wet and wild adventures available across the country are certain to create memories of a lifetime. ♣

THE SEASON

Fabian Ryd at Torö Stenstrand.

STOCKHOLM SURF VIKINGS Surfing arrived in Sweden in the 1970s, but it is only in recent years that interest in the sport has exploded. Being as surfing started in Hawaii and later introduced to California and spreading on to Australia, a common misconception is that people only surf during the summers and in the south. The matter of fact is Northerners’ surf just as much but under different weather conditions and some of the best surf spots in Scandinavia are just outside the Stockholm archipelago.

PHOTO: CAMILO BLOMQVIST

T E X T: D E R YA A K TA S

ome of the surf spots are wellknown whilst others barely on the map but most surf beaches are actually kept hidden. There is an unspoken bro-code in small surf groups and communities that if you find a great gem you keep it to yourself. The two most popular sites are Torö Stenstrand and the islands Nåttarö and Utö. At the former, Torö, there is a Swedish Championship in surfing held every year. When the waves build up over the Baltic Sea, visitors flock Torö and tourism is high. Ted Sahlström has surfed for around 10 years and competes in the Swedish Surf Championship almost every year. Anyone is free to compete but the only qualification is a membership in the Swedish Surf Association. Sahlström has surfed around the globe, everywhere from Indonesia to Australia and Hawaii, but even though the best waves he has ever surfed on were in Indonesia, he prefers surfing during the winters in Stockholm. “It’s a totally different feeling to jump in the water in minus degrees. Surfers in warmer climates cannot handle the cold, which makes us Swedes feel like tough Vikings. If I

were to surf in Stockholm it would be Torö. It’s the best place,” says Sahlström. Swedish surfers have the odds against them. Great waves are created during stormy weather, mostly during the spring and winter. Stockholm has something called on-shore waves, which means that when it is stormy, waves are formed out in the Baltic Sea, but since the Stockholm coastline is so short the wind arrives together with the waves, making surfing messy. So in order to surf great waves, timing is everything. Surfer Fabian Ryd, spends most of his days on boards since when he’s not surfing he skateboards to work at the popular skate store, Kahalani in Södermalm, as well as promoting the Swedish surf brand Nord together with his friends. Through surfing on Nord surfboards and wearing Nord clothing, Ryd and his friends, act as a Flow Team meaning that they get sponsored by the brand to represent their slogan: “Cold Water Stoke,” that ultimately captures the essence of Swedish surfing. “While surfing a few times a month you live with it all the time. There is a great charm in checking wind and surf longrange forecast’s every morning. It creates a tease and a hunger for surfing, which is why

Swede’s are so stoked when they get to ride good waves. The reason why the bro-code exists within friendship groups is because you have to be restrictive to at least have some waves for yourself. It’s tough with all the competition and just a few great waves to get by,” says Ryd. True surfers, no matter the country fall in love with the motion of the waves, but not many can handle unpredictable winds. Swedish surfers are not spoiled with waves which is why they’re always hungry for more. It’s challenging but so is surfing overall and even though Swedes have it cut out for them, it doesn’t stop them from jumping right in, whether it be minus degrees or summer. ♣

Swedish Surf Championship 2009, Ted Sahlström

Summer 2010.indd 47

19/5/11 18:53:28

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supporting you

SKERRY SKIPPING AND ISL AND HOPPING JUST OUTSIDE SWEDEN’S CAPITAL

THE SEASON

The Archipelago Experience

Sometimes the beauty, wonder and appeal of Stockholm captures the casual tourist and dissuades many from venturing away from the big city, especially in the summer months. But Stockholm’s slogan “Beauty on Water” extends to its coastline and its islands. And if you don’t have your own boat, it’s not a problem! All transportation options exist, from a single ticket to a month pass for unlimited travel. T E X T: E L I Z A B E T H D A C E Y- F O N D E L I U S

W H AT T O D O, where to stay, what to eat? Well, that is up to you. Options and opportunities very from island to island and are shaped by how much time you have and your budget. Hike marked trails, rent kayaks, bikes or just wander to the closest beach. There are museums, theatres, historical sites or the best the Archipelago has to offer…a whole lot of nothing, no noise, no stress, no worries. There are all sorts of accommodation options: camping, rentals, hostels, hotels and luxury spas. But book in advance, the season is short and while foreign tourists might not always venture so far, loads of Swedes definitely do. Eating is probably the most common pastime in such a beautiful setting. Pack a picnic, buy local or sit down to a whitelinen meal. It’s all available. FJÄDERHOLMARNA. The nearest ar-

chipelago islands are always touted as Fjäderholmarna, an easy day-trip serviced by several agencies including Waxholms Bolaget and Strömma Kanalbolaget. The picturesque cluster of islands lie just outside the Stockholm Harbour, so if time is tight, this is better than naught. Complete with 5 restaurants and double the number of handcraft shops, there is loads to do for all. Fjäderholmarna.

