JUNE 2018 ISSUE 113 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA
MARCO ILSØ: THE THOUGHTFUL VIKING DANISH CULTURE SPECIAL A SPOTLIGHT ON NORWAY’S BUZZING ART SCENE HIDDEN GEMS AND GETAWAYS IN SWEDEN
Hello! My name is Pül Ross. I design unique, exclusive homes, and I accept only ten new projects every year. This gives me and my team the necessary time required for each customer, which is essential when designing a unique villa, wouldn’t you agree? The result of every new home is personal, just like the family who lives there. www.ross.se
Making
your everyday
extra ordinary
Villa Panorama. Limited edition
Right now I’m available for new projects this summer. In the mean time, I’d love to listen to your thoughts and ideas. Visit us at www.ross.se and be inspired by a selection of our more than 300 charismatic residences. You’ll also discover many topics for conversation, our fantastic team, and your future architect.
Pål Ross, CEO, Founder & Architect SAR/MSA
AWARDED SWEDEN'S MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLA AWARDED BEST NEWBUILDING IN JÄMTLAND GOLD WINNER AT EUROPEAN PROPERTY AWARD SVANEN NORDIC ECOLABELLING LICENCE
On the island of Jeløy in the Oslo Fjord, Refsnes Gods hotel offers meeting rooms and 61 guest rooms, as well as banquet halls for up to 100 guests for weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.
Conference or party with art on canvas and damask Boasting a large selection of wine and wine tastings from their very own cellar, which even displays the original 18th century walls, Refsnes Gods has a large focus on its history. While trying to preserve its ancient features, it was not until Salbuvik took over in 1998 that they began their increased focus on art. The Restaurant Munch has 8 original artworks of Edvard Munch. In total, there are more than 400 original artworks; each room is its own gallery. When it comes to the menu at the hotel, Salbuvik maintains that it is important to her that the ingredients are as local and good as possible. “We use suppliers from the local area whenever possible, for both our Grand Menu and our conference menu, which ranges from light bites to bigger lunches or dinners,� she says. Godset 5, 1518 Moss, Norway
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+47 69 27 83 00 |
post@refsnesgods.no
| www.refsnesgods.no
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Scan Magazine | Contents
Contents COVER FEATURE 26
Marco Ilsø – The Thoughtful Viking
54
Romantic castles, peaceful mansions, awardwinning food and nature experiences – what more could you wish for during that weekend getaway when hoping to venture off the beaten track and discover Sweden’s hidden gems? We have listed options to cover everything from the perfect proposal environment to the girls-trip weekend with bubbles and views.
Since joining the cast of the global hit series Vikings, life has taken quite a few unexpected turns for the young Marco Ilsø. Scan Magazine spoke to the Danish actor about fame, the future, and keeping it real.
26 48
DESIGN 10
Punks and Boat Buffs We get the garden ready for both holiday relaxation and barbecues, and also speak to the passionate people behind a Swedish eco-punk revolution, a lowmaintenance aluminium boat brand, and a ScandiJapanese-influenced design brand.
74
Cultural and Culinary Dreams What does a Danish zero-waste diner, a Finnish theatre festival and Europe’s largest dinosaur exhibition, located in Sweden, have in common? Well, not very much, truth be told, bar the fact that we just had to tell you about them.
SPECIAL THEMES 30
Danish Culture Special From stunning classical canons at Copenhagen’s Tivoli to the Danish Riviera and war history at the Danish Castle Centre, we list some of the most fascinating and entertaining cultural experiences on offer in Denmark right now.
44
Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene If sleek design is most often associated with other Nordic nations, art and handicraft alike certainly put Norway firmly on the Scandinavian art and culture map. We spoke to some of the artists and gallery owners who are making sure that this will remain the case. Read more to find out why
58 100
Leadership Development and Executive Coaching in Denmark “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other,” John F. Kennedy supposedly said once. With executive coaching on the up and qualified managers and leaders in high demand, that sounds more true than ever. We spoke to three Norwegian companies that are paving the way in this field.
SPECIAL FEATURES 22
Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
BUSINESS 66
Re-fashion Your Business Our keynote writer, Nils Elmark, examines the need to change fast and suggests that a lack of established norms and systems is the greatest advantage of the world’s start-ups. Meanwhile, we find out, among other things, how self-care turned into an international success, as we speak to the founder of our Product of the Month, Ecooking.
CULTURE 113 Who Run the World? Girls As Tove Lo gathers her ‘bitches’ around, Karl Batterbee aka Scandipop ponders the notion that lads are being left behind, plus presents a few alternatives to the trend. As always, our culture calendar is the place to find out where to go and what to see this month and next.
Norway’s art scene is hopping.
REGULARS & COLUMNS 12 89 96 110
Fashion Diary | 14 We Love This | 78 Conferences of the Month | 84 Hotels of the Month Restaurants of the Month | 94 Beer Profile of the Month | 95 Activity of the Month Experiences of the Month | 100 Architects of the Month | 108 Artists of the Month Gallery of the Month | 112 Humour
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 7
Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note
Dear Reader, That Scandinavia does innovation well is probably known to most, but this issue’s featured subjects take that boundarypushing, ground-breaking tendency to the next level. One Finnish restaurant boasts a zero-waste concept, putting the compost bin where the guests can see it; our keynote writer poses the notion that start-ups will always be one step ahead, as established routines and processes are often little more than baggage; and our resident music writer wonders whether the women are taking over the music industry entirely. What next, Vikings taking over the world? Well, not far off, at least if you consider that this month’s cover star shot to fame very much thanks to a leading role in the global hit series Vikings, despite not having much in the way of formal training and not even being particularly keen on fame. But Dane Marco Ilsø’s easy-going approach appears to have worked, even it if takes on a very different guise on the TV screen. And in his home country, we found plenty more success in the form of architects, artists and cultural trailblazers whose determination meant that their idea took off, sometimes against all odds.
gems and romantic getaways offer everything from royal history to untouched nature and quiet lakes – in addition, of course, to a little bit of innovation in the shape of a ‘boatel’ (yes, I know – and it is just as cool as it sounds). We may be proud of all that modern simplicity the Nordics do so well – but whoever said no to the old-fashioned treat of a mini spa in an old manor with panoramic views of a shiny lake and lush woods? Not me. Here is to clever innovation that does not leave Mother Nature behind; to avant-garde art that does not frown upon cultural heritage. I wish you a very happy summer indeed, whatever way you wish to spend it.
Linnea Dunne, Editor
SCAN
But all is not lost for those who just want a little bit of oldfashioned tradition and peace and quiet: our Swedish hidden
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Since 1794, Fru Haugans Hotel has been renowned for its hospitality. The hotel and its restaurants have been owned and operated by the same family for 130 years. Beautifully situated on the banks of the Vefsna river, the hotel offers 129 rooms, has two restaurants and two bars. Outdoor tables offer great views of the river and the hotel’s spacious gardens.
Book your next stay with us! Strandgt. 39, 8656 Mosjøen - Tel: +47 75 11 41 00 - Mail: res@fruhaugans.no
www.fruhaugans.no
Scan Magazine | Design | Street Style
Nordic Humans of London Scan Magazine’s brilliant Sanna Halmekoski has once again hit the streets of London to find out what the Scandinavian fashion fanatics are wearing. Cool, sleek, and full of statements, this is a little piece of Scandiland in the United Kingdom. Text and photos by Sanna Halmekoski | www.nordichumans.com
Josefina Kohvakka Finnish law student at the University of Greenwich, @josefinakoh
Josefina Kohvakka
“My style is classic with a trendy twist. The way I dress is also a reflection of my urban lifestyle. Nice, comfortable shoes are important in a city. I like to invest in good-quality accessories such as bags and sunglasses. My skirt is from & Other Stories, my sunglasses are by Stella McCartney, my shoes are by Alexander McQueen, and the bag is by Prada.”
Rasmus á Rógvi Rasmussen Faroese/Danish chef at the Danish Embassy, @rasmusarogvi “My style is casual and classic with a touch of lumberjack. I am violently allergic to any trousers described as slim, stretch, ultra slim, skinny, or super-skinny. When I shop, I like finding good deals, and I buy more and more second-hand. My shoes are by Ecco, my jeans and shirt are by Carhartt, and the jacket is second-hand.”
Anna Jacobsen Swedish/Danish creative consultant, @weareherenow
Anna Jacobsen
10 | Issue 113 | June 2018
“My style is relaxed and influenced strongly by vintage and ‘70s films such as Annie Hall. I used to be more interested in fashion when I worked as a trend forecaster. Nowadays, I rarely shop for clothes. My shoes are by Nike, the bag is by Eduards, the dungarees are by ASOS, and the shirt is vintage.”
Rasmus á Rógvi Rasmussen
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 11
Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary
Fashion Diary… Summer is fast approaching. Time to store away all those heavy, woollen jumpers and all your warm winter clothes and instead fill the wardrobe with light fabrics and textures. Do not be afraid to play around with different patterns and colours by having fun, mixing and matching – we show you how! By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos
With blue tinted lenses in your sunglasses, not only will you look the part, but the colour is also said to have a calming effect, which is most likely just what you need this summer. We love these classic polarised ones from Selected Homme. Selected Homme, sunglasses, £18 www.selected.com
This subtle, modern printed T-shirt will freshen up your summer wardrobe. With a comfortable shape and slim fit for a sharp look, it adds a trendy and casual Nordic touch to your attire. Selected Homme printed t-shirt, £18 www.selected.com
On hot days, this Miyagi short sleeve pyjama-like shirt from Danish brand nn07 will keep you feeling cool. With an all-over green leafy print, it will be an essential item in your wardrobe. The shirt goes well with the moss green shorts, both summer items that every man needs. Nn07 ‘Miyagi 5017’ shirt, approx £104 Nn07 ‘Crown’ shorts, approx £86 www.nn07.com
12 | Issue 113 | June 2018
How fun are these Acne Studios colourblocked trainers? They combine mixed materials, patterns and colours, a quirky and unique detail that will spice up your style. Wear them this season to stand out from the crowd. Acne Studios ‘gum fantasy’ colourblocked trainers, £310 www.acnestudios.com
Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary
The elegant Tennessee kimono is cut in 100 per cent sensuous viscose twill. A coveted style for day and night, and great for throwing over a summer dress. It has multiple styling options as the belt can be tied in the front or in the back depending on what works best for your outfit. Rodebjer Tennessee twill kimono, approx £209 www.rodebjer.com
Even if you go light in texture, there is no need to shy away from darker colours. This long and fluttering dress from Custommade is a great choice for a casual outfit during the weekend or for a spontaneous night out. If you prefer a lighter colour, it is also available in white. Custommade ‘Malin’ dress, £195 www.custommade.dk
Open sandal heel mules can be elegantly dressed up or down for any occasion. Stay chic and stylish with this blue, striped statement pair. The large bow on the top adds a fun detail and gives the shoes a summery vibe. Gestuz ‘Leigh’ mules shoes, approx £174 www.gestuz.com
We love these cute and airy trousers from mbyM in a beautiful colour combination and decorated with feminine ruffle details at the waist. The colour combination makes them perfect for both the everyday and parties, and the soft material makes them very comfortable too. For a trendy and laid-back look, style with a pretty blouse and white trainers. mbyM ‘Cali Vernazza’ trousers, approx £78 www.mbym-shop.com
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 13
Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This
We love this… Time to update your garden, terrace or balcony for summer, to be ready to enjoy outdoor living in style. Whether that means a barbecue party with family and friends or relaxing in the sun, here are a few items to get you started. By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos
The Renoir swing chair by Sika-Design is a beautiful swing chair for outdoor use. It comes with a cushion that makes outdoor relaxation and chilling in the sun even more comfortable. Hang the chair on the balcony, terrace or a strong branch of a tree. The material used is maintenance free and can withstand all weather conditions. Sika-Design Renoir swing chair, £888 www.finnishdesignshop.com
If you are planning a barbecue party, this table grill from Eva Solo is just perfect. Invite your guests to cook their own food at the table or in the park. This innovative grill is made of fireproof porcelain with a practical handle that makes it easy to carry around. Eva Solo table grill, approx £220 www.evasolo.com
If you do not have any terrace or garden space, why not create an indoor garden with this beautiful, modern and characterful Riippu shelf? The design is based on a hanging structure with ceramic pots, making it possible to place the shelf in front of a window or on a wall, as well as in an open space. Hakola ‘Riippu’ shelf, £231 www.finnishdesignshop.com
The new Picnic set from Skagerak is great if you have limited space. By moving the legs of the table towards the middle, you can easily fold down both halves of the table. This makes it convenient to have standing on your balcony without taking up too much space, or to bring along for picnics. Skagerak ‘Picnic’ set, 1 table and 4 stools, £1,299 www.skandium.com
With the motto ‘for glamorous people with dirty nails’, Swedish brand Garden Glory creates exclusive garden accessories with style. If you are bored of plain water hoses, then this Mr. Grey kit might be for you. The grey combination brings subtle sophistication, calm and chic, and the reindeer-shaped hose rack is both decorative and functional. Garden Glory ‘Mr. Grey’ kit, approx £436 www.gardenglory.com
14 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Alukin
The Alukin SCR 950 is a larger aluminium weekend boat that takes everything that bit further in terms of interiors and comfort, including a separate loo and an exclusive textile material.
Life at sea
– simpler, safer, and perfectly sustainable Alukin combines a passion for boats and the archipelago with genuine engineering expertise and a keen interest in their customers’ needs and desires. Now they have joined forces with Nimbus Boats to make a simple, sustainable life at sea a reality for even more boat lovers – beyond the Nordics too.
get it ready for the spring, and our welldesigned aluminium hulls give fantastic driving characteristics at all speeds.”
By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Alukin
The characteristics of Alukin’s boats make them attractive for a number of different types of boat lovers. Active fans of the archipelago get quality and sustainability combined, and the hassle-free nature of the aluminium design makes Alukin the perfect choice for anyone who wants to own a boat without having to spend hours on end on maintenance. “Many of our customers have a holiday home in the archipelago and need to be able to nip to and from the mainland quickly and easily,” Maria explains. “Others live and work on the islands, and then there are island-based businesses
Between them, the couple Maria and Peter Nikula have a wealth of experience – her from marketing and business development and him as a boat designer and engineer. When they set out to start their own business, the choice seemed obvious. “We simply took our skills and experience and applied them to our shared passion for boats and the archipelago,” says Maria. “The first boats we made were boats that would suit our lifestyle.” And the name? “We took our surname and flipped it!” 16 | Issue 113 | June 2018
While the boat enthusiasts found inspiration in their own needs and desires, their range of boats was developed to suit professionals who use their boats every day and often in extreme weather conditions. That Peter knew more than a thing or two about aluminium was fortunate to say the least. “It’s amazingly sustainable and completely recyclable, which is of course great for the environment and our waters. But aluminium has many advantages: it doesn’t require any maintenance to
Boats for work and leisure
Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Alukin
in need of a means of transportation for materials, people and machinery.” Alukin designs and manufactures everything from open boats such as bowriders and sport fishing boats to different types of cabin boats, in addition to the ‘Work’ series, boasting five different boats with bow ramps to make it easier to bring along machines, quad bikes and other awkwardly shaped or heavy items. All boats are made in Roslagen, Sweden.
A receptive approach Whatever the model, every Alukin boat comes with a number of customisation options. “You might want to adapt the interior or the placement of the thwarts or storage compartments. We’ve also created a number of tailored designs for different professional practices and hobbies such as diving and fishing,” says Maria. “This is key when it comes to ac-
cessibility as well: if, for example, you’re in a wheelchair, you’ll need a wider door, collapsible thresholds and space for the wheelchair itself.” This is exactly what led to the creation of the latest addition to the Alukin boat family: the Alukin SCR 950, a larger aluminium weekend boat developed on request of a customer keen on a more spacious version of the existing Alukin SCR 850. “No problem,” was Peter’s answer when asked, and the result was a boat that takes everything that bit further in terms of interiors and comfort, including a separate loo and an exclusive textile material that helps manage noise levels. “Unbelievable receptivity and interest in making the boat as good as possible for the client, all while advising me based on their expertise,” was the customer’s praise. “Few suppliers can strike this balance, but Alukin does it very well.”
This year brought more news, also on an organisational level, as Alukin joined forces with Nimbus Boats in order to improve accessibility for boat lovers across Sweden and beyond. With impressive growth of 30 per cent over the past few years and a growing interest also throughout the rest of Europe, this seems like a wise move for Alukin and certainly good news for those considering buying a boat. “It means that buying a boat is easier – and we can offer test runs in more locations,” says Maria. “It feels great. Nimbus is Scandinavia’s leading boat manufacturer, and we share a passion for boats, technology, construction and design, which makes for a very bright future.”
Web: www.alukin.se Facebook: alukinboats
Top left: All Alukin aluminium boats are manufactured in Roslagen, and proudly labelled as such, but this year, the company joined forces with the industry leader Nimbus Boats in order to make a simple, sustainable boat life more readily available for a wider audience. Below left: With a shared passion for boats and the archipelago and experience of everything from business development to engineering and boat design, Maria and Peter Nikula founded Alukin.
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 17
Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Deadwood
New jackets with vintage soul. Photo: Angelica Elliot
Fashion with no expiry date By turning something old and unwanted into something new and beautiful, Deadwood crafts recycled leather into timeless leather jackets. “Everything started with our love for vintage and the beauty of mixing new with old,” says Felix von Bahder, cofounder of Deadwood. “Our jackets have all the advantages of new garments, such as great fit, while at the same time coming with ten years of love that can only be found in vintage clothes.” By Kristine Olofsson
Together with Carl Ollson, the other founding partner of Deadwood, von Bahder was running a second-hand shop when the idea of recycling leather sprung to life. After working every day in an environment where the fusion of vintage and new products was constantly present, the duo came up with the Deadwood concept. “There is something magical about the transformation that takes place when two worn-out leather jackets become a 18 | Issue 113 | June 2018
brand-new jacket. The fit is new, but the leather has that soft, worn touch that you only get with time,” says von Bahder.
Environmentally friendly punk Even if the love of vintage has always been the driving force behind Deadwood, the environmental benefits are undeniable. “After doing this for five years, I’ve come to fully understand the environmental advantages that come from work-
ing with second-hand items,” von Bahder explains. “When using recycled leather, you are avoiding a range of harmful factors. We source our material from charity organisations as well as second-hand markets. This way of working is better for everyone involved – the environment, the people, and the animals of course. You get all the advantages of a new jacket with the perfect size, along with the vintage soul and the environmental benefits. This is one of the main things that drives us: to make the clothing industry a bit better. Without this factor, work would be a lot less enjoyable.”
Bringing out the inner rebel One could say that Deadwood offers the best of two worlds, combined in a leather jacket. “The vision is to stay as far away
Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Deadwood
from fast fashion as possible,” says von Bahder. “There is a rebel string in the Deadwood DNA that is contra the establishment, and we want to work with sustainability in all of our lines – not just from an environmental aspect, but also from a style point of view.” Stylish and fresh are two words that explain Deadwood’s collection very well. The designs are classic while the concept is unique. “Here at Deadwood, we talk about a sustainable punk lifestyle and bringing a punk mentality to the clothing industry. For us, this means a different way of doing things and breaking free from set rules. We want to bring this concept to the crowds and make it accessible for everyone,” von Bahder explains. This rebel string in the brand’s DNA has rubbed off on the clothes, and perhaps the people wearing them as well. “Nothing warms my heart more than seeing someone with a collared shirt and tie or a dress with a Deadwood leather jacket on top. For us, this is a way of bringing out that inner rebel; the jackets become a small statement of rebellion,” von Bahder smiles.