VAXHOLM. Vaxholm is the slightly more involved day-tripper’s option. Accessible by both boat and bus, it provides the option for the land-lubber to soak up the Stockholm Archipelago charm and its wellpreserved adorable houses. But the 1 hour, each way, boat adventure is a significant part of the experience. Why not hop aboard a ship from the 1930s, soak up the scenes while enjoying a lovely lunch. Then explore the charming community and hop another ride back to Stockholm.

Grinda is a popular island.

GUSTAVSBERG with it’s porcelain

museum is a one day trip with an old ship (1912) from Stockholm centre (Nybroviken). Food and drinks onboard. SANDHAMN. If you want to hang with

the sailing elite, or at least those who like to think they are, you head to Sandhamn. Its marina is definitely the place where size and swank matters. It’s where the party people party and sunset and sunrise blur in the tiny bubbles.You can always check-in to one of its several hotels including the Sandhamn Yacht Hotel and Sandhamns Värdshus and the Sands Hotel…and blend on land. EASY & LOW KEY. A favourite archi-

pelago destination is the laid-back beauty of Utö. Ferries regularly serve it from central Stockholm (summer months), Nynäshamn and Årsta Brygga (extended season). The island offers a diverse range of activities.You can rent a bike, paddle canoes, play tennis, go a round of miniature golf or dive into beach volleyball. Or just wander its rocky coastline armed with sunscreen and a picnic. The best view on the island is from the windmill, built in 1791.

the elements, Huvudskär itself is a mini archipelago made up of 200 smaller skerries and rocky mounts.You can treat yourself to catching a glimpse of its abundant bird life and if lucky, spying the playful seals frolicking in the sea. Only Ålndsskär has structures on it, including its simple hostel, ”Tullhuset”. Keep in mind that you will need to bring all food supplies as there are no shops. And the facilities are minimal. That means only outhouses and brackish water for washing. But if that sounds like too much to consider for a relaxing trip to the Stockholm Archipelago, you can always go luxury. DJURÖNNÄSET. Four-star indulgence,

the facility is set in the woods and as close to nature as one can be with a luxury roof over their head. It also offers nature paths and terrain courses with options to play tennis or boules and even soccer football. Food is first class and you will feel pampered amidst the wonders of nature. There is also access to canoes, boats, bikes, swimming pool and sauna.

WILDERNESS. At the outer edges of the

archipelago, you come to the wilder islands of the chain. A bit more barren, being the front line protecting the inner islands from

If you have difficulties choosing between 30,00 islands, go to www.visitskargarden.se to get some tips. ♣ 53

FILM

Mia Engberg, in Belleville Baby

PHOTO: ÅSA SANDZÉN

MIA ENGBERG’S BELLE VILLE BABY WINS THE BEST DOCUMENTARY “GULDBAGGE” Mia Engberg’s Belleville Baby won the prize for best documentary at the 2014 Swedish National Film Awards (Guldbagge). When accepting her prize, Engberg explained that her film was about a man from France who had spent time in prison in a country with enormous class conflicts and segregation. As she looked around the room at the Guldbagge ceremony, she reminded the audience of their privilege to have grown up with opportunities for education, unlike the man in her film. T E X T: M O I R A S U L L I V A N B E L LV I L L E B A BY W A K E S up the

difficulties of cross cultural relationships where one travels to their partner’s country so that he or she can to fulfill their dreams. The film style is part fiction and part reality, evoking multiple emotions. A Swedish woman is called up by a distant lover in Paris who has just spent 10 years in prison; a brutal man with a history of violence, who also possesses a softness that the woman has tried to forget since he left her. As Vincent pushes her for her memories of their time in Paris and Stockholm, more and more comes to the surface of that relationship that was part love and part codependency. It is presumably autobiographical since the voice of the woman in the film is a filmmaker with children, like Mia Engberg.There is a shot of Engberg at the beach but otherwise we see her silhouette and her footsteps in the sand. The love affair with the French man began in Belleville, a working class neighborhood in Paris with a fleet of Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese restaurants in an area that slopes up a hill. At night, you can see the Eiffel Tower and its beacon from that hill. On Saturdays there is a fantastic market 54

with excellent fish, cheese and bread. There are many bars lining rue de Belleville that are havens for young people. The title of the film is named for this Parisian “quartier” or district, and also for a black cat the couple adopted, they named “Baby”. Many of the shots are of scenery in Paris, taken from the streets and from moving metro trains, and also footage of the youth riots in in Paris taken from French television. There is a parallel story about a young woman who is taken to trial, the same age as the filmmaker. The film begins and ends with the story of Orpheus and Euridice, who was sent to the underworld by Hades. Orpheus wants to see her again but she would be turned to stone if that happens. One wonders if Mia Engberg had not gone to film school and moved back to Stockholm, with her boyfriend who couldn’t fit into the culture and left, what kind of life she would have had with a violent drug dealer. One look at her adorable children and their domestic life should confirm that she made the right choice. Her grandmother, who was in her first short film, had a dark stranger in her own past, who she carefully concealed in

her diary by crossing out his name. At the time Engberg was in France, then President Nicolas Sarkozy was criticised for his treatment of youth from the suburbs. There was a series of car bombings in Paris following the murder of a young boy by the police. She looks back nostalgically at her own country of Sweden, and at the visionary politician Olof Palme who was later assassinated. He is seen walking with roses after the annual May Day parade for the Swedish Social Democratic Party. Engberg is also seen with her father next to an SAS plane that used to be a national airline uniting Sweden, Denmark and Norway before it was privatised. Her father became downtrodden with these events and passed the torch to his daughter to create positive change. Her torch became filmmaking. Belleville Baby is a film about memory, about time, about aborted relationships, and the phantom face of love. The film is a bold debut feature that not only conjures up memories for the characters involved but spectators within the movie theatre. Mia Engberg has proven to be a strong voice in today’s Swedish film culture. ♣

SLEEPING BEAUTIES DREAMS AND COSTUMES THE RUSSIAN BALLET IN PARIS 1909 – 1929

Make the most of your visit Book a private tour in Swedish, English, French or Russian. Please contact us at info@dansmuseet.se. Why not combine the tour with a meal at Bistro Rolf de Maré? A classic French bistro with Swedish influences. Welcome!

Rolf de Maré’s Museum of Movement Drottninggatan 17, Stockholm www.dansmuseet.se

THE SWEDES

BICYCLE ADVENTURER TAKES ON THE WORLD Traditional city tourism and charter trips are slowly becoming passé. Cycling has been on the rise in Stockholm since 1990 and Sweden is on the frontline to make this a trendsetter. The thought of a vacation on two wheels may not be far off and Emil Börner is a great example of this. T E X T: D E R YA A K TA S P H O T O : E M I L B Ö R N E R

I M E T E M I L B Ö R N E R , the bicycle adventurer, on a nippy Stockholm afternoon at Scandic Malmen on Södermalm. As first glances go, his kindred spirit, bohemian blouse and samurai knot were great indicators that his nomadic adventures had rubbed off on him. I decided to delve right into the story behind this source of inspiration. After graduating at 18, Börner decided to diverge from the traditional career path and instead work to save up for travel. He had never been a great cyclist, but pondered the thought of combining the two. “I didn’t want to be a typical tourist. People, who want to travel on their own decide to dump their trolleys to get more in touch with the nature, culture and people and that’s what I wanted, something different.” In 2010, one year later, he was in a severe skiing accident while on a winter vacation. It took him three months to rehabilitate after the various fractures, inner bleedings and a broken spine. Fortunately he recovered, as a man with a mission. During the restless hours on a hospital bed, Börner had been planning a bicycle adventure he called The Big Trip. On March 12, 2011, Emil Börner and Oscar Johansson, his travel companion, headed off on an epic 11 month bicycle journey that took them across the Eurasian continent. The two met on an online travel forum two months prior to departure, but Johansson decided to tag along at the last minute. Johansson - diagnosed with Tourette’s - has a dare devilish soul, which which Börner found an admirable trait to have alongside him on the road. Their three sponsors Primus, Hilleberg and Houdini provided them with great equipment that

showed very necessary throughout the Middle East to Asia and Thailand. The Big Trip started as two young guys with dreams and visions, and amidst the hardships along the way they held on to their fighting spirit and a free state of mind and heart. All of which was documented through beautiful scenic photography and filming. “The Big Trip ultimately received enough attention to instigate the thought of making a documentary movie which is currently in development.” THE NEXT BIG TRIP

In 2013, soon after Börner’s return, his soul grew immediately restless. He took a leave of absence from his occupation as a Film Assistant to go on a minor trip to Europe, naturally on a bicycle. This was, however, not enough; a trip around the world has been Börner’s ultimate goal from the beginning, and he feels it is time to fulfil it. “The next trip is set out for October this year and has a preliminary duration of five years, I can’t wait.” What happens after this? “I wouldn’t mind revisiting some countries. Even if I, at the beginning of all this, didn’t even look twice at a bike, I now feel it’s a part of me. So no matter how many countries I visit I know I’ll bike until I’m not physically capable anymore. As for adventures, life in itself is one big adventure, as long as you stay true to your own wishes and to yourself there is always something new and beautiful to experience. Anyone can choose the adventurous path as I have done. ” ♣ 57

two universities, 34,000 students and an average age of 38.