Timeless style When seeking inspiration, banks of images from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s music scene, old films and style icons serve as sources. “We look back at old items before creating an updated version of a classic concept. For us, it is the idea behind the craft of the garment that is pioneering, rather than the design itself,” von Bahder explains. While leather products are the bread and butter at Deadwood, the brand is constantly exploring new routes. “We always have new things going on, mostly since we can’t control our creativity,” von Bahder beams. Apart from the leather items, other products are available, including denim clothes and T-shirts made from both recycled and organic cotton. “We are adding small, environmentally friendly tweaks to everything we do, but our mantra has always been the same: don’t do something if you aren’t able to do it well – and this is something we live by,” von Bahder asserts.
A brand on a mission After more than five years as a brand, the Deadwood products are available online
as well as in physical shops in a dozen countries. With its intriguing concept, timeless design and affordable prices, the brand’s products are very popular not only in European countries such as Sweden and Germany, but also in North America and Australia. “We want to bring our products to the masses and spread our idea of the punk mentality,” says von Bahder. Deadwood is a brand on a mission, and one of the future visions is to work as closely as possible with the fans and consumers. “Imagine turning in your mum’s old jacket and getting a personalised, brand-new leather jacket back, with all the old characteristics but a fit perfect for you,” von Bahder enthuses. “To have a dynamic relationship with our consumers and supplying products they love – that is where I see us in the future.” Flagship Store: Bergsunds Strand 32, 117 38 Stockholm
Web: www.deadwood.se Instagram: @deadwood Facebook: DEADWOODSTOCKHOLM
Left and middle: Deadwood’s entire range is available in the online store. Photo: Joakim Eklöf. Right: Founders Felix and Carl with Carl’s brother Johan in the middle. Photo: Erik by Erik
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 19
Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Lindform
Photo: André Lindholm
Inspired by Nordic nature
– organic tones and simple forms “My vision is that the design, models and colours I choose will provide harmony to a room but also act as an interesting eye-catcher,” says Marita Lindholm, founder of design brand Lindform.
scribes as simple lines and shapes in natural colours. “I will be very happy if my designs last for several generations,” says the founder.
By Sara Wenkel | Photos: Lindform
In 2006, Marita Lindholm ended her career in IT and project management and set out to devote more time to her big passion: colours and design. Lindform started on a small scale in 2007 and has since grown into a brand synonymous with high quality and Scandinavian design. 20 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Scandinavian design influenced by Japanese expression Today, the interior brand Lindform’s product range mainly consists of exquisitely handcrafted vases. The functional and beautiful vases have a typically Scandinavian feel, which Lindholm de-
Lindform’s design is also influenced by the Japanese expression, which is in many ways similar to the Scandinavian one in terms of choosing colours that are naturally found in nature, as well as the simple lines and shapes. “Our collections of small vases are very popular. I often hear about customers who collect them,”
Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Lindform
says Lindholm happily. Yet today, her main source of inspiration is Scandinavian nature – the colours, the shapes and the simplicity.
Portuguese collaboration Lindform’s collections are available in shops in over 15 countries around the world. They are mainly stocked at various design and lifestyle shops, but hotels and restaurants are also big fans of Lindform’s products. Today, most of the production takes place in Thailand, where Lindform collaborates with a family-run business. This year, the interior brand has also started a new partnership with a ceramics company in
Portugal. “This will give us opportunities to use other types of glaze and manufacturing methods, which feels very exciting,” says Lindholm. The first collection will be available this autumn, and the products will be wrapped in gift boxes using recycled paper. Luckily for anyone who does not live close to a Lindform retailer, all products are now available online in the company’s brandnew web shop. “We are very pleased to be able to reach out to far more customers this way,” Lindholm concludes. Web: www.lindform.se Web shop: www.lindform-home.se/en
Marita Lindholm.
Photo: André Lindholm
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 21
Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Restaurant Nolla
Beans and crudo.
Restaurant founders Carlos Henriques, Albert Franch Sunyer and Luka Balac.
Zero-waste dining Imagine a restaurant where all the food on your plate has been carefully thought of, and zero waste was produced while preparing it. Restaurant Nolla in Helsinki serves food with a Mediterranean twist, made from the best, local and organic produce – and is set to revolutionise the restaurant industry. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Nikola Tomevski
“We wanted to rethink the whole restaurant industry and focus on reducing waste. On the first day we experimented in the kitchen, we were able to reduce our kitchen’s waste by 80 per cent. If we were able to do that in just one day, what could we do if we really applied ourselves?” recalls Carlos Henriques, founder and co-owner at Restaurant Nolla – which means zero in Finnish. After over two years of research, Restaurant Nolla, the first zero-waste restaurant in the Nordics, opened in February 2018 – and Henriques and his fellow co-owners, Albert Franch Sunyer and Luka Balac, have not looked back since.
Saying no to single-use packaging In order to fulfil its zero-waste ideology, the restaurant does not allow any singleuse packaging, all food scraps are composted, and the restaurant works directly 22 | Issue 113 | June 2018
with local suppliers and producers. “We’ve had to send back items that weren’t in reusable packaging on a number of occasions. As a result, many suppliers have taken it upon themselves to change their packaging. For example, our coffee supplier has developed a special reusable bucket, and all their coffee is now delivered like that,” Henriques explains. Usually, composts and waste bins are hidden at the back of restaurants, but at Nolla, the compost machine is visible from the dining room, and the kitchen does not have any bins. Nolla’s napkins are made from recycled plastic bottles, and water glasses, made from glass water bottles, have previously been in use at the Finnish Presidential palace. There are no menus at Restaurant Nolla, because they too would create waste – and besides, the menu changes daily, based
on whatever is available on the day. “We ask our diners whether they want a three- or five-course meal, and whether there are any foods they don’t like – and then we prepare their meal based on that information,” says Henriques. To him, a zero-waste restaurant is a no-brainer: it is environmentally sustainable, and also profitable for companies. “We want to spread the word – educate, inspire, cooperate, and have some fun,” he says. “We want to show that tasty, inventive food and sustainability can go hand in hand.”
Usually composts and waste bins are hidden at the back of restaurants, but at Nolla, the compost machine is visible from the dining room. Photo: Juho Vuohelainen
Web: www.restaurantnolla.com
Scan Magazine | Culture Feature | Tampere Theatre Festival
50 years of having a finger on the pulse Every August, the Finnish city of Tampere becomes the country’s theatre capital as local and international performing arts troupes take over the city’s stages and squares. Tampere Theatre Festival does not shy away from challenging its audience. By Hanna Heiskanen | Photos: Tampere Theatre Festival
Brimming with pride, executive director Hanna Rosendahl talks about the spirit of unity and joy that characterises the event. “The festival is just the right size for performers and audience members alike to come together. It’s the Tampere ‘hype’ that makes people return year after year.” And return they do – the festival celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, making it one of the oldest performing arts events in northern Europe. The main programme, however, is a far cry from ever being classed as long in the tooth. Hand-picked by artistic directors Hilkka-Liisa Iivanainen, Miko Jaakkola and Aleksis Meaney, some of today’s most engaging theatre groups from Finland, Hungary, France, Italy, Austria and the Netherlands tackle themes including the #MeToo movement, love, power, our re-
lationship with nature, and much more over 20 performances. Some of Rosendahl’s personal highlights include Recirquel Company Budapest’s Paris de Nuit, which whizzes together contemporary circus and live music into a heady show worthy of the quinquagenarian, and the French Night of the Moles, featuring an all-mole cast — with no speaking roles, language skills are no issue. “Keep an eye out for exciting young Finnish theatre artists whose performances are subtitled in English,” says Rosendahl. “Whichever show you choose, be prepared to laugh and cry – and to take a stand.” Tampere Theatre Festival takes place 6-12 August.
The Paris of the 1930s comes to life in Recirquel Company Budapest’s show. Photo: Attila Nagy
Set in Wall Street, I Would Prefer Not To is based on a novel by Herman Melville. Photo: Cata Portin
Web: www.teatterikesa.fi/en/ Facebook: tamperetheatrefestival Twitter: @teatterikesa
Scandinavian simplicity Designed and handcrafted in Norway
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T-Rex, Yangchuanosaurus, T-Rex and, in the background, Spinosaurus.
Be amazed at Europe’s largest dinosaur exhibition Being surrounded by life-sized dinosaurs is, for many, a thrilling fantasy. At A World of Dinosaurs, the fantasy becomes reality. “Even though it’s not our intention to frighten people, we can hear shrieks from kids and adults alike. Our ‘live’ dinosaurs are very realistic, so a lot of people jump when they move,” says Roland Wiberg, owner of A World of Dinosaurs. “But it’s really rewarding to see all the big grins when our guests leave.” By Sara Wenkel | Photos: A World of Dinosaurs
You might have visited one of the great natural history museums – and you might have noticed the special attention people pay to the dinosaur displays. If so, you can probably imagine the fantastic experience to be had at A World of Dinosaurs, which is entirely dedicated to the great extinct animal. It is Europe’s largest dinosaur exhibition, and people from all over the world come here to be amazed by the fascinating creatures that first appeared on our planet some 240 million years ago. 24 | Issue 113 | June 2018
“We have had visitors from at least 88 different countries. Many go to Sweden solely for the purpose of visiting us, but of course we are also part of many families’ extended itineraries as we are located in a great holiday area, close to Kalmar in Sweden,” Wiberg explains.
the biggest objects. At the moment, we have 3,500 square metres filled with dinosaurs. We will need to add an additional extension at our next expansion,” he says. And the expansion is constant, as the exhibition brings in new, exciting objects every year – 30 new dinosaurs since last season alone.
Fossils, skeletons and ‘live’ dinosaurs
3,500 square metres of dinosaurs
The exhibition is divided into two areas. First, you enter the fossil chamber, where you can familiarise yourself with the time period when the first dinosaurs originated. Here, visitors see fossils and skeletons. The mighty sauropods, for example, measure 22 metres long and eight metres high.
What differentiates A World of Dinosaurs from similar places is the size of the exhibition hall, believes Wiberg. “We have the height and the width to bring in even
“One of my favourite objects in this hall is the gigantic hand and lower arm of a Mamenchisaurus, which is believed to
Scan Magazine | Culture Feature | A World of Dinosaurs
have been 40 metres long, 15 metres high and weighing around 80 to 100 tonnes. It is regarded as one of the three largest dinosaurs in the world. Try to imagine a walking dinosaur the weight of two buses at each foot,” Wiberg enthuses. The other area consists of three large halls and is all about imagination coming to life. This is where you get to experience the ‘live’ dinosaurs. “We collaborate with incredible people to create a technological solution where we are able to recreate the appearance of dinosaurs. Our dinosaurs have moving chests to make it look like they are breathing, and they can wink, open their mouths and stick their tongue out, wiggle their tails and much more,” says Wiberg. To some, it can be a little bit frightening for
The leg and foot of a Mamenchisaurus.
a moment, but it is always those same children who end up wanting to buy the scary souvenirs in the gift shop afterwards, Wiberg assures.
Appreciated by all generations A World of Dinosaurs is not only for families with children, even though the exhibition regularly entertains families of three generations. Many adults come on their own as well, and it truly is a fascinating experience for everyone. “It doesn’t matter how many books you’ve read or films you’ve watched about dinosaurs – seeing them life-sized is something completely different. Adults are generally pretty good at estimating how long 20 metres is, but standing next to a 20-metre-long dinosaur is to most people an eye-opening experience,” Wiberg explains.
“We have numerous parents every day taking pictures of their smiling kids, but what I try to keep as a mental image is the sight of all the happy parents behind the cameras,” he ends. A World of Dinosaurs: Open until 7 October. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm during the summer months. There is a nice picnic area where visitors bring their own food and drinks. It is located close to Kalmar and Öland, which offer great choices for accommodation and plenty of other summer activities.
Web: www.aworldofdinosaurs.com
Stegosaurus and Baryonyx.
Two Dilophosaurus and Huayanglong.
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Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Marco Ilsø
26 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Marco Ilsø
Marco Ilsø
– the thoughtful Viking Threesomes, treachery, and gut-turning violence – starring in the global hit series Vikings, Marco Ilsø has, as the Viking Hvitserk, done it all. However, in the real world, the young mellow Dane is all but unscrupulous. Talking to Scan Magazine, he reveals that he struggles to say no to fans and was terrified on his first day on the set of Vikings. By Signe Hansen | Photos: HBO Nordic
There has been a lot to adapt to for Ilsø since he took on the role as one of the five Viking brothers in Michael Hirst’s historic hit series Vikings. Being met with cries of “yeah, slaughter those Saxons!” when grocery shopping off set in Ireland is one of them. Not being able to tell friends and family where he went for the first three months of filming was another. “There’s a lot of secrecy around the series, so when I first got the role I wasn’t allowed to tell anyone. As I was going to Ireland to film for three months, I had to tell everyone that I was just taking a bit of time off to go travelling – I think a lot of people thought that was a bit weird,” says the 23-year-old and laughs. Sat in a hotel room in Dublin, the laughter immediately washes away any resemblance to Hvitserk, Ilsø’s inscrutable Viking alter ego. The character is nonetheless what most people recognise Ilsø for and, one must presume, why he is
regularly being encouraged to “slaughter those Saxons”.
Becoming a Viking Getting his first acting job as the lead character in a Danish TV series at age 14, Ilsø was initially not too impressed with the life of an actor. “Having to go to school during the day and then film afterwards, it was a bit much, and at that age, I actually wasn’t too keen on it,” he admits. However, the directors liked Ilsø and his self-taught acting style, which, he says himself, is not really acting but just “saying the sentences the way he would in real life”. In the following years, he appeared in several roles in Danish film and TV, but he readily admits that stepping onto the set of Vikings was the biggest and most nerve-rattling moment of his career. “I was terrified! More terrified than I’ve ever been before,” he says. When asked if he had any specific tools he used to overIssue 113 | June 2018 | 27
Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Marco Ilsø
before flying out to visit his brother, a professional football player, in Malaysia. One thing he is looking forward to is being around people who, like him, are not too bothered about fame. “Luckily, my friends back home and my girlfriend don’t really care about those kinds of things,” he says. “In general, Danes are a little more reserved. People might recognise me and take a picture but will generally just leave me alone, whereas here, when I go out, I’m often met by shouts like, “yeah, slaughter those Saxons!”
A glorious death While Vikings has been confirmed for
Playing the inscrutable Viking Hvitserk in the hit-series Vikings, Danish Marco Ilsø has been catapulted to global fame.
come the initial nervousness, his reply is, however, more in the spirit of his Viking alter ego. “No, I don’t really have any techniques as such, I just throw myself into it and get on with it,” he shrugs. Despite being initially intimidated by the scale of the project, Ilsø quickly went on to feel right at home in the company of the world-famous Vikings stars, including Katehryn Winnick (Lagertha), Travis Rimmel (Ragnar) and Clive Standen (Rollo). “The best thing about being on the show is definitely the people; we have a lot of fun. Everyone hangs out together – actors and production staff alike. I think that’s very nice; it’s like one big family,” says the young Dane.
A wildcard A bit of a wildcard among the Viking brothers, Ilsø’s character Hvitserk has a strained relationship with his brothers, especially the sociopathic Ivar the Boneless, played by Dane Alexander Høgh Andersen. However, in real life Andersen and Ilsø are close friends and actually went to the very first audition for the series together. “We were at a music festival together when we both got called in to audition in Sweden, so we drove up there together,” explains Ilsø. “I was super excited 28 | Issue 113 | June 2018
– normally I’m a fairly good driver, but to be honest, I’m not so sure about that trip!” The two friends both auditioned for a number of different roles and it was not until several months and auditions later that they found out they had, between them, landed two of the series’ biggest roles. The news of which, says Ilsø, left him “a bit out of it”.
Keeping it real Filming for three months of full-on days with a huge crew and set, working on Vikings is, says Ilsø, different than anything he has ever done before. He admits that being away from friends, family and his girlfriend has, at times, left him struggling a bit and, in that respect, his newfound fame is no real comfort. “I do get a lot of attention from all kinds of people, but I don’t really care about that kind of thing,” he says. “Of course, it’s great to be part of something like this, but I can also see how it might become a bit too much. If someone came to my door every day asking for a selfie with me, I’d probably just do it. I want to make people happy, but I might have to work on that bit.” As filming is due to wrap up soon, Ilsø will be heading back home to Denmark
another season and the series is still hugely popular, the brutality of the plot also means that there are no guarantees for the actors in terms of their character’s life span. At the end of the first half of season five, Hvitserk was indeed very close to losing his life. But, while Ilsø does not know – or will not reveal – his character’s fate, it is not something that keeps him up at night. “No, I don’t worry about it. I just worry about doing as well as I can with the stuff that they give me. So if Hvitserk was to die, I would just want to make it an amazing death,” he says. In September 2018, Ilsø will also be back on Danish TV screens in the drama series Kriger (Warrior). A modern-day drama show about war veterans, Kriger and Ilsø’s role explore some serious stories and issues. This is no coincidence as Ilsø is, he says, guided by the potentials of the role and story rather than its size or exposure. So, while he no longer has any doubts that his future lies in acting, he is not necessarily seeking the most star-studded path. “I think if you just take on everything that comes your way, you might end up being really wellknown, but that’s not my goal. I want to be the best actor I can be, not necessarily the most famous,” he says. Marco Ilsø will be back in the second half of Vikings season five, which is expected to air this summer.
Kriger will air on Danish TV2 in September 2018.
Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Marco Ilsø
Photo: HEIN Photography
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RE U lT LT cia U e C IAL Sp H IS PEC N DA S m he
Løgstør. Photo: Niclas Jessen
The perfect summer trip for culture vultures Most people have heard about Tivoli, the world’s second-oldest amusement park, located right in the heart of Copenhagen. Not everyone, however, knows that you can now experience top-class live music while there, including everything from rock concerts to world-renowned classical music performances. Photos: Visit Denmark
The same can be said for quite a lot of Denmark’s buzzing culture offering. Did you know, for example, that you can experience the magical phenomenon of Black Sun – the gathering of thousands of starlings in the sky, blackening out the sun – at the Wadden Sea National Park? That is alongside stunning, white sandy beaches, one of which is Europe’s widest. 30 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Did you know that, in Denmark, you can also find Scandinavia’s best-preserved medieval tower, a World War I-era fortress and an atomic bomb? Indeed, all are on display at the Danish Castle Centre. Moreover, Denmark boasts an impressive amount of charming quality art galleries and museums, where you can explore the work of artists new and es-
tablished, young and old. There is, for instance, a museum dedicated to one of the most influential voices in Danish humour in the 20th century, also a cartoonist, stage performer and painter. And as an extra summer treat, at the back of Copenhagen’s own Design Museum, Grønnegårds Teatret sets up stage every summer for plenty of belly laughs courtesy of top-quality acting. Add the largest annual food market in the Nordics and of course a chance to kick back and relax on the Danish Riviera, and you will see why Denmark makes a popular summer destination – not least for true culture vultures.