1,156

Umeå has grown by 1,156 people a year over the last ten years.

WWW.Umea.se/naringsliV

Umeå’s it sector has expanded by around 800 people in the last seven years.

statistiCs sWeden

We aim to build an attractive city with twice as many homes in the centre.

Umeå is the fourth municipality in sweden in terms of average growth over the last five years.

, Umeå is one of the coUntry s three fastest-growing cities. Umeå mUniCipality’s master plan

BUsiness mUniCipality of the year, UC

one of the very best sporting cities in sweden. sVt

eUrostat, the eU’s statistiCal offiCe

Umeå

117,294

sundsvall

96,687

gävle

96,170

luleå

74,905

Östersund 59,485

northern sweden’s best and the country’s sixth best municipality to live in. “foKUs” magazine, 2013

population 31 dec 2012. statistiCs sWeden

Umeå. more oPPortUnities.

200,000 City planning is based on a growth target of 200,000 inhabitants by the year 2050. We aim to create a rich urban life for more residents and companies. Umeå mUniCipality’s master plan

www.umea.se

THE SWEDES

THE SWEDES AND THEIR BOATS

Ship ahoy. Summer, sailing and the Swedes The Swedish summer may be short, but by adding a boat you add value. For more than a quarter of all Swedes it’s not summer without some sort of floating vessel. T E X T: E L I Z A B E T H D A C E Y- F O N D E L I U S

wedes have long been called to the freedom that open waters offer to the master at the helm of a sea vessel. Combine a love of the outdoors that runs through the average Swedes’ veins like melted mountain snow with the warmth and glow of summer in Sweden, and you won’t be surprised by how many recreational boats the Swedish Transport Authority estimates bob about in Swedish waters. There are approximately just over 800,000 recreational boats and that number puts about 2.5 million Swedes on the water each year. Most vessels transport people on day trips – when the weather is grand there is a need to shade one’s eyes from the glare off the water. Some spend days or weeks aboard to travel to secretive fishing coves, or that perfect swimming and sunning spot, rounding off the day in a picturesque harbour with a meal and a glass of wine. Whatever the interest, boating in Sweden is a popular pastime and not a statement on status. In fact, most boat owners belong to boating clubs or associations that own and manage their own docks, boat slips and wharves. The members share the responsibilities to launch and lift boats in the spring and autumn. As a result, the annual cost to own and harbour a boat is never prohibitive. It can be as low as a few hundred kronor for a rowboat in the countryside and rarely more than several thousand kronor for a slip, even in central Stockholm. But throwing money at a boat is not unknown in Sweden, either. For some, the option of a marina is more appealing. There are no membership duties to launch or pull out other people’s boats, paint the clubhouse or fight sleep during a tour of all-night wharf patrol.

Beyond the basic costs to buy and dock a boat, there are many other costs to maintain the maritime mood. Motor boats are rather thirsty. A daytrip out on a motorboat can set the owner back a few thousand kronor in petrol. And just when you think that a sailboat might be a more economicallyfriendly option, don’t forget their glee in splashing out on boat paraphernalia, parts and other marine gizmos, gadgets or knickknacks for the enthusiastic boat owner.

“Boating in Sweden is a popular pastime not a statement on status.” Sailing in Sweden, especially around the archipelagos of Stockholm and the west coast, is regarded by some Swedes as a birthright. For many more sailboat enthusiasts it is their primary summer holiday. White sails dot the blue waters by day and bobbing hulls

in quiet island coves by night – this is the typical scene along both coasts of Sweden. By no means is boating limited to those who own. Anyone can rent for as little as one day or for as long as several weeks. A familysized sailboat will cost from 5,000 SEK for the day, up to about 25,000 SEK per week.While that sounds very pricey, remember that like any rental, all the upkeep, storage and other miscellaneous charges are the owner’s responsibility.When you hand back the vessel, you never look back. And if you want to skip all responsibility altogether, you charter a skipper, too. Just sit back and glide among the waves. Any adventurer will remind us of the Swedes’Viking heritage, a historian will call our attention to the Hanseatic age of trade in Europe, and a romantic will make our hearts swoon with tales of a Swede’s love of nature. Whichever the sort, class or budget of a boat in Sweden, it’s irrefutable that there is something inextricable about pleasure boats, Swedes and summer. ♣

GOURMET

TOMMY

IS EUROPE’S BEST CHEF

Sweden has once again proven what a dynamic and diverse food nation it is. Tommy Myllymäki, 36, won this year’s Bocuse d’Or Europe and is now aiming for the world champion title in 2015. T E X T: C H R I S T I A N V O N E S S E N P H O T O : C H A R L I E D R E V S TA M

hen Guide Michelin announced their arrival to Stockholm earlier this year, many of the foodies assumed they would award the first ever Swedish three-star restaurant. The journalists and enthusiasts attending the press conference complained about the anticlimax that occurred when this didn’t happen. But Sweden is after all a relatively young fine dining nation, and is currently a part of the Nordic cuisine trend that’s seemingly sweeping the world, with Copenhagen and Noma as the main driving engine. In Stockholm, Mathias Dahlgren at prestigious five-star Grand Hôtel is one of the strongest forces. He runs both two-star restaurant Matsalen and the more laidback sibling, Matbaren, next door. Recently, he has also opened up Matbordet – an intimate cooking session with him and 10 guests, as well as a brand new bread store. Dahlgren is also president of the Swedish Bocuse d’Or Academy, overlooking the tough training process for the most prestigious cooking competitions in the world. This year, the European event was held in Stockholm at the food fair, Gastronord, 7-8th of May, and the world championships will be held January 2015 in Lyon, France. 28 PLATES OF GOLD

Representing Sweden this year in the European championships was media-darling Tommy Myllymäki, a young and competitive, yet nonprestigious chef from Katrineholm. In five hours and thirty-five minutes, the chefs from 20 European countries must present one fish dish on 14 plates and one meat dish on 14 plates. The two jury groups consist of ten judges each, and the fish dish must consist of 50 per cent greens. It was a clever move, combing the competition with the food and wine fair, because the seats were packed with enthusiasts – each national team had their own group of fans. “The atmosphere was euphoric”, says Anna Norström, food writer and blogger for Aftonbladet and Allt om Stockholm in Sweden. “But the tension was almost excruciating during the 45 minute award ceremony. After they had announced Denmark as the runner-up, they started talking about Hungary hosting the next European championships, and everyone was

really confused – had Hungary won? Personally, I felt quite confident that Tommy would win.” Why did you think that? “He is the winning kind. His drive is comparable to elite athletes, he only aims for gold. Also, his food is like a perfect partner: innovative, intelligent and very beautiful.” What do you think this could mean for Swedish food? “I really hope that we will start taking the gastro-tourism more seriously. The country’s top chefs attract people to Sweden, and food is a large part of the travel experience of a modern traveller. Exploring a destination’s food culture is getting its history told through your own senses.” WINNING ON HOME TURF

Tommy Myllymäki said after the competition that he was uncertain of his performance, but apparently it was enough to grant him the European gold medal. And after the victory he was more enthusiastic. “The piglet was fantastic, but also quite a challenge. Today everything just seemed to go my way, and it’s fantastic to win this after so many weeks of training around the clock. On home turf as well!” Mathias Dahlgren was also happy with the result. “Tommy’s win and his fantastic food is proof that Swedish gastronomy is at extremely high levels right now.” For Tommy Myllymäki, the participation in Lyon will be extra important. Last time, in 2011, he went home with the silver medal. ♣

THE SWEDISH INGREDIENTS IN THE BOCUSE D’OR EUROPE MENU: Oysters from Grebbestad Mussels from Mollösund Saithe (Pollock) from the North Sea Young pig from Hvadhem, Gotland

THE EUROPEAN FINALISTS AT BOCUSE D’OR IN LYON, 2015: 1. Sweden, 2. Denmark, 3. Norway, 4. France 5. Finland, 6. UK, 7. Iceland, 8. Estonia, 9. Hungary 10. Germany, 11. Netherlands, 12. Switzerland

GOURMET

STRAWBERRIES The best reason to love Sweden If you’ve spent any time in Sweden during strawberry season, you’ve probably heard it before: Swedish strawberries are quite simply, the best. And if you love these fragrant delights, you’re in luck. This year’s crop is a whopping two weeks early. T E X T: PAT R I C I A B R E N N A N R I C K N E L L P H O T O : I S T O C K P H O T O. C O M S T R A W B E R R I E S A R E G R O W N in

Sweden on roughly 2,500 hectares of land (think 3,500 football fields). Some 16 million kg of strawberries are picked annually, or about 1.6 kg per person. Strawberries are not really berries, but aggregate accessory fruits. The red flesh is a large ovary and the 200 or so seeds on the outside of each berry are actually the fruit. The first garden strawberry was grown in France during the late 1700s. Earlier, cultivated wild strawberry species were commonly grown. LUSCIOUS, PLUMP AND HEALTHY

Strawberries aren’t just delicious. They’re also jam-packed with phenolic compounds such as flavonoids and ellagic acid as well as Vitamin C and folate. In fact, just eight strawberries contain more vitamin C than an orange and provide a whopping 140 per cent of our daily recommended amount of 62

the vitamin (75 mg if you were wondering). Ellagic acid has been shown to help prevent cancer and also protect the skin from UV radiation. And the redder and tastier the berry, the more the antioxidants. WHEN, WHERE AND WHAT