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
Tivoli. Photo: Tivoli Friheden
Kronborg Castle, Helsingør. Photo: Niclas Jessen
Sand sculpture festival. Photo: Devid Rotasperti
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
Copenhagen Philharmonic at Tivoli. Photo: Martin Bubandt
Tivoli Youth Gard at main gate. Photo: Claudia Dons
Harmony and high notes at Tivoli Most visitors to Denmark will hear of Denmark’s most visited attraction Tivoli, the magical pleasure garden located smack-bang in the centre of Copenhagen. Opened in 1843, Tivoli is the world’s second-oldest amusement park – and the only one with its own symphony orchestra. Music and performance have always been part of Tivoli’s magic, and today, visitors can enjoy anything from rock concerts to the world’s most renowned classical musicians on a daily basis. By Louise Older Steffensen
The hiring of the Danish composer Hans Christian Lumbye, the ‘Strauss of the North’, to be musical director in 1843 highlights the important role that classical music has played at Tivoli from the very beginning. It is something Lumbye’s modern counterpart, Maria Frej, wishes to emphasise during her own directorship. “Classical music is for everyone. Just like Tivoli itself, there’s such great variety and people of all ages and tastes can find something they enjoy,” she says. “One of our favourite things is grandparents bringing their grandchildren for a day of magic at Tivoli, and introducing them to classical music as a natural part of that experience.” Tivoli features its own hugely talented Tivoli Youth Gard, whose daily parades are a mainstay of a Tivoli visit, as well as 32 | Issue 113 | June 2018
six musical venues, including the classic concert hall, a glass-hall theatre and a pantomime theatre dating back to 1874. This summer, the large open-air stage Plænen hosts musicians including a-ha and Mew for its weekly Friday Rock concerts – free with admission to Tivoli – while Tivoli’s Concert Hall welcomes the New York City Ballet, the Russian National Orchestra and many others. “We’re lucky to be able to host internationally renowned artists from near and far, from opera singers to jazz musicians,” Frej adds. She has made regular events a priority, with each day of the week assigned a theme such as Mundo Mondays, Jazz Wednesdays and Swing Saturdays. They also put on high-quality classical concerts at 3pm every Sunday. “We’ve got 27 classical concerts over the
summer, featuring stars such as pianist András Schiff treating us to Bach and the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra conducted by the legendary Daniel Barenhoim.” For younger audiences, this summer brings parades and special Youth Guard concerts to celebrate Tivoli’s 175th anniversary. “Tivoli deserves to be celebrated,” Frej concludes. “It’s got the best of everything from lights to rides and performances. I can’t think of anywhere else where you can go from candy floss and rollercoasters to top-quality ballet and classical music in a matter of minutes.” Orchestra. Photo: Anders Bøggild
Read more about the ‘Summer Classical’ and ballet programmes at: Web: www.tivoligardens.com Facebook: tivoli Instagram: @tivolicph
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
Back to Nature.
High-level humour and satire in the heart of Copenhagen The Storm P. Museum is dedicated to the much-loved Danish artist Robert Storm Petersen (1882-1949). Storm P. was one of the most influential characters in the shaping of Danish humour in the 20th century. Even though he is today mostly known for his humorous cartoons and short stories, he was also a stage performer and a serious painter with an international outlook. By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Storm P. Museet
“Storm P.’s humour speaks to most Danes, and his art offers a unique insight into the Danish humour tradition. Even though he is best known for his humour, he was so much more than a traditional newspaper cartoonist; he had a profoundly international outlook, and he was particularly inspired by the United States, France and Germany. He was very open-minded and well-versed in art and culture, and there was often a philosophical twist to both his paintings and his humour,” says Nikolaj Brandt, curator at The Storm P. Museum. “Storm P. was often the voice of the voiceless. In his art, he would frequently choose the perspective of a child or a vagabond, forming an opposition to the grey and dull masses of people who blindly follow societal conventions,” Brandt explains. “He
was excellent at making people laugh at themselves.”
Combine with a visit to other museums Since 2012, The Storm P. Museum has expanded, and today the museum regularly hosts exhibitions with artists other than Storm P. “We want to work with humour and satire in a more general and contemporary way. Even though Storm P. is still relevant, his art is anchored in history,” says Brandt. The Storm P. Museum is a part of the Frederiksberg Museums, a string of five museums and exhibition spaces, all within easy walking distance of each other along a green museum route that takes you through two of the city’s finest parks, Frederiksberg Garden and Søndermarken.
The Frederiksberg Museums offer cultural encounters to visitors who wish to escape the bigger venues across the city in order to enjoy a more original experience and intimate atmosphere. The museums offer a Museum Pass at 145 DKK (around 17 GBP), which entitles guests to a visit at each of the five sites. Why not combine your visit to The Storm P. Museum with an exploration of the urban dripstone cave and exhibition space, The Cisterns, or a stroll through the literary, romantic and culinary Bakkehuset?
Web: www.stormp.dk and www.frederiksbergmuseerne.dk
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
Photo: Lars Gejl
A place where time stands still, but nothing stays the same In the ever-changing landscape of the Wadden Sea National Park, the tidal waters, changing light and continuous flux of migratory birds create new experiences every moment. For summer visitors, the enormous, white sandy beaches, thousands of starlings, and guided walks on the sea bed are just a few of the attractions at the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea in Denmark. By Signe Hansen
Listed as a world heritage site in 2014, Denmark’s part of the Wadden Sea, the adjoining coastline and small, sandy islands, is a place where change and continuity go hand in hand. Though the whole area oozes stillness and peace, no two minutes are ever alike, explains communication officer Jens L. Hansen. “The Wadden Sea is a place where nothing ever stays the same, and that is one of the great experiences of visiting the area. The tidal water changes the entire landscape, the light changes, and, following the tidal water, the birds and wildlife change, all 34 | Issue 113 | June 2018
making for a completely different experience from one moment to another.” In addition to amazing nature, the area also contains a number of cultural and historic attractions: charming villages, historic buildings, visitor centres and museums.
Biodiversity Thanks to the spectacular tidal waters, which turn the sea bed into an open buffet for migrating birds and provide a multitude of transitional habitats for ma-
rine creatures, the Wadden Sea area is teeming with biodiversity. Water birds, oysters and Denmark’s largest population of seals are just some of the many creatures thriving amidst the open sky and sea. But though the area, which became a National Park in 2010, has always been a favoured holiday destination, there is still a certain feeling of novelty to a visit. Maybe it is because the magic of the complex landscape – which, with 145,900 hectares, is the largest national park in Denmark – is not easily conveyed on film and in social media. “When you look at areas such as the Grand Canyon and Great Barrier Reef, it is self-evident why they are UNESCO-listed; the wonder of the Wadden Sea is not as straightforward, but once people experience the amazing nature we have, it becomes obvious. The Wadden Sea actually has a greater bio production per square metre than the rain forest,”
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
says Peter Saabye Simonsen, manager at the National Park administration. The very special bio production makes the park one of the world’s most important habitats for migrating birds. “To give an example, when a Red Knot lands here in the spring, it can consume thousands of small snails, worms and creatures living in the tidal flats, and we have more than 12 million water birds landing and feeding here every year,” Simonsen points out. The most famous attraction of the area is also created by birds: it is when the sun goes black. This happens every autumn and spring when millions of starlings flock together at sunset, blacking out the sky and creating a most striking natural spectacle.
Walk on the seabed The birds are not the only ones to favour the delicacies thriving in the tidal waters. The area is known for its delicious oysters,
Photo: Nationalpark Vadehavet
Guided oyster tours are offered throughout the Wadden Sea area and are especially popular around Christmas and New Year. Photo: Ditte Hviid
which can be picked straight from the sea in autumn, winter and spring (due to the possibility of algae contamination, it is not recommended to pick and eat oysters from May to August). Guided oyster tours are offered by, among other providers, one of the area’s biggest attractions, the newly reopened Vadehavscentret. Built completely in straw, the architectonically stunning visitor centre presents a large exhibition on the area’s migratory birds and offers a number of guided tours including oyster tours, tours of the sea bed, and walks to one of the islands that become accessible by foot during low tide. “One of the coolest summer experiences is a guided walk on the bottom of the sea. It’s possible twice a day, when the tide is low and the sea bed, otherwise covered by metres of water, opens up for walks. That’s not possible in any other place than the Wadden Sea,” says Hansen. “You can walk for kilometres and all of sudden you’re stood in the
midst of everything, nothing but sky and horizons above and around you. It’s an indescribable experience.” On top of the amazing natural experiences, visitors can also explore the history of the area’s role in the Second World War at the newly opened Tirpitz Museum. Designed by the Danish architect Bjarke Ingels, the museum is beautifully integrated into a sand dune and connected to the old German Tirpitz bunker via an underground corridor. The Wadden Sea, which covers coastal areas of Germany and Holland as well as Denmark, is the world’s largest remaining unbroken system of intertidal ecosystems, where natural processes continue to function largely undisturbed.
Web: www.nationalparkvadehavet.dk
The stunning phenomenon of Black Sun – the gathering of thousands of starlings blackening out the sky – can be experienced at summertime at the Wadden Sea National Park. Photo: Aage Matthiesen
The islands of the Wadden Sea are known for their fantastic white sandy beaches. The beach on Rømø is one of Europe’s widest. Photo: John Frikke
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 35
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
From castles to computers What do Scandinavia’s best-preserved medieval tower, a World War I-era fortress and an atomic bomb have in common? They are all on display at the Danish Castle Centre. Based in the town of Vordingborg in southern Zealand, the Castle Centre draws together the past and the present by looking at the structures, people and powers involved through a millennium of wars and threats. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Danmarks Borgcenter
Though only the famous Gåsetårnet (‘Goose Tower’) remains intact, the partial ruins of Vordingborg Castle are in themselves worth a visit. Spread across 3.7 hectares, Vordingborg Castle was once Denmark’s biggest fortress and the home of three Valdemar kings, as well as countless normal people going about their daily business. Today, the castle is brought back to life thanks to augmented reality, which allows visitors young and old to shape their own journey back in time to the hustle and bustle of the 12th and 13th centuries. And just wait until you find out what is underground… “Digital storytelling and modern technology have allowed us to connect our present visitors to the past in whole new ways,” says historian and head of department Thomas Tram Pedersen. “Visitors can now use individual iPads to pick and choose the style and depth of infor36 | Issue 113 | June 2018
mation they receive as they walk around and focus on particular themes, stories or tasks.” Those looking for a non-digital experience need not despair either, as some of Denmark’s best guides are also available for tours in Danish, German and English. During the summer season, visitors can try out medieval clothes, crafts and games, explore the most recent excavations at the site and guard against enemies from the top of Gåsetårnet. “In the Middle Ages, Vordingborg was at the social and geographical centre of the Danish kingdom,” Tram Pedersen explains. “Later on, as Denmark shrunk and Germany’s borders moved all the way to the sea, the Vordingborg area became an important, strategic seaside location for protecting Copenhagen.” Between 1915 and 1918, 300 soldiers were stationed at the nearby, equally hidden Masnedø Fort, waiting for the First World War to reach
Denmark. It never did, but the fort remained in use through the Second World War and the Cold War. It is now part of the story of defence told at the Castle Centre’s equally camouflaged new exhibition centre: hidden underground beneath the ancient castle, 2018’s Rethink War exhibition explores the relationship between threat and ingenuity through the inventions of stirrups, cannons, computers and the atomic bomb, connecting medieval castles to ‘fake news’. And yes, the exhibition features a real-life atomic bomb.
Web: www.danmarksborgcenter.dk Facebook: danmarksborgcenter Instagram: @castlecentre Twitter: @Borgcenter
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
A night to remember in the fresh air The Design Museum, based in the centre of Copenhagen, opens its garden to Grønnegårds Teatret every summer. In this peaceful enclave in the middle of the hustle of the city, people gather to watch some of Denmark’s most renowned actors and actresses perform comedies. By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Helle Riis
“Having it in this space really gives the theatre a special feel. The stage is close to the audience and it’s very intimate,” explains Steen Stig Lommer, theatre manager and actor. “The garden becomes a theatre in its own right, and both the actors and the audience are united by being out in the elements together. There’s a togetherness that you simply don’t get in a traditional theatre.” An evening at Grønnegårds Teatret often starts with a picnic. There is space for 1,040 spectators in the audience and upwards of 700 start the night with a picnic, which they have either brought themselves or reserved to pick up at the café. The garden opens two hours before the show starts, so there is plenty of time to enjoy each other’s company and some good food and drink.
Come rain or shine Grønnegårds Teatret performs classic comedies, and this summer they are put-
ting on The Misanthrope by Molière, with Nicolas Bro in the role of the protagonist. “We always aim to choose a comedy that not only continues to captivate and delight, but also has a relevance to our modern world. The Misanthrope, for example, questions how we speak to and perceive each other. It’s a topic that’s often discussed today, and we hope that by showing it in the context of a fun and engaging comedy, we’re able to show a different facet of the topic,” says Lommer. As the theatre is open-air and the Danish summer rather unpredictable, bringing extra layers and some waterproofs is essential. “We try not to cancel the performance, and instead we take little breaks if it’s raining and wait it out. Of course, we sometimes have to stop, but it’s actually surprisingly rare,” says Lommer. “What we want is for people to have fun and enjoy their evening. It’s a fantastic stage to be an actor on, and we want the
audience to share in our enjoyment of the performance and experience,” he enthuses. The combination of the relaxed atmosphere, fantastic set design and costumes, and superb acting makes an evening at Grønnegårds Teatret not only enjoyable, but also an evening to remember for many years to come.
The Misanthrope. Photo: Per Arnesen
Season: 29 June to 25 August, except 8-15 July. Play: The Misanthrope (in Danish) Web: www.groennegaard.dk Facebook: groennegaardsteatret
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 37
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
The art of our time In the 1970s, the art scene in Tistrup, Denmark was budding, and a group of pioneering young art enthusiasts were making the most of it. They started to buy art from artists of the time and eventually set up a museum: Janus – Vestjyllands Kunstmusem (West Jutland’s Art Museum). Janus is today known for its collection of contemporary Danish art, which it has collected organically since the ‘70s through working with different artists. “We’ve always worked closely with the people who have exhibited their work at Janus. We work with new as well as established artists and want to always have something that’s exciting for our visitors to see,” explains Bjarke Regn Svendsen, artist and former artistic director of Janus. Outside of its own collection of over 5,000 pieces of art, the museum also puts on special exhibitions throughout the year, displaying a wide range of art. One of the biggest exhibitions is the censored summer exhibition, in which artists are picked
by a committee to be exhibited at Janus. “This exhibition is often a stepping stone for new artists, and always very exciting to visit as it’s truly the next generation of artists on show,” says Svendsen.
By Josefine Older Steffensen | Photos: Janus
Janus has become home to many of Denmark’s modern artists. The museum itself can be found in Tistrup in a building built solely for this purpose. With big rooms as well as a library dedicated to art, the museum is sure to be a good day out both for art connoisseurs and those looking to explore the many facets of Danish art. Web: www.janusbygningen.dk
Art for the people in idyllic surroundings Located right by the beautiful and idyllic Damhusengen in Copenhagen, Heerup Museum could not wish for better surroundings to showcase Henry Heerup’s beloved paintings. This summer, you can experience the highlights of Heerup’s art in the exhibition Summer all year. By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Heerup Museum
Henry Heerup is one of Denmark’s most cherished artists. He created art for the people, and he was always playful with everything he created. He loved nature, people and his family, which shines through in every painting. “Heerup didn’t make art for the selected few. He made art for the people. His paintings portray motifs from our everyday lives: families, a mother with her child, people in love, a child with a kitten. People can relate to his paintings, and they see themselves in his art,” says Anni Lave Nielsen, director at Heerup Museum.
Fairy tales and summer One of Heerup’s biggest inspirations was the beloved Danish fairy-tale writer H.C. Andersen. When Heerup lived in Nørrebro in 38 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Copenhagen, he could practically see H.C. Andersen’s grave, and each year, Heerup celebrated the writer’s birthday. “He almost saw H.C. Andersen as a hero, and he was very inspired by all the fairy tales and the playfulness,” Nielsen explains. This summer, you can experience all of Heerup’s highlights when the museum opens the exhibition Sommer hele året (Summer all year). “It’s a way of showing
people that summer can stay with them all year. You can keep the feeling of summer in your heart and mind,” says Nielsen. After exploring the paintings, you can enjoy an ice cream or a cup of coffee outside, or take a stroll through Damhusengen. Web: www.heerup.dk
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
The Sand Sculpture Festival 2012. Photo: VNS
Marienlyst Strandhotel.
Where history meets pleasure and business North Zealand is the perfect place for a getaway or romantic weekend, a holiday with the kids or a business meeting and conference. It is known as Denmark’s Royal Retreat, but it is much more than that; it is where you can find the beautiful Danish Riviera, where history comes to life, and where you have a unique opportunity to combine business with pleasure. By Heidi Kokborg
In the past few years, the Danish Riviera has blossomed, and today, North Zealand is one of the most magical and beautiful places you can experience in Denmark. You will find luxurious spas and romantic hotels that are perfect for a weekend getaway with your partner or an all-girls weekend. “Independently of each other, four wealthy people have bought hotels in our pastorate, and today, they are all worldclass hotels. Hotel Marienlyst even has a brand-new spa, where you have a view of Kronborg Castle. It is amazing what they have done with these hotels,” says Berit Elmark, head of development at VisitNordsjælland.
Living history North Zealand is also a great destination for families. This summer, you will find a variety of fun and exciting events
and things to do while visiting the Danish Riviera. At Kronborg Castle, Shakespeare’s Hamlet comes to life. “They have rewritten the play in such a way that it’s a bit more relatable and contemporary. Then there are actors walking around the castle, acting out different scenes from Hamlet. So, you might just run into Ophelia with her herbs in one of the halls,” says Elmark. The castle also hosts Mystery Hunts, where you decipher riddles in order to solve a mystery. Whether you come with a friend or with your family, you are guaranteed to have fun on one of the Mystery Hunts. Among many exciting activities and events during the summer, you can also visit the Sand Sculpture festival in Hundested. The festival has 70,000 guests every year, and when you see the amazing sand sculp-
tures, you will understand why so many people come to see them.
Business at the Riviera North Zealand is not only a lovely place for holidays with the family and getaways with your partner or friends. It is also the perfect place for business meetings, conferences and parties. “You can hire a castle for your wedding, rent a hotel for two days to host a conference, or even go sailing on the Scandlines while you have business meetings. There are some quite unique meeting places on the Danish Riviera,” Elmark smiles.
Hamlet Live 2016, Kronborg Castle. Photo: Tobias Fonsmark.
Web: www.visitnordsjaelland.dk and www.unique-meetings.com Facebook: VisitNordsjælland Instagram: @visitnordsjaelland
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 39
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
A wonderland of culinary specialities Culinary Southern Fyn in Denmark is the biggest annual market and display of foods in the north. More than 120 exhibitors present their delicacies, while the guests fill their stomachs with food and their minds with knowledge. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Kulinarisk Sydfyn
Each year at the end of June, Svendborg turns into a wonderland of culinary specialties. 15,000 visitors pop by to what will hopefully change their way of thinking about food, while the exhibitors, most of them local, get a valuable experience too. “Our guests are fantastic for the exhibitors for several reasons. First of all, they spend money, which allows the exhibitors to invest in further development of their products, but they also provide useful feedback. If the food tastes good, they’ll buy it. It’s as simple as that, and that’s one of the main reasons why we arrange the market,” says Mikael Hansen, project manager of Culinary Southern Fyn and organiser of the food market. The market was first introduced 18 years ago and has kept growing ever since. Last year, they introduced The Great Feast as an extension to the market to celebrate the local exhibitors and a focus on local ingredients. “That was a huge success, 40 | Issue 113 | June 2018
so we’ll do it again this year in the days leading up to the actual market. We aim to be innovative and make sure that there is always something new for our visitors to taste,” says Hansen.
selves food nerds, Hansen promises that there are plenty of things for children to do as well. “We have the Nordic Food Lab, where they can try a lot of different things, and there’ll be workshops where they can make pasta, sushi, chocolate and so much more. The food market is a lot of things, but it’s first and foremost popular, festive and enjoyable.”