The Swedish strawberry season starts at the end of May and extends to October. The Honeoye variety dominates since it is particularly well suited to the Swedish climate. It thrives best during the long, light days and cool nights, which result in very sweet berries. Zephyr, Korona and the tasty Polka are also popular, though the latter is generally only available at pick-your-own strawberry farms since it does not travel well. VERY BEST BERRY

Strawberries continue to top the charts when it comes to the berries closest to Swedes’ hearts, leaving blueberries and

raspberries in the dust. Some 73 per cent of Swedes also prefer domestic to imported berries, according to a recent Swedish Berry Growers’ Association survey. Despite this, the number of imported strawberries continues to bloom, with a record 7million kg of strawberries imported last year. The association also reports that 36 per cent of Swedes want to know where their berries come from. Increasingly, strawberry producers are labelling their boxes with the name of their farm. According to Anders Hagberg, Chairman of the Swedish Strawberry Growers’ Association, the strawberry season will kick off at least two weeks earlier this year thanks to the early spring. And he reminds us that the best way to enjoy Swedish strawberries is “warm and sun-ripened, right off the plant.” We agree. But here are a few summery recipes to try. ♣

THE LOWDOWN ON STRAWBERRIES Store: Cold and intact. Do not rinse before storing. Clean: Rinse your beauties right before hulling them, not after. Hull: A strawberry huller, or jordgubbssnoppare, is de rigueur. Freeze: Strawberries freeze well, especially sliced and sweetened. Eat: Right off the plant is best, otherwise at room temperature. I M PR E S S : The Swedish word for strawberry, jordgubbe, is literally “earthman”, but gubbe actually comes from an old word for “small clump.” Smultronställe isn’t just the Swedish title of Ingmar Bergman’s classic 1957 film, Wild

SUMMERY MERINGUE CAKE WITH STR AWBERRIES AND ORANGE FILLING

Strawberries. Literally, it is a

CAKE

TOPPING

meringue over batter, smooth

“wild strawberry patch” but the

1 1/2 cups cake flour (not

1 1/2 pints strawberries, chopped

out and bake at 350°F for 30-35

meaning goes much deeper – a

self-rising)

(save 12 berries for garnish)

minutes. Let cool and remove

gem of a place with very high

1 1/2 teaspoons double-acting

1 cup heavy cream, chilled

from pans (throw out wax paper).

personal or sentimental value.

baking powder

2 tablespoons confectioners’

The cake can be made a day in

Or the secret spot your Swedish

1/4 tsp salt

sugar

advance and wrapped in plastic.

friends go to pick wild mush-

3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

rooms.

1 3/4 cups sugar

Line 3 layer cake pans with

For the filling: Whisk together

White and yellow strawberries

6 large eggs, separated

rounds of wax paper. Sift flour,

sugar, cornstarch and a pinch

are lesser-known varieties that

1 tsp vanilla

baking powder and salt. In

of salt in a saucepan. In a bowl,

lack the red pigment, which will

1/2 cup milk

another bowl, cream butter and

whisk together zest, juice and

make people with strawberry

1/2 cup sliced blanched almonds,

3/4 cup of the sugar until light and

yolks until well combined.

allergies rejoice.

finely ground

fluffy. Add yolks, beating well, and

Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.

then vanilla. Combine with dry in-

Cook 2 more minutes and allow to cool.

The strawberry plant, along with its mate the raspberry bush,

FILLING

gredients. Divide batter between

belongs to the rose family.

1/2 cup sugar

prepared pans, spreading until

3 tbsp cornstarch

smooth.

For more information about

1 tsp orange zest

Swedish strawberries and

1/2 tsp lemon zest

For the meringue: Beat egg

addresses of pick-your-own

3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange

whites with a pinch of salt until

strawberry farms, visit

juice

soft peaks form. Add remaining

barframjandet.se

2 tbsp lemon juice

sugar and beat meringue until

2 egg yolks

stiff. Fold in almonds. Spread

SURPRISING STR AWBERRY SPINACH SAL AD 6 S ERV I N GS 1 bag fresh spinach

Whisk sugar, lemon and egg.

4 cups strawberries, halved

Add oil slowly, stirring constantly.

¼ cup sugar

Arrange spinach leaves on a plate,

3 tbsp lemon juice (or more to taste)

top with strawberries and drizzle

1 egg yolk

dressing on top just before

6 tbsp vegetable oil

serving.

GOURMET

Swedish super foods A GUIDE TO THE NORDIC HEALTH TREASURES

The Mediterranean diet has been known as a great health choice for ages, but the natural “super foods” of the Nordic countries are gaining ground as the reputation of their health benefits are spreading all over the world. “The New Nordic Diet”, high on fish, vegetables and berries – preferably local and organic – is becoming more and more popular among celebrities and health advocates. T E X T: E L E O N O R A V O N E S S E N

esearch on some of the most common produce in Sweden has shown that our small country is filled with super foods that will make your body happier, healthier and even more beautiful. Here is a guide to a few of our local food stars!

HERRING, MACKEREL AND SALMON

Pickled, cured, raw or smoked – Swedes (as well as all Nordics) indulge in oily fish and we are creative in our ways of preparing and serving it. Oily fish are packed with the healthy fatty acid omega 3, which can reduce the risk of heart- and cardiovascular diseases. It’s also essential for kids in the development of their brains and eyesight. Make a breakfast sandwich with mackerel filets in tomato

sauce or eat a salad with cured salmon for lunch and you will be provided with your daily need of vitamin D, as well as a good dosage of selenium and iodine.

lesterol levels than the ones that didn’t, and and interestingly they did not gain weight. Lingonberries are also anti-inflammatory and high in fibre and antioxidants.

LINGONBERRIES

POTATOES

What are Swedish meatballs – köttbullar – without a generous portion of lingonberry jam? The bright red berries grow all around the Nordic countries and are highly popular in preserves, juices and desserts as well as sweetener in savory dishes. Besides being tasty, lingon are true super berries: recent studies made on mice at Lund University have shown that lingon can make a significant impact on your health if you are overweight. Mice that ate the berries with fat foods had far lower blood sugar and cho-

Potatoes have been the most popular staple crop in Sweden for centuries, and even though rice and pasta have gained territory, the cheap little lump is still used in indefinite ways all over the country. There are unhealthy ways to cook it, of course – peeling it and making fries or chips out of it won’t exactly maximise the nutritious benefits – but unpeeled and carefully prepared make it a great part of your diet. Potatoes are packed with fibres, vitamin B and C, calcium, iron, zinc, folate and magnesium, and a lot of the

OTHER SUPERHEALTHY SWEDISH FAVORITES: – Buckthorn – Cloudberries – Strawberries – Game meat such as moose and deer – Parsley – Apples and pears – Beetroot For more inspiration, check out www.tryswedish.com – a joint effort between VisitSweden and Business Sweden.

good stuff can be found in the skin. It only contains 0.1 per cent fat and is a complex carbohydrate that will keep you full longer. KALE, BROCCOLI AND OTHER MEMBERS OF THE BRASSICA FAMILY

Brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, pak choi and kohlrabi are also members of the family mentioned above and dear friends of the Swedes. Kale and cabbage are used in a wide variety of Swedish traditional dishes like kåldolmar, kålpudding and several Christmas favorites, but they have also recently found their way back to the trend-sensitive tables of fine dining. All the brassica family members are good for you: great antioxidants, high on vitamin C, calcium, iron, fibre and beta carotene (which turns into vitamin A when the body needs it). Better yet they contain sulforaphane, a substance that will help the body fight cancer cells and prevent it from producing new ones. The highest concentration of sulforaphane is found in broccoli, and specifically in broccoli sprouts.

BLUEBERRIES AND BLACKCURRANTS

Blueberry plants cover a large part of Sweden and have been celebrated as true super berries for a long time, but blackcurrants are gaining territory fast in the health department. They contain much more vitamin C than the blueberry, which is known for just that. Blackcurrants are also rich in vitamin K, folate and fibre. Both the dark blue berries are packed with the powerful antioxidant anthocyanin and can reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, among many other things. Anthocyanin is also beneficial for the function of your eyes. RAPESEED OIL

The bright yellow rapeseed plant fields are a beautiful part of the Swedish landscape, and the oil extracted from the flowers is now known to be healthier than olive oil. It is high in the good mono-unsaturated fats, which olive oil isn’t, and has only half the content of the not so good saturated fats. The delicious, fruity and nutty-tasting

cold-pressed rapeseed oil also contains much higher levels of the healthy fatty acids, which help reduce cholesterol levels and are essential for the immune system, brain, heart and other organs to function and develop normally. And the vitamin E content makes it great for your skin – yet another benefit with the Nordic’s favorite oil. CRISP BREAD AND WHOLEGRAIN PRODUCTS

The Swedes love their crisp bread (usually baked on rye) and are good advocates of wholegrain products in general. Several studies have shown that people who regularly eat wholegrain reduce the risk of heart- and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and possibly cancer. It helps prevent weight gain and is good for dieters since it maintain you full for long and helps keep healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Wholegrain products are also high in several healthy vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, potassium and folate. ♣ 65