Food for the mind Authenticity is one of the keywords for Culinary Southern Fyn. “Our visitors want the real deal. They want to learn new things about the food and understand the process – and we want to teach our visitors where the food comes from,” says Hansen, adding: “That’s the reason why we started the Culinary Folk High School, where local producers serve tastings while our guests listen to the story behind the food. Our visitors will be full when they leave the market. Full of food, and full of knowledge.” This year’s food market will take place on 23 and 24 June, and even though Culinary Southern Fyn consider them-
Web: www.kulinarisksydfyn.dk
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Danish Culture Special
View, listen to and participate in the art of today Forget about dusty paintings and marble sculptures – with a special focus on crossdisciplinary art, Museet for Samtidskunst (The Museum of Contemporary Art) presents some of Denmark’s most talented young artists, combining genres such as video, music, sculpture and performance. By Signe Hansen
Located in a two-storey Baroque building in the centre of Roskilde, The Museum of Contemporary Art has been a bastion for new art since 1991. This summer, the museum presents two exciting exhibitions: a show of highlights from its permanent collection, and HVAD / Kommunal Dubplate Service (municipal record cutting studio) by artist and musician Hari Shankar Kishore. Both will be presenting works that challenge and move between genres. Museum director Birgitte Kirkhoff Eriksen explains: “We’re the only museum in Denmark dedicated exclusively to contemporary art and, as such, we work with art that is produced right here and right now. What is special for us is also that we work with art that combines different
genres, and that means that we very rarely have an exhibition of just paintings; it’s very much works that are time-based.” This is most certainly the case with HVAD, which will not just present the work of artist Hari Shankar Kishore, but also Photo: Maria Laub
include a workshop where visitors can cut their own vinyl record as well as a performance at the nearby Roskilde Festival. “We’re currently embarking on a number of new collaborative projects where the art moves beyond the museum walls. For instance, we’re producing LPs, podcasts and performances so that the art can meet the audience right where they are,” says Kirkhoff Eriksen. Web: www.samtidskunst.dk
Photo: Frida Gregersen
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The West Coast of Himmerland offers a string of spectacular natural sights and experiences, including the coastal cliffs at Ertebølle.
Bite into Himmerland’s west coast Known for its beautiful landscape, delicious produce, and sandy beaches, the west coast of Himmerland is a haven for foodies, golfers and families alike. The area is also the home of Løgstør Mussel Festival, where seafood enthusiasts and families can enjoy a string of activities and, literally, a tonne of Limfjord mussels. By Signe Hansen | Photos: Løgstør Muslingefestival
Shaped by the Ice Age, the soft hills, long beaches and small islands of Himmerland’s west coast seem to be made for holidaying and exploring with loved ones. The area is also known as the source of some of Denmark’s best produce, from the juicy and tender Himmerland meat to the delicate Limfjord Oysters. “Our area is known for its many taste experiences and there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore them,” explains Helene Christensen from Visit West Himmerland. “Wine enthusiasts, for instance, can visit Glenholm Vingård, Denmark’s oldest winery, which, thanks to the unique composition of the soil and the sun reflection from the sea, produces wine of an exceptionally high quality.” Among one of the most distinctive food experiences is Løgstør’s yearly Mussel Festival, which takes place from 13-15 July this year. The festival comprises a number of attractions and activities for children and grown-ups, including music, treasure hunts, open art studios, 42 | Issue 113 | June 2018
guided tours on the historic Frederik the VII Canal, and an arts, craft and food market. The biggest draw, however, is Friday night’s mussel feast, where guests can enjoy ad libitum mussels for just 20 DKK (around 2.40 GBP). Line Myrup from the festival explains: “The atmosphere is absolutely buzzing when we fire up the big goulash cannon on Friday nights. But guests can also experience mussels prepared in all thinkable and unthinkable ways throughout the rest of the festival; we’ve had everything from mussel hotdogs to tapas and mussel meatballs.” For those who miss the festival, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the delicacies at other times: in Løgstør, Kanalfogedens Køkken is widely known for its freshly steamed mussels, while at the charming Næsbydale Badehotel guests are treated to a rustic countryside cuisine. But of course, it is not just about the food; Himmerland also comprises a number of historic and cultural attractions such as the Limfjord Museum, the
historic Frederik the VII Canal, and the site of Aggersborg, Denmark’s largest Viking fortification. On top of that, spectacular natural sights, such as the beautiful coastal cliffs at Ertebølle, greet visitors throughout the area. For those who prefer to enjoy them in a truly active way, the area offers several opportunities for both surfing and golfing. Golfers can enjoy the world-class facilities of the Himmerland Golf & Spa Resort, which has hosted the European Tour – Made in Denmark. Indeed, as food, history and nature melt together in the striking settings of fjords and hills, everyone will find something to bite into at Himmerland’s west coast.
Løgstør Mussel Festival takes place 13-15 July. Web: www.himmerlandsvestkyst.dk
TUNDRA COLLECTION Our classic collection is inspired by the magic nature of the North – made by hand in the Arctic
TANK / FOTO: MARIE LOUISE SOMBY
Design by Regine Juhls
W W W. J U H L S . N O
Galaniittuluodda Kautokeino, Norway
Bryggen 39 Bergen, Norway
NG I ZZ lT a U i B E ec Sp ’S EN Y A SC W R RT O A N e:
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Opening Lars Lerin and Manoel Marques Lerin, October 2017. Photo: Kunstverket Galleri
Blazing the trail for art on paper From Her Majesty the Queen of Norway to young, new artists, Kunstverket Galleri in Oslo has a unique breadth of art and artists to show their visitors, showcasing work by over 200 different Nordic artists.
contemporary prints our niche. Since then, we have also included other works on paper in our exhibition,” says director Petter U. Morken.
By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Kunstverket Galleri / Trond Isaksen
Located right in the middle of the art district, in the historic area of Kvadraturen in Oslo, Kunstverket is one of the leading privately owned galleries for prints and fine art on paper in the Nordic region, showcasing what they regard as the foremost graphic artists from the region. One of the most dynamic aspects of the gallery is its comprehensive exhibitions programme, with a focus on solo exhibitions by established artists showing new works, as well as dynamic group exhibitions with up-and-coming talents. 44 | Issue 113 | June 2018
The gallery opened in 1989 and started out exhibiting graphic prints produced by artists at the lithography workshop next door. It soon widened its scope, making contacts with artists and workshops not only throughout Norway but also in the neighbouring countries Sweden, Denmark and Finland. “We realised that printmaking in the Nordic region had its own characteristics and generally held a high level of craftsmanship and quality. Moreover, we found that none of the high-street galleries exhibited prints, so we made Nordic
Nordic printmaking as a tradition started when Edvard Munch (1863-1944) experimented with graphic art as a contemporary medium in the 1890s. Building on these traditions, Nordic artists have since evolved the craft, common influences being melancholy and a strong connection to the characteristic nature of the Nordic regions. In the late 1960s, a graphic wave emerged on the Norwegian art scene, where artists started using editions of prints as a medium to spread their often left-wing political views and to democratise the art scene. One of the leading
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
figures of this movement was the artist Per Kleiva, who made several iconic silkscreens, which now hold the highest price levels for contemporary prints at auctions. This spring, Kunstverket Galleri hosted his last exhibition – the largest retrospective exhibition of the artist’s prints to date. “In contrast to art techniques such as painting and sculpture, prints can be made in editions and can be offered to the audience at a relatively low price. As a result, most Norwegian households, companies and institution are owners of fine art prints,” says Morken.
Art from the Queen of Norway Internationally, printmaking has had a renaissance. Prints are used as a way of artistic expression both by our most well-regarded established artists and by the younger generations of artists. Moreover, prints are now exhibited at art museums, acquired by collectors and esteemed art collections, and receive high prices at auction houses. “A great contributor to this development is H.M. Queen Sonja, and the Queen Sonja Print Award, established in 2011 to generate interest in and promote the development of graphic art. It has now become the world’s largest graphic art award. This is, of course, of immense importance to all of us lovers of the print medium,” says Morken. Kunstverket Galleri has had the honour of exhibiting prints created by Queen Sonja
herself, as well as several exhibitions with the first winner, Tiina Kiivinen. They also collaborate with the Queen’s Award when it comes to exhibiting the winner of the Kjell Nupen Memorial Grant.
London Original Print Fair Kunstverket Galleri also wants the rest of the world to explore Nordic contemporary prints. They regularly attend the London Original Print Fair, which takes place annually at The Royal Academy of Arts in London. The fair is the longest-running print fair in the world, bringing together some 50 international galleries with expert print knowledge, and is an important and relevant meeting place for curators and collectors of prints from around the world. “We keep building an international audience and receive much attention for the Nordic contemporary prints we represent. Being the only gallery from the Nordic region at the fair presents a unique opportunity to bring our artists into the spotlight,” Morken explains. In 2018, the gallery was invited to present themselves and their artists to some 30 international curators and collectors at an event arranged at the Norwegian Ambassador’s residence in London. Visitors at Kunstverket Galleri can expect exciting exhibitions of high-quality prints from renowned Nordic artists. At all times, you can also visit the gal-
lery and expect to find prints from more than 200 artists, presented by the service-minded and knowledgeable staff at the gallery. “Like the artist Inger Sitter said, visual artists only have three seconds to catch people’s attention when they walk past our work and occasionally stop. At the gallery, we aim to make people stop and spend some more time to explore the technical qualities and capture the story embedded in each of the many fine prints.” About Kunstverket Galleri: Kunstverket Galleri is a leading gallery for contemporary fine art prints based in central Oslo. The gallery has since its establishment in 1989 worked with contemporary art from the Nordic countries, with a focus on promoting high-quality graphic prints and works on paper as a serious contributor to the Norwegian contemporary art scene. Kunstverket Galleri presents works by renowned artists such as Inger Sitter, Ørnulf Opdal, Kjell Nupen, Tiina Kivinen, Lars Lerin, Håkon Bleken, Magne Furuholmen, Marianne Heske, Sverre Malling and Sverre Bjertnes.
Upcoming exhibition: Sverre Malling, Arne Bendik Sjur, Roj Friberg and Louis Moe, 30 August to 23 September 2018.
Web: www.kunstverket.no
Memorial exhibition, Per Kleiva, April 2018.
Kjell Nupen exhibition, June 2018.
Opening of exhibition with HM Queen Sonja. Photo: Morten Brun
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 45
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
Cylindra Gallery of Norway:
A symbiotic experience of art, furniture and nature A contemporary gallery, Cylindra Gallery focuses on Peter Opsvik’s work. His ergonomic chairs are known across the globe, including the Tripp Trapp chair and his different Balans chairs, but at Cylindra Gallery, he focuses on furniture objects and cabinet-like paintings. Welcome to Cylindra Gallery: a symbiotic experience of art, furniture and nature. Photos: Galleri Cylindra
“Peter Opsvik’s cabinets play on the duality between the closed and the open. They exist as a kind of objectified thing somewhere between functional furniture and existential art. Some of his cabinets bear a closer resemblance to a rectangular painting, where the doors are openable hatches, like those on an advent calendar. In others, the whole cabinet consists of fold-out elements, reminiscent of a Japanese origami figure, or sev46 | Issue 113 | June 2018
eral uniting in a cabinet,” Allis Helleland, former director at the Museum of Art, Architecture and Design in Oslo once said. Even though Peter Opsvik is most famous for his furniture, he has also been working with visual art and different objects since the 1960s. His first major exhibitions were held at Kunstindustrimuseet in Oslo in 1986 and in Bergen in 1996 – both showcasing his sculptural furniture.
In addition to his Cylindra cupboards and cabinets, Cylindra Gallery will this summer display a selection of Opsvik’s work, both new and older pieces. It is not easy to categorise his artwork as belonging to a specific category. As he himself puts it: “How do you define a cupboard that can’t house objects, or paintings where you can open the canvas to reveal storage for messages or objects? Do cupboards need contents? What hides behind closed doors? How many will walk away from an open door?” The idea of these cylindrical designs came into being when Opsvik was experimenting with the cylindrical shape at the beginning of the 1980s. “When I worked in graphic art and with paintings on pa-
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
per or canvas with only two dimensions, I often wished for a basic form that could be shaped freely and yet be functional,” Opsvik explains. “The solid wood cylinder made my wish come true.” In Tusvik, a village in Møre og Romsdal in Norway, visitors can experience not only strikingly beautiful art and craft, but also the landscape it is inspired by. Often called the most beautiful landscape in the world, the mythical, impressive mountain peaks and green valleys of the western Norwegian county, and in this Sykkylven municipality in particular, make for an experience unlike any other. “I have been working with Peter for 30 years now, and it has been the most interesting time of my life,” says Kjellbjørn Tusvik, owner of Cylindra Gallery and workshop. Besides being an industrial
designer, working with ergonomic seat solutions such as Capisco, the Balans concept and adjustable children’s chairs such as Tripp Trapp and Nomi, Opsvik is deeply concerned with the environment and has designed a foldable kick scooter, the Citrus, to reduce the use of cars in cities. “I work with his more artistic side, the Cylindra Objects,” says Tusvik. “More than 200 different objects have come to life in this collection, and they have been exhibited in the US and Europe. In a way, the Cylindra Objects have been building bridges between art and design throughout the world.” Web: www.designvegen.no and www.opsvik.no Phone, Cylindra: 00 47 915 64 695
Peter Opsvik in his workshop. Photo: Ivar Kvaal
Some of Peter Opsvik’s cabinets in acrylic/plywood/photo that are on display at Cylindra Gallery this summer.
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 47
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
Art not art, DGA print.
Dog with man.
Low-fat milk, DGA print.
Urban art in the heart of Oslo Right in the heart of the buzzing Grünerløkka area of Oslo, you will find Line Marsdal in Purenkel galleri, a combined art studio and gallery, surrounded by genre-defying pieces of art. Combining new with old, and playing with different materials and directions, Marsdal is a breath of fresh air on the art scene in her native Norway.
to have a look around. You can browse through the stacks of paintings leaning against the walls, maybe buy a piece or two, or just have a chat with Marsdal about what it is you are looking at.
By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Line Marsdal
Born and raised in Oslo, Marsdal thrives on the city vibe – the ever-changing neighbourhoods, the pulsing streets, the creative crowds and the never-ending inspirations right outside her door. Intent on showing that urban art encompasses so much more than just street art and graffiti, she has never cared for borders or rules but uses them as a starting point to get to somewhere completely different and unexpected. Aside from painting, DGA – short for Digital Graphic Art – is one of Marsdal’s favoured techniques. An element, such as a person or object, is painted or cut out in lino and printed, then photographed and loaded into a computer. The images are then used as one or more detail layers of a 20- to 30-layer piece already being 48 | Issue 113 | June 2018
painted digitally. The finished print is an intriguing and complex mixture of all the different techniques.
Should you wish to create art yourself, Marsdal also organises workshops in her gallery, letting people try their hand at monoprint and image transfer.
A subtle sense of humour plays a big part in Marsdal’s work. Her pieces tell the stories of people or animals she has seen on her walks around town, or ideas she turns into visual expressions, and she likes to make people smile. “Sometimes the motif itself will make them smile,” she says, “or sometimes they will look at a piece, and then they start laughing when reading the title of it.”
The phone booth.
She finds that art is something that should be accessible for everybody, and her gallery, conveniently located next to Oslo’s most famous coffee shop, is open and welcoming to anyone who wishes
The tram.
Web: www.linemarsdal.no and www.purenkel.no Instagram: @linemarsdal and @purenkel_galleri
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
Shining a light on 1970s feminist art Stavanger Art Museum’s history dates back to the mid-1800s and is a staple in the Stavanger art-scene. This summer, they aim to shine a light on the feminist art of the 1970s and the artists that put the spotlight on their own lives through art. Woman – the Feminist Avant-Garde of the 1970s – works from SAMMLUNG VERBUND Vienna starts on 15 June. This is a big exhibition about one of the most important phenomena in the history of 1970s art: women stepping up and claiming their space and their own selfdetermined image. The exhibition mainly consists of photography, which at the time was a new and slightly frowned upon form of art, and though decades have passed, the pictures are as important now as they were then. “The pieces are snapshots of a time that still feels relevant today,” says director Hanne Beate Ueland. “They’re from an era when women spoke up about their own situation through art for the first time. They often used their own bodies in the photographs to comment on inequality in life as well as on the art scene.”
The exhibition covers five main topics: mother; housewife and wife; role-plays; locked up – breaking out; the beautiful body; and female sexuality. 57 artists will be featured in the installation, among them names such as Judy Chicago, Dara Birnbaum, Ana Mendieta and Cindy Sherman.
By Alyssa Nilsen
The exhibition will be running from 15 June to 15 October 2018.
Web: www.stavangerkunstmuseum.no
Left: Ulrike Rosenbach, Art is a criminal action No. 4. Photo: BONO, Oslo, 2018 / The SAMMLUNG VERBUND Collection, Vienna. Right: Alexis Hunter, Approach to Fear Voyeurism. Photo: Courtesy of Richard Saltoun, London / The SAMMLUNG VERBUND Collection, Vienna
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 49
Gro Mukta Holter (b. 1976) is a painter, graphic artist, drawing artist With a Master of Arts from Oslo National Academy of Arts, Holter has been nominated for and won several awards, and her artwork is featured in around 30 to 40 galleries around Norway, in addition to her showroom in Oslo and her online gallery. Holter focuses on figurative imagery in her drawings, paintings and graphics. “I like working with crafts and doing things from scratch, where it starts with drawings. I steer clear of anything digital – I’m much more interested in preserving old techniques.”
Photo: Knut Bry
Atelier: Dannevigsveien 18 A 0463 Oslo Billedkunstner/Visual Artist +47 41 44 09 23 org.nr:984331185 // Muktamagic Prod.
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
Helle Siljeholm, Muaz at sea border. Summer 2016, (location scouting) 2016.
Akram Zaatari, The Reconstruction of the Arab Highway, 2007.
Read Yassin, Kissing, from Dancing, Smoking, Kissing series, 2013.
Diverse art in the heart of Oslo In the oldest building in Kvadraturen, Oslo’s oldest district, Oslo Kunstforening has been residing for more than 80 years. Here, the non-profit institution has played a part in creating and shaping the Norwegian art and culture scene and is today showcasing diverse contemporary art from all around the world. By Synne Johnsson
When Oslo Kunstforening (OK) was founded in 1836, it was the first art institution in Norway. It was founded because the citizens of Oslo wished to support Norwegian artists and start building a local art scene. At the same time, OK saw the importance of showcasing art from the entire world. “In many ways, we work the same way today. The starting point for how we think is that Norway is a part of the world and the world is part of Norway. The art scene in Oslo is the starting point for our content. The place is our viewing point from where we view the world,” says Marianne Hultman, artistic leader and general manager. The purpose of this is to point out and highlight a common narrative with a micro as well as macro perspective. In recent years, OK has worked with an exhibition programme based on local, regional and international collaborations, where the international aspect is orientated towards art from outside of Europe.
“Presenting a perspective from outside of Europe, especially by practitioners from the Middle East and Africa, points towards the local diversity of our country while at the same time broadening our worldly perspective,” Hultman explains. She suggests that the arts’ most important purpose is to create a space to reflect upon the world we live in. “We don’t think that art can change the world, but it can offer us unconventional perspectives. Art rarely provides answers, but it asks questions that force us to think, maybe even think in new ways,” she says. This year, OK has shown the exhibition Beirut, Beyrut, Beyrouth, Beyrout, where the North meets the Middle East. The exhibition highlights and queries a socio- politically complex society and its history with sharpness, gravity, heartache and humour. The title points to the cultural diversity that Lebanon represents – with long traditions of being a multicultural and multilingual region.
The exhibition is curated by Marianne Hultman and Ýrr Jónasdóttir along with Birta Guðjónsdóttir, and is shown at Oslo Kunstforening in Norway, Ystads Konstmuseum in Sweden and Listasafn Íslands, the National Gallery of Iceland. It stayed on view at OK until 10 June and is set to open in Ystad on 8 September, remaining there until 11 November. Oslo Kunstforening will be presenting a solo exhibition by Zambian-Norwegian artist Anawana Haloba this August. Haloba has participated in a number of international biennales but has not been presented with a solo show in Oslo in ten years. OK will have the pleasure of presenting a site-specific sound installation.
Oslo Kunstforening: Web: www.oslokunstforening.no Facebook: oslokunstforening Instagram: @oslo_kunstforening
Ystads konstmuseum: Web: www.ystad.se/kultur/ystadskonstmuseum Facebook: ystadskonstmuseum Instagram: @ystadskonstmuseum
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 51
Kie Sølv, a Norwegian brand by jewellery designer Kirsti Eriksen, offers silver designs inspired by ancient techniques with a modern twist. The design is timeless and ment to fit both casual and formal. Kie Sølv is available through an English webshop and sells her jewellery worldwide.
www.kie.no www.facebook.com/kiesolv instagram: @kiesolv
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
Top left: Ulstein Vibeke Slyngstad, Democracy Part 1, version II (2017). Photo: Øystein Thorvaldsen. Bottom left: Vibeke Slyngstad, Sønstegård I (2018). Photo: Øystein Thorvaldsen. Right: Kristiansand Kunsthall. Photo: Tor Simen.
Kristiansand Kunsthall – a home of modern art Kristansand Kunsthall (the Kristiansand Arts Centre) is a melting pot of contemporary Nordic and international art on the south coast of Norway. Situated at the top of the Kristiansand library, it overlooks the key essentials of a town: the church, the square and the park. It is a cultural treat well worth visiting. By Lisa Maria Berg
Kunsthallen – the German word so fittingly used for an arts centre – is situated at the very heart of the town. It finds itself surrounded by life: boutiques, cafés and restaurants. The centre is not only in the middle of a vibrant town; with its cutting-edge approach to art, it is making the whole city vibrate around it. Let us get one thing straight: the arts centre is not a museum – it is so much more. It is a hub, a laboratory, a meeting point and an experience. “We want to evoke interest and broaden people’s appreciation and understanding of contemporary art,” says artistic director Cecilie Nissen, who has undertaken a big task in a small town.
As one of 11 arts centres in Norway, it represents an institution at the very helm of modern art in the country. With its mission to lift Scandinavian contemporary art up to where every man and woman can access it, the 11 ‘kunsthalles’ have become a pillar in the Nordic art society. Fitting, then, that they have placed themselves on top of a library – the very definition of publicly owned knowledge and experience. Over the summer, Vibeke Slyngstad exhibits at the centre. Her art travels from photography to oil painting, the bright and delicate colours adding a poetic distance to the concreteness of life. It
is a forceful place she takes the viewer to. “Slyngstad invites the audience to explore the emotional meeting points between colour, image and paint,” explains Nissen. She welcomes the spectator into a beautiful but hard-hitting universe – a place that both contrasts and highlights the surroundings it is in. Visiting the arts centre is part of a bigger journey as well. Kristiansand is itself a pearl on the south coast of Norway, a splendid place for some seaside life, sailing and diving. There is something wholesome about it all that truly fires up the urge to go there. Admiring the view from the arts centre will not only give you an added experience to your visit – it will enrich you too.
Web: www.kristiansandkunsthall.no Instagram: @kristiansandkunsthall
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 53
e:
EN TIC D S lT ID AN CE a i H M N ec Sp SH RO RIE I ED ND XPE W S SA YE M A GE TAW GE m he
Lake Eldan Värmland. Photo: Jacque De Villiers
Romantic, restful Sweden, off the beaten path Hopping on a plane to Sweden is easy. Finding a hotel and ticking off a list of sights in the capital is probably reasonably easily achievable too. But how to find those hidden gems, the romantic hideaways and secret spots? Read on. Photos: imagebank.sweden.se
At close to 174,000 square miles, Sweden is the third-largest country in the European Union by area, and with a population of just under ten million, it is safe to say that Sweden boasts a great deal of just that: space. In addition to deep woods, rolling hills and high mountains with no 54 | Issue 113 | June 2018
villages as far as the eye can see, there are beautiful castles with vast, landscaped grounds, cultural experiences out in nature, and plenty of opportunities to go for a swim – alone in the nip in a peaceful lake, or together with other explorers at well-maintained destinations.
If you are visiting Sweden with a loved one and perhaps looking for that romantic touch, or just want to get off the beaten track and experience an insider’s view of the hidden gems of Sweden, this special theme is for you. We have listed our favourite manors, the most tranquil and relaxing destinations, and of course, some of the most delicious food and drinks too. Enjoy! Web: www.visitsweden.com
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
Photo: Anders Tedeholm
Österlen. Photo: Carolina Romare
Photo: Erik Leonsson
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
Photo: Jenny Nohren
The feel-good manor Situated just a stone’s throw from Sunne, in the heart of the lush woods of the county of Värmland, Ulvsby Manor boasts a proud history dating back to the 1600s. “Our guests say that it’s just like arriving at a friend’s place in the country – those friends who own a manor where you’re always welcome, but treated as a little bit more than a guest,” says owner Marianne Krönsjö. By Linnea Dunne
With peaceful surroundings and stunning views over lake Fryken, Ulvsby Manor is a haven of relaxation and the perfect place for living the good life – and this is nothing new. For centuries, the estate has welcomed guests as well as residents for a spell of lush living and great food and drink, among them Queen Christina of Sweden and Nobel Prize-winning author Selma Lagerlöf. While a part of the manor’s history – that of the local prison back in the 1600s – was destroyed a year and a half ago 56 | Issue 113 | June 2018
when the guest wing was burnt to the ground in a fire, the memory of these special residents will live on for a long time. “We got the construction antiquary involved, but nothing could be salvaged, so we decided instead to take their help to create a new wing – an entirely new guest wing with 13 manor rooms and two suites boasting incredible views across the lake. Each room has been individually designed by a set designer and an artist, and named after a person connected to the manor’s history, such as fictitious characters from Selma
Lagerlöf’s books,” says Krönsjö, who is noticeably excited about the slight expansion, opening this month. “Best of all, there’ll be a mini spa on the ground floor, decorated in a style combining elements of Värmland’s oral tradition and Mediterranean-oriental influences – and boasting panorama windows, naturally.”
Holiday hiking Also inspired by the Mediterranean are the package deals developed around Sunne’s biannual hiking week, perfect for those looking for a combination of a raised pulse in unspoilt nature and quality culinary experiences. With local guides imparting their historical and cultural knowledge to hikers, this is a chance to really get to know an area so full of mythical places and historical landscapes.
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
The hiking trail leads you straight into the wilderness. Your leg muscles may start to tremble from the uphill climb, but as you pause and turn around you are well rewarded for your effort as you gaze out over the woods of Värmland and catch a glimmer from one of the area’s 1,000 lakes. Sunne and its surroundings boast simply breathtaking nature. “Whether you’d prefer an easy stroll through the gardens of Lagerlöf’s Mårbacka or a more challenging hike on well-maintained paths in the wilderness,
you can find it here, complete with an insight into the landscape you are walking through, be it the old mining areas or the Finn Forest,” Krönsjö enthuses. “There’s nothing better than hitting the sauna or sinking into a hot bath with a cold beer and views of the beautiful landscape after returning from a day’s hiking. You get this sense of gratitude: how is it possible that there can be so much beauty all in one place?” Web: www.ulvsbyherrgard.se
Photo: Öyvind Lund
Photo: M Krönsjö
This autumn, the Sunne hiking week will take place between 19 and 23 September. Book a package deal with accommodation, full board and hiking through Ulvsby Manor or one of many other partner organisations, including Selma Spa+, Prostgården Bed & Breakfast, Nature Adventure, Lappnäs Bed & Breakfast, Bada Herrgård B&B, Berga Gård and Broby Gästgivaregård.
Interior designer choosing textiles for the new wing, at Klässbol Weaving Mill. Photo: Marianne Krönsjö
Värmland must-sees When in Värmland, do not miss this topfive of must-see places and activities: Klässbol Weaving Mill: The Royal purveyor of table cloths and bed linen as well as producer of napkins and more for the Nobel Banquet. Watch the production and shop wares in the factory boutique.
Sneak peek of the bathtubs for the new mini spa.
Sunne hiking week
Västanå teater: A magical summertime theatre performing plays by writers including Selma Lagerlöf and Henrik Ibsen. Takes place in a large barn that has been compared to Shakespeare’s Globe, featuring spectacular costume and set design as well as dinner alongside the actors in the break. Alma Löv Museum of Unexp. Art: With beautiful pavilions and a three-storey main building boasting a theatre as well as exhibition halls and a café, Alma Löv Museum is celebrating its 20th
anniversary this year with a significant exhibition of works by Swedish as well as international artists including Evgenia Arbugaeva, Niki Lindroth von Bahr, Karin Broos and Ann Edholm. Selma Lagerlöf’s Mårbacka: Visit the renowned author’s former home and get to know the fascinating woman behind the books. Through the guides, you can also meet people like her maid and her sister and learn about what life on the estate was like. Rottneros Park: After earning a lot of money shipping wood to the paper mills of Europe during World War II, art enthusiast Svante Påhlson created this sculpture park, today presenting over 100 pieces by artists including renowned masters such as Christian Eriksson, Per Hasselberg and Carl Milles. Värmland is also full of charming farm shops, cafés and flea markets.
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
Photo: Helena Bonnevier
Letf: From 27 to 29 July, Skokloster Castle will host the popular Knight Games. Photo: Lotta Larsson. Top right: The exhibition Elsa Beskow’s World at Skokloster Castle will be open from 6 June to 31 August.
Spend a day at the castle One of Europe’s most beautiful Baroque-style castles, Skokloster was built in the 1600s during the Swedish Age of Greatness. Located by Lake Mälaren, the castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and lush nature, ideal for a day out during the summer. By Malin Norman
There is plenty to discover at Skokloster Castle, making it one of the summer’s ideal destinations for families. “Come and spend a day at the castle,” says curator Petri Tigercrona. “There’s a lot to explore including the castle itself with its magnificent rooms, well-preserved furnishings and paintings, but also the stunning castle grounds, which are perfect for walks along the lake and picnics in the sun.” One of this summer’s highlights is the exhibition Elsa Beskow’s World at Skokloster Castle, open from 6 June to 31 August. Here, visitors can meet the characters from children’s books by the famous author, including Aunt Green, Aunt Brown and Aunt Lavender – and they can even try on the aunties’ legendary skirts. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the release of the book series. Elsa Beskow wrote and illustrated more than 40 books and is claimed to have introduced Swedish children’s 58 | Issue 113 | June 2018
books to an international audience. Her work has been translated into more than 25 languages worldwide.
on clothes from the 1600s, or play with some of the old toys. The castle organises a number of guided tours on a daily basis, the café and restaurant offer tasty treats, and visitors can find beautiful gifts in the shop. All set for a day at the castle! Photo: Skoklosters Slott
Try life as a knight From 19 to 21 June, visitors can take part in the popular Knight Camp, led by Patric Fälldin from the Nordic Knights. Experiencing what life was like in the Middle Ages, they can learn how to make a fire and handle horses, or try on a suit of armour. Also on the theme of knights, from 27 to 29 July, Skokloster Castle will host the Knight Games with tournaments and activities, a Middle Age market and guided tours of the weapon collection and suits of armour. Make sure to check out the gems in the former Silver Chamber of the castle or one of the world’s most famous paintings, Vertumnus. And in the mysterious castle tower, the old studio is open for visitors to perhaps read a book, try
Web: www.skoklostersslott.se Facebook: Skoklostersslott Twitter: @skoklosters Instagram: @skoklostersslott
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
The stunning garden right next to the water.
Luxury cars outside the mansion.
The impressive hunting salon.
The 300-year-old entrance avenue.
Live the dream as a mansion owner in Kilafors The tranquil locality of Kilafors harbours one of the most historical and spectacular mansions in Sweden’s history. With intriguing architecture and astonishing nature, Kilafors Mansion rests as a secret ready to be discovered by its next owner.
Being a grand party palace and an outdoor paradise, it is no wonder why the mythical Kilafors Mansion continues to lure and amaze its visitors.
By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Kilafors Herrgård.
It started back in 1725, when Swedish ironmaster Catharina Bröms bought the premises to set up an ironworks business. A lot has happened since then, and if the beautiful walls in the mansion could speak, they would have quite a story to tell. “The mansion has housed many famous people, including royalty such as Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel,” says Per Linell, the current mansion owner. The building rose to fame in the ‘30s and has since welcomed stars such as Rod Stewart, Alice Cooper and Daniel Craig. “The peculiar interior and the nature turned the mansion into a hotspot, and it became known as the grand party palace of Sweden,” Linell continues. “It was the centre for the Formula 1 circus in the ‘60s, with stars like Ronnie Peterson and Emerson Fittipaldi, and the garage on the premises has seen some of the most luxurious cars in the world.” The mansion also appears in many Swedish films. The beautifully curved staircase
in the main building, designed by Isaac Grünewald, is nowadays referred to as the film staircase. “The interior architecture is something else,” confirms Linell.
A lake at the doorstep and hectares of garden A tour around the mansion makes it easy to understand why so many have fallen in love with the place. The main building alone has a grand library, a hunting room and several lavish dining rooms. Accompanied by a left and right wing, the mansion becomes complete with a green house, a tennis court, a private beach house with a round wood sauna, and a helicopter platform. With around 14 hectares of garden, including a private island and lake Bergviken just outside the door, there are plenty of activities to engage in. “It is the perfect place for nature lovers,” says Linell. “The mansion has 500 metres of private beach, surroundings perfect for hunting and fishing, and an 18-hole golf course just five minutes away.”
There are plenty of luxurious dining rooms in the mansion.
The Spanish inspired bodega.
The hunting salon with its balcony.
For more information, including an information video about Kilafors Mansion: Email: per.linell1@outlook.com Phone: 0046-70 0905687 Web: www.kilaforsherrgard.se Facebook: Kilafors-Herrgård
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
Fairytale vibes in charming Trosa Only an hour from Stockholm, Trosa is perfect for a day trip. A visit here is like finding oneself in a story by children’s book author Astrid Lindgren, as this small town is bursting with picturesque scenery, friendly locals and delicious food. By Malin Norman | Photo: Trosa Tourist Center
Trosa is known for its charming streets and wooden houses with glass-enclosed porches. “It is a bit like a fairy tale,” tourism director Malin Karlsson smiles. “Our visitors appreciate the small-town atmosphere, idyllic scenery and friendly locals. It’s like being in a story by Astrid Lindgren.” Unsurprisingly, Trosa features in productions such as the film about fictional character Kalle Blomkvist and the popular German TV series Inga Lindström. But this charming town has more to offer than delightful décor. One of the summer highlights is Trosa Vintage Weekend, an antiques market and auction with expert valuation of jewellery, crockery, watches and the like, taking place on 16-17 June. Anoth-
er not-to-miss event is the traditional Trosa Harvest and Crafts Market on 26 August. Visitors can also explore the historic sites in the town centre on a self-guided tour, take a boat trip to the archipelago, hike along Sörmlandsleden, enjoy other outdoor activities such as kayaking, or perhaps visit one of the royal summer palaces, the beautiful Tullgarn Palace. Discovering the local restaurants is also a must. For instance, Fina Fisken serves rustic specialities such as herring, and Karlsson recommends Marsipan- gården’s marzipan factory and café. Easily accessible by train or bus from Stockholm, Trosa is ideal for a day trip. There are plenty of options for those who want to stay the night too, including the classic
Trosa Stadshotell & Spa, with genuine character and a restaurant dining room from the 1800s; the charming Bomans Hotell, with unique interiors and new things to discover every time; and Ågården, or Tre Små Rum, both of which boast beautiful courtyards.
Web: www.trosa.com Facebook: VisitTrosa Instagram: @visittrosa
Stay at Hotel S:t Clemens, with a clean conscience When visiting Visby, undoubtedly the friendliest place to stay is Hotel S:t Clemens. Close to the hustle and bustle as well as the tranquillity of the seaside, this is also the first environmentally friendly hotel in Gotland.
Schulman suggests: “When visiting Visby, come here and stay with us – and do so with a clean conscience!”
By Malin Norman | Photos: Hotel S:t Clemens
Hotel S:t Clemens is a family-run hotel in the heart of Visby in Gotland. Its historical buildings, dating back to the 1600s, form a miniature version of the small houses and narrow alleys of the old town centre. The hotel has two charming gardens, popular among the guests, as well as access to the ruins of the medieval church of S:t Clemens. There are 30 cosy rooms, individually decorated in retro style with floral wallpaper. “It’s a mix of old and new, exactly like at home,” laughs owner Anna-Britta von Schulman. “We are located near Visby Cathedral, and outside the windows is the greenery of the Botanical Garden. A few minutes away is the busy main city square with its nightlife as well as the peaceful beach, where guests can enjoy the beautiful 60 | Issue 113 | June 2018
sunset. Coming here, you can really experience all that Visby has to offer.” The von Schulman family of two generations took over the hotel in 2007 and makes sure to protect its great heritage and, of course, its reputation for offering fantastic customer service. Hotel S:t Clemens has even been named one of Sweden’s top-ten best service hotels by TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice for an impressive seven years in a row. Moreover, the team is actively working to reduce the hotel’s impact on the climate. For instance, no bottled water is sold at the hotel, and only organic cleaning products are used. In 2009, Hotel S:t Clemens became Gotland’s first environmentally friendly accommodation option, and it offers breakfast with fairtrade and organic products. As von
Web: clemenshotell.se Facebook: clemenshotell Instagram: @clemenshotell
FOTO: ASAF KLIGER
SLEEP ON ICE THIS SUMMER
EVERYTHING DIFFERENT
EXPERIENCE A DIFFERENT SUMMER Switch nightlife for days without end, city tour for fishing trip, hotel room for a night amongst ice art. Experience the Arctic summer in Jukkasjärvi with untouched rivers, the midnight sun that never sets and the glistening winter world inside the permanent ICEHOTEL 365. www.icehotel.com
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
Cool boatel for foodies Named one of the most spectacular floating hotels in the world, Salt & Sill is praised for its great design and scenic views. Popular among foodies, this is also a fabulous restaurant specialising in seafood. By Malin Norman | Photos: Salt & Sill
Located on Klädesholmen, an island on the west coast of Sweden with a long tradition in the herring industry, the floating hotel Salt & Sill offers an unbeatable combination of extraordinary accommodation and wonderful food. It actually began with the restaurant, which since its start in 1999 has been renowned for high-quality food and local produce, with a special mention in the White Guide. In 2008, the same owners opened Sweden’s first floating hotel next to the restaurant. As the island had no capacity for new buildings, they instead built the hotel on pontoons on the water. Made up of six houses, the minimalist Scandinavian-style hotel has 23 bedrooms, some of which have their own ladder into the sea. “Our guests come here for the unique setting, being able to stay so close to the 62 | Issue 113 | June 2018
sea and experience the tranquillity of Klädesholmen, as well as for the food,” says director Jonas Espefors. Unsurprisingly, Salt & Sill has received plenty of attention in international media, with articles in, for instance, CNN Travel, Condé Nast Traveler, Evening Standard and The Telegraph, and has been named one of the coolest ‘boatels’ in the world.
Salt & Sill also works actively towards becoming a more sustainable business and uses turbines powered by the sea’s currents to provide heating for its facilities. During the construction of the hotel itself, the excess material from the seabed was used for a new lobster reef, enriching the marine life further. Often referred to as ‘the herring island’ by locals, Klädesholmen hosts Day of the Herring on 6 June, in celebration of the herring tradition, when Herring of the Year will be announced.
Celebrating herring The word ‘sill’ means herring, and the restaurant serves traditional local dishes with a focus on fish and seafood, including a popular herring board with six different types of herring, as well as classics with a modern twist. Espefors explains that Salt & Sill wants to promote herring as a healthy everyday food. “It’s such a shame that herring is mostly seen during special occasions such as Christmas and Midsummer. Herring is a healthy food which there is no lack of in the sea.”
Web: www.saltosill.se Facebook: Saltosill Instagram: @saltosill
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
Kayak adventures at sea Experience world-class kayaking in Bohuslän. Combining health and wellbeing with fantastic nature, Nautopp Kajakcenter Grebbestad offers courses, excursions and even yoga for kayakers.
yoga weekend for women including yoga, massage and a day with paddling, as well as a class on how to cook with seaweed.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Lena Gustafsson
Guests can also try the trendy stand-up paddle (SUP) board as well as SUP yoga, and a SUP excursion with an overnight stay on one of the islands in the archipelago. This autumn, this kayak-loving team will further expand the yoga part of the offering, and also add new, exciting destinations.
have more dynamic waters further out. And there is no tide, which is unique.”