SWEDISH DIARY

Are you Swedish? A S S W E D E N B E C O M E S more multicultural and a conservative, anti-immigration movement continues to grow, the definition of Swedish is under fire. Do you consider yourself Swedish? That’s the question I was asked by a Swedish friend who lives in the US. He told me it was not a “snarky comeback in response to our discussion on the publication of the Swedish princess portraits released by the Swedish Royal House of the kissing cousins, Estelle and Leonore”. In case you’re not caught up on Swedish royalty and the events surrounding their lives, Princess Madeleine – 4th in succession to the Swedish throne and the younger sister of the Crown Princess Victoria – just gave birth to a daughter, Princess Leonore. Her official name is: HRH Princess Leonore Lillian Maria, the Duchess of Gotland. Pretty swank name she got there. You might be able hear from my tone that I am not a royalist. I am an American, after all. And I am rather relieved that we got rid of that royalty hullaballoo at the nation’s founding. It is about what you do, not to whom you were born. So, I had to voice a little protest that not all of the 9 million Swedes had just “melted in a puddle” after seeing the admittedly very cute photographs. The question should have resulted in a quick and easy open & shut case. And so it seemed as I answered, “No, I consider myself American.” Everything that has shaped the values, morals, and perspective of life –all of it seeped out of the primordial ooze of the Charles River, on the banks of which I entered this world, and just upstream in Cambridge is where I grew up. I was born and bred in the bosom of Boston, (specifically Watertown as you might remember from a previous Swedish Diary entry, but it just doesn’t work with the alliteration.) But somehow the question and my answer stuck with me, festering like an untreated sore. There was a nagging feeling that the denial was inadequate or incomplete. It felt as if I needed to qualify the “no.” No just didn’t seem accurate enough. Then I found it, right there within my grasp the whole time –NJA. For the non-Swedish speakers nja is the Swedish expression for “Kinda but not really” or “Not really but kinda anyway”. Because my gut feeling wants a longer answer which, more closely resembles, “I’m not Swedish, but this is my

community and these are the people I share it with. We’re all on the same team, so I guess I am a member of the team.” Nja should be expressed slowly, contemplatively, like sounding out a 3-syllable diphthong –“Neeyaaaa-A”. No, I am American at heart with a smattering of Filipino and Hungarian heritage. But after having lived in Sweden for more than 20 years, speaking the language, married to a Swede, oodles of Swedish friends, in-laws, half-Swedish kids and living la vida loca a la Sweden, I kinda am nonetheless. Sharing the kindred spirit of living in Sweden among Swedes, aiming for the long-term success of the Swedish nation makes me some sort of Swede, whether I want it to or not. It definitely makes me qualified to represent those of us in Sweden (Swedish or otherwise) who are not melting over the images of a baby princess. Because that is what it was all about, the validity of my (negative-ish) viewpoint of the existence of Swedish royalty. It dawned on me that I wanted to assert my right to my opinion as any native-born Swede. I share an equal right and responsibility to participate in the shaping of my community because that is the basis of any democratic society. But it doesn’t have to mean that I feel that I am Swedish as a cultural identity. Because I don’t. I’m American, an American with a Swedish flair. Back to the question: Are you Swedish? Updated answer: Nja. By Elizabeth Dacey-Fondelius

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GR AND PUBL IC PHOTO SAM SYLVÉN

ROYA L ST E E L C H RO N OGRAPH –– SWEDISH T IME ME ASUREM EN T

BORÅS JäLMERS UR 033-12 10 44 ESKILSTUNA LINDEbERGS UR 016-14 48 10 GISLAVED AUGUST PETERSSON & SON 0371-100 01 GÖTEBORG JARL SANDIN 031-10 59 02 MAGNUSSONS UR 031-13 54 70 HALMSTAD MåRTENSSONS UR & GULD 035-21 54 54 HELSINGBORG CARLSSONS UR 042-21 05 80 RYDbERGS UR Ab 042-20 25 35 JÖNKÖPING ENGSTRöMS URMAkERI 036-710155 KRISTINEHAMN kLOCkMASTER kEAS UR 0550-101 05 LINKÖPING MALMbERGS UR & OPTIk 013-12 18 41 LUND APPELkvIST UR 046-211 08 13 MALMÖ URHANDEL bERNHARD HUkE 040-23 84 50 STOCKHOLM kRONS UR 08-54 51 36 50 Nk JUvELSALONG 08-762 84 55 WOHLIN URHANDEL 08-678 12 24 åkE FALk URHANDEL 08-611 37 65 SUNDBYBERG ERIkSON URHANDEL 08-28 11 34 VISBY WISbY UR & GULD 0498-21 72 00 VÄSTERÅS NYMANS UR 021-13 02 12 ÖREBRO AHLéNS UR 019-611 31 73 OSLO vINDEREN UR +47 22 14 90 88

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