Set up in 2005, and based in Lysekil for many years, Nautopp Kajakcenter Grebbestad eventually moved to the fishing village of Grebbestad in 2016. Bohuslän is considered by many to be the world’s most beautiful archipelago, so Nautopp has certainly found the right spot. Here, the team focuses on training and experiences for kayak paddlers, with courses for beginners and more advanced kayakers such as rough-water handling and private lessons as well as guided and self-guided excursions in the archipelago, including overnight stays.
Together with Torbjörn Söderholm, she runs the centre and emphasises their strong focus on professionalism and safety for kayakers. Thus, all guides have international qualifications, such as from British Canoeing. In addition to kayaking courses and guided tours, the couple offers a wide range of leading brands in their kayak store and organises kayaking trips abroad, for instance to the Outer Hebrides and the Shetland Islands.
“Grebbestad is the perfect location for us, with its marine wildlife and all the beautiful islands,” says owner and instructor Kathrine Olufsen and elaborates further on the suitable location. “It’s easily accessible and the inner archipelago offers protected paddling, while we also
As part of their concept of health and wellbeing in combination with fantastic nature, Nautopp also offers yoga on the jetty for sea kayakers under the name Yogaflow & Äventyr (Yogaflow & Adventure). At the end of August and again at the end of September, there will be a special
Web: www.nautopp.com Facebook: Nautopp-Kajakcenter-Grebbestad Instagram: @nautoppkajakcentergrebbestad
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
A decade of hospitality right by the sea Situated majestically on the southern Sweden peninsula, Örenäs Castle this year celebrates its 100-year anniversary and makes an ideal destination for large conference groups, families and couples alike. By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Örenäs Castle
It started with love back in 1867, when the mansion Mariehild, named after a beloved wife, was constructed on the grounds in Glumslöv. 50 years later, Carl Tranchell had Örenäs Castle finished on the very same premises. “The location is definitely a unique feature,” Emelie Lööf, marketing coordinator at Örenäs Castle, says. “With its 115 hotel rooms, the castle lets people come together, have a great time and enjoy the surrounding nature.” Different package deals, such as wedding packages, are also available. “Weddings are very popular, with beautiful ceremonies on the lawn and the castle as the backdrop,” says Lööf. At Örenäs Castle, tasteful design and comfort blend to make
for a luxurious yet homely atmosphere. History can be encountered in the Carl T bar, named after the founder himself, as well as in the dining room, with its original floor imported from Italy. A short, few-minute stroll through the castle woods leads visitors to the charming beaches of Ålabodarna. Here, among
small fishing huts, adventurous guests may board the ferry and discover the small island of Ven by bike, and engage in activities such as whiskey tasting. With grand accommodation situated in idyllic nature, Örenäs Castle truly lives up to its slogan of being a historic meeting point for modern people.
Web: www.orenasslott.com Facebook: orenasslott Instagram: @orenasslott
A traditional welcome with modern comforts Whether it is visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, following in the footsteps of royalty, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings, Järvsöbaden has something for everyone. By Liz Longden | Photos: Järvsöbaden
That Järvsöbaden has a homely feel is hardly surprising. The hotel and conference centre has been run by the same family for 113 years – hotel manager Inger Ångström is married to Per Ångström, hotel director, head chef and great grandson of the founder of Järvsöbaden – and emanates a feeling of a bygone era. It lies in an area famed for its historic traditional farmhouses. ‘Hälsingegårdar’, as they are known, have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List and the nearest is within walking distance of the hotel. Those craving their modern creature comforts will not be disappointed either. The hotel also has its own golf course, heated outdoor pool, spa and bowling pitch, with a ski slope and exceptional mountain bike routes nearby. The restaurant, meanwhile, 64 | Issue 113 | June 2018
serves traditional Swedish food made using both local produce and vegetables grown in the hotel’s own garden. It is an enticing combination, which even some celebrities cannot resist. Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel, Astrid Lindgren and the late singing icon Barbro
‘Lil-Babs’ Svensson, who herself hailed from Järvsö, are among the guests to have enjoyed a stay at Järsobaden and have rooms named after them. “We have a lot of guests who come back again and again,” says Inger Ångström. “We aspire to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and want our guests to feel like they’re coming home when they’re here.
Web: www.jarvsobaden.se
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Hidden Gems and Romantic Getaway Experiences
A small boutique hotel with big ambitions The family-run Tällbergsgårdens Hotel is beautifully located in the woods of Dalarna county. With lake Siljan on one side and the rich forest on the other, guests have enjoyed the hospitality at this previous school building since the beginning of the 20th century. Today, this small boutique hotel in Sweden welcomes visitors from all over the world. By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Tällbergsgårdens Hotel
A small, family-run hotel with big ambitions – that is how current owner Jerk Åkerblad describes the establishment. “We are a small family business with a love of food at the heart of what we do,” he says.
out the year. However, most guests will eventually end up at the heart of Tällbergsgårdens Hotel – the renowned kitchen. While dining, guests can enjoy the open kitchen view and witness how local produce is turned into everything
from mouth-watering tasting menus to hearty breakfasts. “Everything is homemade, from the freshly baked bread to our sausages,” says Åkerblad. Simply put, Tällbergsgårdens Hotel offers a home away from home with all its comforts, bang in the middle of the Swedish nature. Web: www.tallbergsgarden.se Phone: +46 247 508 50 E-mail: info@tallbergsgarden.se
With only 33 rooms and a mantra of quality over quantity, guests can expect service out of the ordinary with a homely touch. “People can relax and feel at home here. Many of our visitors are also amazed by the calmness and the silence that the nature here offers,” Åkerblad explains. Panoramic views over Siljan and the sight of the noble mountains in the distance can be enjoyed from the hotel, as can outdoor tubs and scenic hiking trails. The area is also very popular among tourists from all over the world, and countless events are held throughIssue 113 | June 2018 | 65
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Scan Business Keynote 66 | Business Profiles 68 | Product of the Month 72 | Leadership Development and Executive Coaching in Norway 74 Conferences of the Month 78 | Business Column 82 | Business Calendar 82
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Re-fashion your business Modern business follows Moore’s law. Gordon Moore was co-founder of Intel and predicted in 1965 that the power of computer chips would double every 18 months. This means that computer power grows eight times over five years and 35 times over eight years. Bringing Moore’s law into business context indicates that one year in a corporate life in 2018 equals five years in 2013, or 35 years in 2010. Does this make sense? I think it does. The peer-to-peer money transfer company TransferWise was founded in 2011, and five years later, it ran ad campaigns revealing that they were eight times cheaper than traditional banks. Another example: as a fintech analyst compared the 14-year-old payment provider Alipay and the 327-year-old Barclays Bank, he concluded that Alipay’s employees were 35 times more efficient than Barclays’ staff. This is Moore’s business law in action! Companies have to change fast and furiously, which, honestly, they are not very good at. Everybody believes that changing is about getting new ideas – 66 | Issue 113 | June 2018
but it is not. Getting new ideas is easy, and implementing them is rather simple too. The difficult part is getting rid of the old ideas and restructuring what you have once created. The difference between newcomers who just had a bright idea and those who had one ten years ago is that the newcomers do not have anything to give up. They do not have hundreds or thousands of employees, branch networks and legacy systems that have taken huge investments to create.
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By Nils Elmark, Incepcion
signers abandon theirs four times a year. And if you ask all the fashionistas if it is not annoying that their designs are so short-lived, they will answer: on the contrary, that is the beauty of it. Work will never become boring if the world is always new.
But we must change the world and our businesses to stay in sync with Moore’s law. To do so, we must stop protecting what we have and embrace new ideas and trends. A couple of years ago, I met a banker who had just been to his first fashion show. “It was amazing,” he said, “so many new ideas. Imagine if banks could think in ‘collections’ like fashion companies!” I like his idea: we need to re-fashion business. As soon as we have created something, we have to re-create it again. Most executives cling to their models and products while fashion de-
Nils Elmark is a consulting futurist and the founder of Incepcion, a London-based consultancy that helps organisations develop new and braver dreams.
THE TALL SHIPS RACES Stavanger 2018
Design: bloomstavanger.no Foto/illustrasjon: Rita Lindås
26.-29. JULY MORE THAN 70 TALL SHIPS VISIT STAVANGER Save the date and join the Tall Ships Races 2018! Check out the exciting Cultural Program: tallships.no
#tallshipsstavanger
Scan Magazine | Business Profile | MASU Planning
Fanø Bad, in collaboration with Everyday Studio. Photo: Kirstine Autzen
Creating inclusive urban spaces In a city, people are constantly crossing each other’s paths, using the same spaces and living alongside each other. A well-functioning urban space is where you feel welcome, with a place to sit down and a variation of activities to challenge and inspire people of all ages. It is not about concentrating as many activities as possible into one space, but about knowing what is needed in any given place. Since 2007, MASU Planning has specialised in creating inclusive spaces.
we’re using or the way the space has to be taken care of,” explains Blomqvist. “In these aspects, our projects are planned to be classic and long-lasting, but to also include elements of surprise and playfulness. We love to work with
By Josefine Older Steffensen By night. Photo: Kirstine Autzen
MASU Planning was founded in Copenhagen by landscape architects Malin Blomqvist and Sune Oslev. Since then, they have opened an office in Helsinki, and they now work across the Nordic countries, focusing on urban spaces, city development, cultural institutions and residential and educational environments.
Recognising the needs of a space Each project comes with its own urban and cultural context. “The most successful projects are those that answer to the needs of a space – projects that recognise the distinctive character and qualities of a space and manage to develop them,” says Blomqvist. 68 | Issue 113 | June 2018
The context provides the backbone for the project, including ideas about materials as well as how to design the space to optimise the day-to-day use of it. “Our main aim is to create something that actually suits the space and community we’re designing for,” Blomqvist continues. “We want that to be the focus and our defining factor, rather than a particular style or trend.”
Robust and flexible Importantly, the spaces that MASU Planning creates are there to last. The projects are allowed to develop over time. “Working with the future in mind makes us think more about sustainable solutions, whether that’s in the materials
Scan Magazine | Business Profile | MASU Planning
classic materials like stone, brick and wood, but to also combine them in new and exciting ways,” she says.
Reviving history at Fanø bad MASU Planning was brought in to revitalise Fanø bad, a historic seaside town in Denmark. “We had a small budget for this project, so rather than create something big, we hoped to create a ripple effect by designing a main square that could inspire the local businesses to continue the development,” explains Blomqvist. It is fair to say that they succeeded in their endeavours. Local businesses started opening up their façades to the square, while the locals continued the paving to give the town a more coherent look. The project started with a comprehensive study of the cultural and historic context of the town. Although recent generations had made bad decisions in regards to materials and infrastructure, just below the surface there was a glamourous past. The remnants of a brick promenade became the starting point for the project, where materials such as oak and brick were used to withstand the harsh conditions by the sea.
When fairy tales become walls and hedges The new Hans Christian Andersen museum and fairytale garden in Odense
required some out-of-the-box thinking from MASU Planning, who wanted to extract the essence of the H.C. Andersen fairy tales and create a garden based on these themes. “We wanted the visitors to have their senses and imagination stimulated by wandering around the garden and exploring it with all senses,” says Blomqvist. The garden was created by using hedges that mimicked the walls inside the museum. Visitors go on a journey to explore the different atmospheres changing from each ‘room’ in the garden. The areas are defined by plants with different colours, textures, scents and shapes, composed to create a certain atmosphere – as in the Giant Garden, where you feel small, like Thumbelina.
A space to play
it all in one space rather than dividing it up.” The result was to create islands of non-figurative furniture that would stimulate the imagination of those using them, so that a group of tree trunks could be a magical forest and a set of asphalt hills a challenging skate park. “We want to have something that is fun to use, a space where people can join together or have a relaxing moment to themselves. We always try to create something that can be used in different ways and appeals to children as well as adults, and that will continue to do so for many years,” concludes Blomqvist.
Web: www.masuplanning.com
Time to chill. Photo: MASU Planning
When a whole community – including a daycare centre, two schools as well as the local culture and sport centre – all use the same area for relaxation and play, it can be difficult to fit everyone in. “It’s an incredibly diverse group of people who use the space at Opinmäki campus, so we had to ensure that, once the school day ended, hobby communities could take over,” says Blomqvist. “We wanted a space that could challenge everyone from the smallest child to the oldest adult, but we wanted to keep
Aerial view of the new Hans Christian Andersen museum and fairytale garden in Odense, made in collaboration with Cornelius Vöge and Kengo Kuma and Associates. Photo: KKAA-MASU
Photo: MASU Planning
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 69
Scan Magazine | Business Profile | TENTE A/S Original
Reinvented
The future
With features such as safety brakes, noise reduction and electrical wheels, TENTE is making life safer and more pleasant for employees and staff at hospitals all over the world.
Reinventing the wheel The invention of the wheel might have been some time ago, but TENTE keeps it rolling. With special ergonomic, hygienic and acoustic features, TENTE’s wheels make life safer, quieter and less straining for staff and patients at hospitals all over the world.
by up to 90 per cent, and that will make a very positive impact on how the hospital environment is experienced by both patients and staff,” stresses Christensen.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: TENTE
Hospital beds, food trolleys, and IV poles – almost everything in a hospital is on wheels, and while most people might not think about it, the quality of the wheels can make a huge difference to the people working with and around them. Noise pollution, the spread of bacteria and work injuries can all result from a less than well-rounded wheel concept. Working with and talking to employees at hospitals, TENTE in Hasselager, a subdivision of the German Tente-Rollen GmbH, has developed a number of special features for their wheels. Bo Christensen of TENTE explains: “We spend a lot of time talking to hospital staff about the challenges they experience in their everyday work. This approach has, among other things, resulted in our safety wheel, which helps prevent accidents and work injuries, and our electrical wheel, which spares staff the physical strain of pushing heavy beds and equipment.” 70 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Pulling up to one tonne, the electrical wheels lighten the burden of employees significantly, while the Linea safety wheel allows operators to brake with an electrical hand-operated brake. The wheels are also easily incorporated with the robot technologies increasingly used in hospitals.
Preventing the spread of bacteria One of the greatest issues affecting hospitals today is the spread of bacteria, and the wheels rolling around halls and operation theatres can aggravate the problem. To prevent this, TENTE’s wheels are made entirely in a synthetic material that gathers fewer bacteria and is easier to clean than metal. Another issue often negatively affecting hospitals is noise, and for this reason TENTE offers wheels specifically adapted to different types of surfaces. “The right wheels can make a huge difference; a food trolley, for instance, can be incredibly noisy, but with our wheels, that noise can be reduced
Facts: TENTE manufactures wheels with a load capacity of five kilogrammes to 12 tonnes. The wheels are compatible with hospital beds, robots, trolleys and more. TENTE supplies products to various sectors.
Web: www.tente.com
Discover the scenic mountain walks in Høvringen
w w w. h ov r i n g e n f j e l l s t u e . n o
Scan Magazine | Product of the Month | Denmark
Left: Apart from looking like something out of a James Bond film, the firming serum capsules are a natural, well-documented, effective alternative to Botox. Serum is the main ingredient of most night creams. Right: One of Søgaard’s favourite products is the fragrance-free peel mask, which helps smooth the skin and lessen the appearance of wrinkles.
Ecooking to keep the world good-looking When Tina Søgaard began putting together various skincare ingredients to make a lotion for herself in her kitchen one night in late 2015, little did she suspect that her subsequent output would be well underway to reaching 30 countries by 2022. Despite its humble beginnings, Søgaard’s product range Ecooking has proven hugely popular thanks to its mild, non-allergenic properties, honest and natural ingredients and, of course, its obvious effects on the skin. By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Ecooking
Søgaard is no stranger to the skincare business. Though she was trained as a typographer, she was forced to give up her job following a car crash in her late 20s. Soon afterwards, however, her unusually well-developed sense of smell got her a job at a cosmetics manufacturer. “I’d always been able to distinguish between different smells very easily, which meant I had a natural interest in the beauty industry,” she explains, “but I didn’t realise 72 | Issue 113 | June 2018
I could turn that into a career at first.” In 2001, she opened House of Cosmetics, the private-label company behind the recipes of many ‘own brands’ and celebrity lines of cosmetics and beauty products. “The skin is our largest organ. Wear and tear as well as trauma can really manifest itself in the skin, so it’s important we take care of it,” she says. The residual trauma of her own accident coupled with
sudden, significant weight loss took their toll. “For me, my face became increasingly grey and tired-looking, particularly after the weight loss. So I brought home all the ingredients from work I thought would help the most without considering cost or anything other than their effectiveness. Then I experimented until I found the ideal solution for my skin.”
Word of mouth Friends started noticing Søgaard’s invigorated skin, and she was soon handing out samples and finding solutions for her friends’ own problems as well as acne- laden teenagers. “It wasn’t anything like a brand back then; I wasn’t looking to sell at all,” she says. “I was cooking up these lotions, scrubs and oils and throwing them in Tupperware boxes, jam jars
Scan Magazine | Product of the Month | Denmark
and even schnapps glasses every once in a while. Eventually, someone with a shop approached me and asked if they could have 25 of each product. I had to scramble to find more professional-looking containers, labels and a name, and it really took off from there.” The name Ecooking came about as an amalgamation of ‘ecological’ and ‘cooking’, referring to the simple organic ingredients that all the products are made of and the company’s humble start in Søgaard’s kitchen. “It’s a really fun but occasionally infuriating process to come up with recipes that work. It’s like picturing these perfect macarons and having to find out the recipe by trial and error, but when you succeed, it’s just the best – especially when other people love them too.”
Honest ingredients Ecooking may have moved out of Søgaard’s kitchen and into its own little local laboratory, but the label stays true to its origins. Most of the Ecooking products are organ-
ic, many are vegan and some are so pure that they are actually edible – marked on the container with a cute little cooking pot. Most importantly, each product is carefully and clearly labelled with the common names of ingredients and their main properties. The website includes tips for the use and application of each individual product, such as how to avoid further drying out skin, which skin types suit which products, and even godsends like how to avoid ingrown hair when shaving. “My mum used to call me up to ask me to explain ingredients to her. I know we all hate it when a beauty product has a list of ingredients half a kilometre long and written in something as interpretable as Martian,” Søgaard says. “For people with allergies, that kind of thing can be directly dangerous too. And we clearly label our fragrance-free and anti-allergenic products so that they’re easy to find.” Søgaard’s edible multi-oil and face scrub won the Allergy Award in 2017 and
2018 respectively. Each product is ethically produced in Denmark with consideration for the environment and no animal testing, and the products contain no parabens or artificial dyes. They are sold at affordable prices so that most people can enjoy the benefits of good, healthy-looking and healthy skin. Tina’s top tips for healthy skin: - Cleansing your skin and moisturising it regularly is the most important thing you can do. - Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and helps skin cling on to moisture, slowing down ageing of the skin and keeping it nice and healthy. This can be a good ingredient to look for in skincare products.
Web: www.ecooking.dk Facebook: ecooking Instagram: @ecooking
Tina Søgaard.
Face scrub.
Face cream, Men’s range.
Cleansing gel.
Multi oil.
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 73
e:
IP ND G H S T A IN in R N H M DE ME OAC A Y LE LOP E C WA VE UTIV NOR E D EC IN EX m he
iT
A professional partner for the development of project expertise Competence in project work is an essential part of the development of any company. Projects are ultimately responsible for turning any organisation’s need or idea into a specific result. Holte Academy offer their extensive experience in helping companies grow their project management and leadership skills. By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Holte Academy
Businesses always need to stay sharp and be able to handle changes, whether due to internal needs or external pressure. The management must also be able to lead these processes of change. When the strategies and objectives of a business demand that the organisation performs in new ways, organising the work as a project is often beneficial. For this purpose, Holte Academy is a key player. “Our core competence is to help individuals and businesses work smarter through new insights and increased competence within the project subject,” says 74 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Kerstin Wenzel, CEO, coach and trainer at Holte Academy. “A systematic and continuous development of the company’s expertise is paramount. When projects are implemented, many resources are involved, and ultimately it affects the company in a profound way. Businesses can be negatively affected in countless ways if the basic project understanding is poor and the expectations and skills of the people involved are not balanced. It is important to ensure that the company’s employees have profound project management skills to deliver in line with the management’s expectations, and to re-
alise the desired benefits to achieve the desired effect. Companies who manage their projects well will experience a better outcome in reaching the company’s strategic goals.”
Helping companies succeed in projects – through best-practice training Increased competence within the project subject is an investment in the individual employee and the foundation for the future of the business. “In order to succeed in project work, the key persons within and outside the organisation must have the necessary skills,” says Wenzel. “The money invested in boosting skills is nothing compared to the potential losses if projects fail again and again. We want to help companies succeed. It’s important to get the level of ambition right, and that you have a step-by-step approach to increasing project competence in the company.
Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Leadership Development and Executive Coaching in Norway
Here, Holte Academy can assist on all levels: from establishing a shared understanding of the fundamentals of project work and vocabulary amongst employees involved in a company’s projects, to offering advanced courses on topics such as project governance, managing benefits and management of project portfolios. The latter are courses that have more of a strategic dimension on a business level.” Holte Academy delivers high-quality courses and has built up a network of loyal, returning customers. They have assisted companies with both advisory services and training courses within project management. Team and leadership development have also been central; it is crucial that everyone who works on a project has the correct competence and understands the model. This may remove unnecessary obstacles and misunderstandings, and will make a good foundation for more successful projects. Every individual in the team works the same way, has the same conceptual approach, and shares a common foundation through learning. This is a good starting point for success.
feeling of being better equipped to manage and master their project work.”
A ‘Project Week’ to develop project skills quickly The course programme ‘Prosjektuka’ (Project Week) takes place in April and November each year. This is a public course programme of eight different courses offered to companies and individuals who wish to acquire new knowledge within the project subject through one or more intensive one-day courses in a week. The week is composed of courses that provide both theoretical and practical insights into how to work smarter and succeed in project work. There are courses for both beginners and more experienced project managers. Many companies choose to send several employees who tend to spread over several courses. The week can also make a useful supplement for new employees who need to gain basic insight into the subject of project work.
The next ‘Prosjektuka’ course programme will be held 5-8 November. You can see the course programme and read more at www.prosjektuka.no Holte Academy: - Based in central Oslo, Norway. - Provides public courses and certifications in the subject of project work at all levels. - Provides project competence programmes and corporate internships. - Customises courses for business needs. - Offers facilitation of workshops and lectures. - Offers team and management development within the project team.
Web: www.holteacademy.no
“We also provide project competence programmes with several course modules for both small and large companies,” Wenzel adds. “We map the needs of the company and assemble the right building blocks. We are also a provider of large training programmes. We call them Project Schools, and they often last several years.” Examples of customers are Norwegian companies BaneNor, Avinor, Instalco, and various municipalities. The role of a project manager is complex, and it requires the individual undertaking it to master several skills. In addition to being capable of managing a project as a working method, a project manager needs to have interpersonal skills, know how to create strong and efficient teams, and be a good communicator. Holte Academy offers courses and certifications at all levels within the subject. Many choose to be certified within the PRINCE2® method. “We take great pride in our PRINCE2® certification courses,” says Wenzel, “We aim to deliver quality. We want the individual to experience a
PRINCE2® is a registered trade mark of AXELOS Limited, used under permission of AXELOS Limited. All rights reserved.
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 75
Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Leadership Development and Executive Coaching in Norway
Cris Beswick from LCIBS.
Gareth Bullen from LCIBS.
iProsess CEO Tor Berntsen.
Tor Berntsen in Dubai.
The secret to the leadership style of the future lies in Norway In 2016, Tor Berntsen got a seemingly impossible task: to talk about ‘management in the future’ in Dubai. Like the rest of us, however, Berntsen did not know what the future holds, so he decided to talk about what he knows best: Norwegian management style.
learning is, according to Berntsen, top sound and video quality, which gives a sense of closeness without being in the same room.
By Synne Johnsson | Photos: iProsess
“Of course, we must meet physically occasionally, but then we do not exchange information. We build relationships, solve complex problems and develop leadership skills,” he says. “I had a meeting with some international top executives in May and asked them about what was special about top management today. A leader of a large telecom company responded immediately: culture. We must build culture that addresses both changes and risks.”
“The task was to me rather impossible, especially as I didn’t really know the culture in Dubai. I thought that the Scandinavian management style might be the closest thing to management of the future, so that’s what I decided to talk about,” says Berntsen. The presentation, focusing on brain power versus muscle power, hit home and ended with a standing ovation and an interesting collaborator. After his successful presentation in Dubai, the London College of International Business (LCIBS) approached Berntsen and his company iProsess, instigating the start of an adventurous collaboration. “It is intriguing, because small companies like iProsess don’t usually get these types of collaborations,” says Berntsen. Together, they are now helping managers to transform organisations so that 76 | Issue 113 | June 2018
they can create possibilities in a global, complex, ever-changing world. They offer consulting and education designed for this century and are striving to be the best in the world in distance learning, using the hottest, most advanced equipment and purpose-designed venues. “I think that with LCIBS we can offer unique guidance of high quality on an international level,” Berntsen explains. “Together, we can educate leaders who tackle changes and complex issues. And best of all: now they can also get credits,” he smiles. Distance learning gives iProsess and LCIBS completely unique possibilities. Berntsen has worked as a consultant for three CEOs: one in Dubai, one in Greece and one in South Africa – all on the same day. The secret to successful distance
That statement sums up much of what iProsess does, helping top executives with change management and innovation cultures. They do this with their international partners in order to offer solid research and expertise in addition to 15 years of experience in the consulting industry.
Web: www.iprosess.no
Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Leadership Development and Executive Coaching in Norway
Jon Erik Børresen.
Power, courage and cooperation Specialising in helping clients create their strategy by making leader and employer development a part of their working day, Alaric consultation agency believes they have cracked the code on how to help businesses adapt to the new era. Their process design in collaboration with their clients, as well as comprehensive digital support, is key to their success. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Alaric
“For us, Alaric means power, courage and cooperation. We consider all people in organisations as leaders, because management is far too important to be left to managers alone,” says specialist in organisational psychology, Jon Erik Børresen. With an extensive background in leadership, Børresen has worked with over 300 management teams at various levels in the private sector. In 2016, he started up the Oslo-based company Alaric with Jørn Martin Unneland and Egil Rasmussen. “We also have a large, Nordic network of consultants that we use on our projects, which means that we cover a wide range of expertise across the field,” Børresen explains.
tating processes that create and enable participation. “Our aim is to involve the people who work in a company in working out challenges and dilemmas together. As a psychologist, my concern is to make sure that everyone in the organisation is actively taking part and feeling ownership of the strategy,” says Børresen. He further believes that leaders need to show courage by making this involvement possible, while identifying a big shift in today’s organisations. “Employees often have more knowledge and higher education than they did 20 years ago. It is therefore very unwise of managers not to take advantage of all this competence that already exists within their team.”
Trust and good relationships are the solution to better cooperation and results, something the Norwegian consulting agency strives to make happen by facili-
Unique solutions Alaric helps businesses in Scandinavia to learn, develop and grow by offering unique solutions tailored to their specific
need. “We work very closely with the client, and everything is designed with them based on the facilitation process,” says Børresen, adding: “An important element we emphasise is offering digital support for managers and teams, helping them to focus while saving on consulting work and keeping costs low.” Børresen concludes: “The company name itself comes from the successful Alaric, who conquered Rome. We help organisations, in line with Alaric’s ability, to create engagement and develop good cooperation, so that the power he had can be found in everyone.”
Web: www.alaric.no Facebook: alaricinfo
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 77
Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Denmark
Conference of the Month, Denmark
A venue for every occasion Located 20 minutes from Billund Airport, in the beautiful valley of Ådal by Vejle in Denmark, Vingsted Hotel and Conference Centre provides its guests with much more than just the basics, no matter the reason for their visit. “We like to think we’re Denmark’s most active hotel and conference centre,” says head of sales and marketing, Brian Runge. “We have 18 hectares of land and 23,000 square metres of inside space, and we know what to do with it.” By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Vingsted Hotel and Conference Centre
In the 1930s, Vingsted became the home of the gymnastics, rifle and athletics association, and the centre’s close ties to sports and entertainment have continued through the decades. Today, Vingsted’s guests can access both indoor and outdoor shooting ranges, indoor courts and equipment for most popular sports and games, as well as fishing locations and hiking trails. Bikes are available and even activities such as zip-wire usage, river-crossing commando crawls and single-combat training with professional instructors can be arranged. “We’re very proud of the Ådal area,” says Runge. “We know that meetings and conferences aren’t always what you want to be doing on a sunny day, so we draw in the beautiful natural surroundings through big windows, our decorations and a bit of 78 | Issue 113 | June 2018
playfulness – it boosts concentration and enthusiasm to have easy access to a bit of fun and games in the breaks or evenings.” Vingsted’s catering also keeps spirits high: the busy workers in the excellent restaurant produce their own honey and make almost everything else from scratch, working with local farmers and producers to source everything from venison to organic ice cream to get the optimal flavours for each season. Hosting more than 100,000 visitors every year, Vingsted has more than 500 beds available, accommodating families as well as business guests. The four-star conference centre is one of the Danish state’s public procurement partners – a list of top conference centres across Denmark that state institutions use, which provide
high-quality equipment, a good working environment and personable, flexible arrangements at reasonable prices. “We have about 40 years of experience with events of every shape and size, from private celebrations to international conferences,” says Runge. “We have more than 30 smaller event rooms to play around with. Our two large halls can easily hold 1,500 people, and we’re adding a third that can take 1,000 more.” It looks like Vingsted Hotel and Conference Centre needs the extra space – more than 50 per cent of their visitors book again.
Web: www.vingsted.dk Facebook: vingstedhotelogkonferencecenter
Honest and straightforward As a modern brasserie specialized in fresh cooking, Fish & Cow create classic dishes in a new way. Of course food based on fish and cow are served, but not exclusively. The menu also has many dishes from everything in between – provided the ingredients are perfect. The food served is honest and straightforward. It tastes like it should taste, and if you order fish, you will recognize that it is fish on your plate. We have a rich à la car te menu, bar menu and daily lunch menu. The menus are constantly updated in accordance with seasonal ingredients and flavours from our region. www.fishandcow.no E: post@fishandcow.no Torgterassen, Skagen 3 PB 106, 4001 Stavanger T: 51 50 50 50
Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Finland
Conference of the Month, Finland
A hidden gem by the sea – on the edge of nature but near the city If you are looking for the complete set – a hotel with sea views and a relaxing atmosphere, while being surrounded by nature but still close to the city – Hotel Rantapuisto just might be the perfect spot for you. Located in eastern Helsinki, the hotel is a favourite among many families and business clients alike. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Hotel Rantapuisto
The hotel’s name, translating as ‘beach park’, describes the surroundings perfectly. Tucked away among tall pine trees, and with a pier leading up to a sandy beach, you would not guess that Hotel Rantapuisto is only a short metro ride away from the centre of Helsinki. Ideal for families and business guests alike, the hotel has 74 rooms, which are either forest-themed or come with a sea view. “The sea is visible throughout our hotel grounds, and there is a path leading up to the seashore and a sandy beach,” says 80 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Riitta Liikamaa, Hotel Rantapuisto’s general manager. “We truly are in the midst of nature here: there are foxes, rabbits and various bird species that occasionally drop by,” she continues. The building, originally built as a training centre for a large bank, was designed by an architect couple, Ragnar and Martta Ypyä. In the 1920s, Ragnar Ypyä worked in the architecture office of Alvar Aalto, one of Finland’s most notable designers and architects, and the influences from
that era are visible in the hotel’s overall atmosphere and design details. Comprising several wings and atriums, the building masterfully blends Finnish and Nordic design with the surrounding nature. “The hotel’s interior is a real work of art, and an important part of Finnish design and architectural history. We have kept many of the original lamps, fireplaces and roof structures, adding to the hotel’s unique atmosphere,” says Liikamaa.
Catering to every kind of event Hotel Rantapuisto’s great pride is its auditorium, which holds up to 300 people. The hotel also has 15 meeting rooms. “Whether it’s just one speaker, a panel discussion, a larger group of performers or singing rehearsals, the stage can be
Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Finland
extended as required and is clearly visible from every seat. We also offer special meeting packages to ensure our guests’ event goes as smoothly as possible,” the general manager continues. The bright and well-lit auditorium is fitted with all necessary equipment, including a wireless file-sharing system for presenters, a top-quality sound system and even a grand piano. It also has its own entrance and cloakroom. “We also host a number of private events such as weddings, memorial services and other get-togethers,” says Liikamaa. In addition, the hotel has three restaurants, serving a range of Finnish and Nordic seasonal foods. Restaurant Rantapuisto is a spacious and airy 120seat venue with big windows opening
up to a beautiful view over the Baltic Sea, as well as a terrace that is open throughout the summer season. “Our restaurant’s à la carte menu is carefully crafted to offer Finnish food with ingredients from small local producers and farms. We collect the herbs used in our dishes straight from our own herb garden,” Liikamaa explains.
Team building and family days out There are several activities available for guests, ranging from bicycles that are free to use for all guests, to rowing and various escape rooms, ideal for team-building days. The hotel’s seashore sauna sadly burned down last year, but a new one is set to open soon. “We really have everything here, and we can cater to all kinds of guests:
from family holidays to activity-packed team-building days,” says Liikamaa. Owing to the hotel’s warm atmosphere and welcoming staff, many of its guests return year after year. “We focus on offering a warm and homely service to all our guests, and I am very proud of my team here. Our hotel is a real hidden gem: we are so close to the city centre, yet we are deep in the forest, and by the sea. We take pride in providing excellent customer service and we want all our guests to have a wonderfully memorable stay,” Liikamaa concludes.
Web: www.rantapuisto.fi Facebook: HotelRantapuisto
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 81
Scan Magazine | Business | Column / Calendar
Please talk to me I was wondering what happened to the nasty kids at my old school – the bully, the lout, the sadist. Are they managers now, submitting their staff to the same pain they once inflicted on smaller boys? This musing followed my recent audit of the internal communications of an SME. The HR manager had asked for some training, but the budget was limited so I suggested a consultation exercise instead. 36 middle managers and supervisors attended one of six 90-minute meetings to discuss their communication challenges. I then presented a report to the owners. Confidentiality and anonymity were guaranteed throughout. The same issues came up in every meeting – lack of information downward and across the organisation, and a feeling of not being listened to. It emerged that the management committee no longer met because of a breakdown in relationships. This was attributed by many to one particular manager, who opted out of the exercise.
By Steve Flinders
One toxic manager can disrupt an entire organisation and sour its communication culture. Mr X was said to be a racist, and a micro-megalomaniac who insisted that all communication to his team went through him. He stayed in place, it was said, because he had personal leverage over one of the owners. So in this business, a crucial conduit – channelling communication up, down and across the organisation – did not exist. Departments had become silos; senior management seemed remote and its decisions incomprehensible. The exercise reminded of some basic questions all managers can ask themselves about their communication: 1. How much time do you spend telling people what to do, and how much time asking? Is the balance right? 2. Do you always give a reason when you tell or ask someone to do something? You should.
Business Calendar
3. How much time do you actually spend talking to your people? 50 per cent is a good figure, according to a German consultant I know and trust. Try it. It is possible. Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com.
By Sanne Wass | Photo: DUCC
Scandinavian business events you do not want to miss this month Putting GDPR into practice The deadline for complying with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has passed, but what now? Businesses have already put much time and effort into planning for the new rules, but for many firms this is just the beginning. This breakfast briefing, organised with the Danish-UK Association and cyber security experts at CyNation, will cover the commercial and legal considerations around GDPR and the critical changes that need to be made to be compliant. Date: 19 June 2018, 8-10am Venue: Royds Withy King, 69 Carter Lane, London EC4V 5EQ www.ducc.co.uk
The Swedish elections – investor opportunities and risks Organised by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK, this breakfast meeting will focus on the upcoming Swedish election and the opportunities and risks it could bring for private investors. The event’s speaker, Henrik 82 | Issue 113 | June 2018
von Sydow, business intelligence strategist at Carnegie Private Banking and previously chairman of the Swedish parliamentary committee on taxation, will discuss the investment and tax climate in Sweden and what scenarios investors should be prepared for. Date: 20 June 2018, 8-10am Venue: Carnegie Investment Bank, 26 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DS www.scc.org.uk
An evening with the Norwegian ambassador The Fabian International Policy Group is hosting an event with the Norwegian ambassador Mona Juul, one of Norway’s top diplomats, who has also previously served as her country’s deputy ambassador to the UN. The event will give attendees an opportunity to discuss the UK/Norwegian relationship and Brexit among other topics, and learn from a highly accomplished and skilled diplomat. Date: 26 June 2018, 6.30-9pm Venue: TBA, Belgravia, London www.eventbrite.co.uk
Danish-UK Association’s summer reception The annual summer reception is one of the Danish-UK Association’s main events. Hosted this year on the terrace at the House of Lords – one of the most iconic buildings in the world – it is a unique opportunity for members to bring clients and guests to an exclusive networking evening. Speaking at the event are the Baroness Mcintosh of Pickering and Niels Ladefoged, the association’s chairman. Date: 4 July 2018, 6.30-9pm Venue: Cholmondeley Room and Terrace, House of Lords, London SW1A 0PW www.ducc.co.uk
Oslo’s trendy waterside area Aker Brygge carries exciting influences from Asia. Informal yet vibrant, ASIA Aker Brygge is a tasty mix of modern street food and traditional Asian dishes. With his creative ideas and exotic avours, head chef Karl MacEwan has established this colourful treasure on the city’s food map, with delicious vegan options. The well-balanced menu is a cross-over between the cuisines of several countries, with plenty of fresh ingredients and exotic flavours. The courses are served as sharing sizes so that guests can try a little of everything, and you can even get all their yummy dishes as take away! Don’t miss out on sipping a refreshing cocktail at Asia’s natural meeting point, their lively bar Pop-in.
Asia Aker brygge
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Stranden 1, 0250 Oslo
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Asiaakerbrygge.no
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Instagram: @asiaoslo
Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden
Built in 1829, Hotell Continental du Sud sits resplendent in the heart of Ystad.
Hotel of the Month, Sweden
A historic jewel in the centre of Ystad Sweden’s oldest hotel sits in one of Skåne’s most beautiful cities. Now Hotell Continental du Sud has undergone a careful and loving renovation to restore it to its original splendour and bring its facilities up to the very highest contemporary standards. By Liz Longden | Photos: Sting reklam
First opened in 1829, Hotell Continental du Sud is an elegant gem of a building, located in the heart of Ystad. Just a stone’s throw from the city’s historic port, it has been an important meeting point for nearly 200 years, with patrons including cultural icons both real and imagined – the hotel restaurant features in the books of Henning Mankell as a favourite haunt of his flawed hero Kurt Wallander. Little wonder then, that co-owner Jenny Nilsson talks about the building having a unique atmosphere. “The feeling you get when you come in through those doors is 84 | Issue 113 | June 2018
kind of special,” she says. “It’s hard to put your finger on it, but it’s very calming, like a sense of harmony. You can feel the history in the walls.” Nilsson and her partner, Martin Jönsson, bought and took over the hotel in December 2014, with Nilsson taking on the role of hotel manager. Together, the couple has lovingly renovated the grand old building, restoring it to its former glory by putting back original features, while also updating its facilities with technology such as fast Wi-Fi and air conditioning in all rooms.
They have also added a new restaurant, which includes an in-house bakery and pastry kitchen, serving a gourmet menu created from the local region’s finest ingredients in the hotel’s sumptuous dining room. Indeed, exciting and contemporary cuisine enjoyed in the splendorous surroundings of days gone, arguably sums up Nilsson and Jönsson’s philosophy in a nutshell. “The hotel is obviously a huge part of the city’s heritage, and we’re very aware of that. So we very much want to preserve that as best we can, while also offering something that meets the highest expectations of our guests today,” says Nilsson.
Location, location, location In the early 19th century, Ystad harbour was Sweden’s principal port for travel to Europe, and Hôtel du Sud, as it was
Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden
originally named, was built to meet the needs of these international travellers. It is thanks to this historic role that the hotel today occupies such a prime location – directly opposite the train station and just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s sights and shops, with the added convenience of its own car park. It makes the perfect base for anyone wanting to explore Ystad’s medieval streets, monastery, museums or theatre. The hotel also offers a treat for golf lovers, with a package deal combining a night’s stay and a three-course meal and hearty breakfast with access to southern Skåne’s three golf courses at Ystad, Tomelilla and Abbekås. Even for those keen to venture a little further afield, it is hard to find a better starting point. The buzz and sights of Malmö and Copenhagen, the picturesque island of Bornholm and the renowned beauty of
the Österlen countryside are all within easy reach for day-trippers. “We’re a bit spoilt here, especially in the summer,” Jönsson agrees.
Perfect setting for a perfect meeting Hotell Continental du Sud’s central location also makes it an ideal meeting point, whether it be for business, special occasions, or just for pleasure. It goes without saying that, with its original marble, oak floors and elegant chandeliers, the historic building makes a breathtaking setting for weddings and anniversaries, while for conferences, the hotel offers the latest technology, a choice of rooms to suit every mood and occasion, and gourmet cuisine as standard. Nilsson adds that the team prides itself on its personalised service and can arrange for a wide variety of team-building and cultural activities for conference delegates.
“There’s nothing we can’t sort out,” she says. “Whatever our guests want, whether that’s hiring a bus and driving around Österlen or something else, we can probably do it.” The hotel even has a renowned on-site art gallery, enabling delegates to combine fine dining with the appreciation of fine art. But a great meeting can also be about simply relaxing with good company in a beautiful setting, and a little sunshine certainly does no harm either, which is why the hotel opens up its restaurant with a laid-back but stylish outdoor area in the summer. Open every day from 12 noon until late, it is the perfect way to continue nearly 200 years of tradition.
Web: www.hotellcontinental.se
Top left and middle: All the hotel’s rooms have been lovingly renovated in classical style, but with contemporary comforts. Bottom left: The hotel prides itself on crafting its gourmet menu from locally sourced food. Right: With its timeless, classical beauty, Hotell Continental du Sud makes a perfect venue for conferences and special occasions.
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 85
Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway
Hotel of the Month, Norway
Historic manor in a peaceful setting A stay at Losby Gods is like a journey back in time and through age-old Norwegian traditions. In the midst of beautiful nature, this historic manor has nestled itself in a calm and harmonic setting. Through the decades, kings, noblemen and businessmen have discussed business and trade here, and although the surroundings have not changed much, the mansion itself has been restored and renovated into a modern hotel and a fully equipped conference centre, still in keeping with the original charm it exuded back in 1850. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Losby Gods
Losby Gods is a large country estate in Akershus, steeped in over 150 years of history, elegance and tradition. Located in the heart of the countryside, where rustic charm meets the dark mystique of the forest, this manor and its historical surroundings is an ideal location for conferences – a magical and unique backdrop where everything is set for an efficient and productive working environment.
are very proud of the history here at Losby Gods, and we are always keen for our guests to discover it when they visit,” says hotel director Heidi Fjellheim. She offers guests the option to take a historical tour to learn more about the remarkable country estate and its traditions going back to the 19th century. “We always say that it is historical, but not old-fashioned.”
The mansion was empty for around 40 years before it opened as a hotel, conference centre and golf resort in 1999. “We
A unique aspect in terms of location is the fact that Losby Gods is set quietly in idyllic nature, while still being only 15 minutes
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Optimal conference facilities
from Oslo city centre. “It is so easy to get here. We are situated right between Oslo and Gardermoen airport, so no need to go via the busy capital,” Fjellheim explains, adding: “Our guests always feel like they are far away even though they didn’t have to travel for very long. They can relax and unwind in calm settings without the stress of a long journey.” A modern conference centre, the manor has 16 different meeting rooms available, with the capacity to accommodate everything from large groups of 200 participants to smaller meetings of just two people. All rooms boast modern equipment and technology, while offering plenty of light and beautiful views through windows facing the surrounding nature. In addition, the hotel has 70 modern hotel rooms with traces of the past for guests to unwind in. New this year is the opening of a 500-square-metre exclusive bar area in the basement, with
Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway
a fantastic hidden room behind an old bookcase – excellent for meetings.
Experience is key The hotel’s own restaurant consists of four dining lounges and a wine cellar. Each lounge area is decorated according to the characteristic manor house style, with an intimate atmosphere, and all are used for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as for banquets. Here, you can enjoy traditional Nordic cuisine or enjoy a Norwegian waffle and a coffee while soaking up the ambiance. “It is so important to bring food traditions from Losby forward with great dining experiences that tell a story. Our chefs still use the original cookbooks used by the chef who worked here in 1932 as inspiration when they create new dishes,” says Fjellheim.
Losby Gods is known for being one of Norway’s best golf facilities. On the premises, you can play a round of golf on two separate courses: Østmork, the 18-hole championship course, and Vestmork, the nine-hole course, designed by the renowned golf course architect Peter Nordwall. Inside, there is a stateof-the-art golf centre with simulators, ensuring that it is possible to play all year round. “Many companies choose to play golf as it’s a great team-building exercise. We help to set up training as well as challenges and games to make sure that everyone enjoys themselves, no matter if they have played before or not,” says Fjellheim. With numerous other activities available both inside and around the manor, there is something for everyone to engage
Photo: Stine M. Eid
Losby Gods offers guests plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. Photo: Nina Børnich
in, no matter the season. You can enjoy wine tasting, go on a cycling adventure in the area, or simply take a walk in the fresh air to take in the historical surroundings. “A popular activity we offer is Murder at the Mansion, a murder-mystery dinner party hosted in the hotel restaurant as a way to have fun after a busy day,” says Fjellheim. “For us, it is about the total experience, making sure we assist and help with everything needed for an unforgettable stay. You will not have to do anything – just arrive and we will take care of the rest.” Location: Losbyveien 270, 1475 Finstadjordet, Norway Web: www.losbygods.no Facebook: losbygods Instagram: @losbygods
Photo: Stine M. Eid
Golfers in the idyllic settings at one of Norway’s best golf facilities. Photo: Turid Horgtun
A brand-new fitness room was opened earlier this year. Photo: Heidi Elisabeth Fjellheim
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Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Finland
Right: Hotel Haaga is also saving nature. The sinks are made from 100 per cent biodegradable wood.
Hotel of the Month, Finland
Wake up to bird song Where else can you find a hotel situated in the middle of the capital yet next to a forest, except in Helsinki? The reinvented Hotel Haaga offers a comprehensive mindand-body wellbeing experience, whether you are travelling for leisure or looking for a new way to host a business meeting. By Anne Koski-Wood | Photos: Aleksei Sarpaneva
Imagine waking up in the city, to the sight of trees and sky. Hotel Haaga makes it possible. The surrounding nature is present in everything the hotel has to offer. It manifests itself on the restaurant menu, which offers organic food and locally sourced fish and meat, as well as in the interior theme experienced in the newly refurbished rooms, which have been decorated using environmentally friendly materials. But Hotel Haaga is not just about great rooms and good food. It also offers a long list of different exercise options. The guests have access to the gym, a swimming pool and a Finnish sauna and can take part in group exercise classes such as yoga or Aqua Zumba®. “Our wellness studio is one of the best equipped in town,” says Päivi Laine, hotel manager. 88 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Hotel Haaga also provides bicycles and maps for those wanting to explore the Central Park and enjoy the fresh air.
Business can be leisure too Work meetings can be a real bore with only coffee and sandwiches to get you through the agenda. However, at Hotel Haaga you can have your meetings tailored the ‘hygge’ way, starting with a
Nordic breakfast followed by a green smoothie and a healthy, light lunch to provide long-lasting energy. Instead of draining people, the emphasis is on fuelling them in a stress-free environment, because a happy mind gets great results. This year, Hotel Haaga received the Loved by Guests Award. “We welcome everybody but treat each customer individually and hope they feel at home,” Laine smiles.
Web: www.hotelhaaga.fi Facebook: HotelHaaga Instagram: @hotelhaaga
Left: Laps of luxury. The Haaga Hotel has the longest hotel swimming pool in Helsinki.
Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden
Restaurant of the Month , Sweden
The Lux food experience Try seasonal local produce with a spectacular waterfront view at Lux Dag för Dag, get fresh seafood over the counter at B.A.R. or check out gastro bar Penny & Bill with a fusion of food and cocktails. By Malin Norman | Photos: Morgan Ekner
The Lux family of restaurants in Stockholm has something for everyone. Regardless of venue, the talented team of chefs works with high-quality Swedish produce at a fair price, making them all attractive choices for foodies. In an old factory building right by the waterfront on Lilla Essingen, Lux Dag för Dag (meaning day by day) certainly has a fantastic location, but the bistro-style restaurant also serves great Swedish cuisine. Every day, creative leader Henrik Norström and his team create a menu based on the products of the day, sourced from the region. “Our guests at Lux will experience Swedish produce at its very best,” says Norström. “We have a background in fine dining and want to share our talent and experience with more people, but in a simpler way. Celebrating our 15th anniversary this year, the focus is still on great products and Swedish flavours.” A few times every year, Lux Dag för Dag hosts a Farmers’ Dinner. For these occa-
sions, the team invites some of its fantastic producers, including farmers, fishermen and hunters. Their products form the evening’s menu, consisting of around eight courses, and guests have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the products. The next Farmers’ Dinner takes place on 14 June. The Lux family has also been running restaurant B.A.R. for almost ten years now, located on Blasieholmen. Its ambition is to make fresh seafood more readily available, and the big attraction is the market-hall style Ocean Grill, where guests can create their own meals by choosing from a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood, meat, seasonal vegetables and condiments. As one of few restaurants in Stockholm to do so, Norström explains, B.A.R. buys its fish directly from the fish auction, making it possible to offer fresh fish as well as an attractive price. “The concept is unique in Stockholm. Also, B.A.R. has a true international vibe, and locals as well as tourists love coming here,” he says.
Another of the family’s popular spots is gastro bar Penny & Bill in Östermalm, where the chef and the bartender work side by side, serving mid-sized meals such as ceviche and tartar. A speciality is also the so-called foodtails, which are cocktails and food paired in a perfect combination. According to Norström, “this is a new type of food experience, which can be varied endlessly”.
Henrik Norström, creative leader. Photo: Erik Wahlstrom
Web: www.luxdagfordag.com Facebook: luxdagfordag Instagram: @luxdagfordag
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 89
Restaurant of the Month, Norway
A unique winter garden in the very north What began as a cluster of shacks, once used as housing for construction workers and miners, has grown into a grand accommodation and restaurant hub that reflects the local history and atmosphere. Here, just outside of Svalbard’s largest settlement of Longyearbyen, at nearly 78 degrees north, you can find Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg: a modern base serving delicious, homemade Norwegian food. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Tommy Simonsen
Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg is one of the most northerly hotel resorts on the planet, a place with soul, distinct character and a wonderful, relaxed vibe. “I want to offer my guests a taste of the real Svalbard, of the lives of the miners and trappers who have left their mark on the island over previous generations,” says owner Mary-Ann Dahle. She recognised the potential of the building when it came up for sale in 2001, after renting it, and thanks to her indomitable drive she has since converted the shacks into an au90 | Issue 113 | June 2018
come like a treasure chest full of collectables and quirky decor that all tell a story, something Dahle is more than happy to tell her guests all about, having lived in the area and gained local knowledge of it for 21 years.
Taste the real Svalbard thentic and unique place where visitors to Longyearbyen are able to come and experience something magical. Stepping through the doors at the Polarrigg, you get a sense of the time that has passed, while also feeling the warm and friendly atmosphere. “I have collected memorabilia and items from the old coal mines as well as vintage furniture, which has been integrated with the rest of the interior to reflect the local history and charm,” Dahle explains. It has be-
Located in one of the most remote places next to the North Pole, only a five-minute walk from the town centre, the Polarrigg is like a warm and homely oasis in the middle of all the snow, and the Winter Garden restaurant is an experience in itself. Decorated with fossils and tropical plants, enjoying a meal here is like dining in a museum. You can enjoy Arctic specialties and traditional, mouth-watering dishes from the north of Norway, with everything from fresh fish to whale and reindeer on the menu.
Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway
“Our menu changes on a regular basis and is always full of authentic and homemade culinary delights. I make all the Norwegian food myself and focus on sourcing only the best, high-quality produce. It is also extremely important for me to cut waste by making sure that we utilise everything,” says Dahle, adding: “If I am not there, there is a guest chef making more exotic dishes, specialising in Thai food with an Arctic twist, as it is quite difficult to find chefs who know how to cook homemade Norwegian food from scratch. Our food is always a big hit with our guests.” In the dining room Shang-Po-lar, a name that comes from the mining community of the town Sverdrupsbyen in the 1930s, your mind will wander back to the old days. “The dining room was designed around the mining life, which used to dominate our existence here on Svalbard. It is the perfect place to enjoy your breakfast and find inspiration for your own voyages of discovery and trips in the area,” says Dahle.
There is always a cosy and homely atmosphere at Svalbard’s most unique locations. With two dining rooms as well as its very own bar, the Polarrigg has become a place for locals and tourists alike to enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Watch the midnight sun shining through the glass enclosure in the summer or the spectacular northern lights mysteriously dance in the winter, or simply admire the beautiful landscape. And do not be surprised if you suddenly see a reindeer or an Arctic fox right outside the window next to your table.
Host for all your northern adventures Year after year, the exceptionally successful business has grown under Dahle’s innovative and creative leadership, with new rooms, new facilities and improved comfort added. Today, the Polarrigg consists of a pleasant courtyard surrounded by three buildings: the mining rig, the luxury rig and the transportation rig, offering a total of 76
Photo: Mary-Ann’s Polarrigg
beds across 17 single rooms, 19 double rooms, four family rooms and one suite. Whether you visit for a meal at the restaurant or an overnight stay, this popular tourist destination has a variety of northern adventures waiting for you to discover. “I cannot guarantee that you will see a polar bear – I always tell my guests that it’s an added bonus if that happens,” Dahle smiles. But you may well spot some of the many other magnificent Arctic animals, as it is possible to join a walrus safari or find whales swimming during one of the boat trips available in the area. “It’s really worth visiting us here at Svalbard to explore this magical place. I am still amazed by its beauty every day,” Dahle concludes.
Location: Skjæringa, 9171 Longyearbyen, Svalbard Web: www.polarriggen.com Facebook: polarriggen Instagram: @maryannspolarrigg
Photo: Harriet M. Olsen
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 91
Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Finland
The restaurant’s large roof terrace is one of the most popular places to go to in Turku. Photo: Ravintola NOOA
Restaurant of the Month, Finland
Riverfront dining Having opened one year ago, Ravintola NOOA is a 250-seat restaurant in Turku’s guest harbour, located right in the city centre. Serving food with a modern Nordic twist, and boasting some of the best views over the city with its rooftop terrace, NOOA is the place to be for a relaxed atmosphere and great cuisine. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Matias Haapsaari
The stylish, large-windowed restaurant NOOA is a striking sight, located right on the Aura river. Built from metal, wood and glass, Ravintola NOOA is narrow and 33 metres long, resembling an ark, as the name indicates. The restaurant’s décor is Scandinavian, and very modern and sleek, the lighting and furniture being the handiwork of local designers, Kudos Dsign. There are a lot of green, leafy plants dotted about the dining room, and wood and metal feature heavily in the décor, adding to the relaxed and stylish feel to the place. Having recently cele92 | Issue 113 | June 2018
brated its first birthday, Ravintola NOOA has already charmed its way into many of the locals’ hearts, and it has quickly become regarded as the top place to venture on a night out.
A terrace with the city’s best views With floor-to-ceiling windows, the place feels airy and spacious. The large roof terrace is one of the most popular places to go to in Turku, especially in the summertime. “Our roof terrace holds over 110 people, making it a lively and fun place to hang out in the summer,” says
Simo Hallikainen, Ravintola NOOA’s head chef. “The terrace offers amazing views over the boats moored in the guest harbour, and a stunning panorama of the whole city is visible from the terrace,” he continues. The restaurant also has a terrace down at the nearest pier, right on the riverfront.
A compact menu with a Nordic twist NOOA’s food is not focused on any particular style of cuisine – although all the dishes have a modern Nordic twist. The restaurant uses ingredients sourced from local producers wherever possible. “Many of our products are supplied by small, local producers, and supporting local business is important to us. The fish comes from a nearby fishmonger, and the vegetables come from a local greengrocer. All our dishes are created using interesting
Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Finland
flavours, and careful consideration has also gone into making the dishes visually appealing,” Hallikainen explains. NOOA’s menu is compact, with just a few starters and desserts and a handful of main dishes. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, and diners can opt for a tasting menu that is paired with wines. Ravintola NOOA’s focal point is an open kitchen, located right in the middle of the dining room. “The idea of an open kitchen also means that we want to keep things simple, and make food that is made from the very best ingredients,” says Hallikainen. Although the menu changes seasonally, one dish remains on the menu: the burg-
er. “The beef burger is a staple. We wanted to make our menu easily accessible to all diners, and for there to be a good selection of dishes. Our burger is always made from Finnish beef, and our burger brioches come from a local bakery. From our fresh fish to vegetarian dishes, we feel that our menu is able to cater to all kinds of tastes,” says Hallikainen. “We also wanted our portion sizes to be generous. We want our customers to leave satisfied,” he laughs. NOOA is also about to get a sister restaurant this summer, opening in nearby town Nagu’s guest harbour. “The new restaurant will have a similar feel to it, but it will be a summertime bistro – a seasonal restaurant,” says Hallikainen.
“We want to make everyone feel welcome. The relaxed atmosphere is such a big part of Ravintola NOOA’s spirit, and our aim has been to make NOOA a place where customers can come and wind down, take in the sights and enjoy good food in great company. Our food is made from good-quality ingredients, and our menu offers something for everyone. We have an exceptionally beautiful location, diners are able to watch sailing boats moored in the harbour, and you can see Turku Cathedral from our roof terrace. This is the very best the city has to offer,” Hallikainen concludes. Web: www.ravintolanooa.fi Facebook: ravintolanooa
Photo: Ravintola NOOA
Photo: Sean Conboy
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 93
Scan Magazine | Beer Profile of the Month | Denmark
Schackenborg craft beer comes in five variations: Classic Pilsner, Red and Dark Lager, Double Bock, and Imperial Stout.
Beer Profile of the Month, Denmark
A beer with a royal taste Created as a tribute to the beautiful Schackenborg Castle, Schackenborg craft beer reflects its home’s historic importance, modern ideals and international influence. As most Danes know, Schackenborg Castle was for many years the home of the Queen’s youngest son, Prince Joachim, and the five Schackenborg craft beers present an exclusive taste experience to match their origin. By Signe Hansen | Photos: De 5 Gaarde
Schackenborg craft beer is part of De 5 Gaarde, five beautiful manor houses tucked away in the rolling hills of Jutland and Funen. In 2001, the farms banded together in order to combine traditional, ethical farming with modern agricultural expertise. Two of the five farms’ most valued outputs are wheat and barley, and hence it was natural that beer should also become part of the production early on. However, with the new Schackenborg craft beer produced by the Danish microbrewery Braunstein, the bar has been raised another notch. General manager of De 5 Gaarde, Claus Hviid, explains: “We get a lot of fun and tasty stuff out of our grain and have been producing beer on ingredients from De 5 Gaarde for 94 | Issue 113 | June 2018
many years. But with our Schackenborg craft beer, we wanted to create a truly exclusive taste experience. The beer is produced in very small quantities, and that gives our brewer the chance to really refine the different taste combinations.”
Dark Lager, Double Bock, and Imperial Stout. The beer is sold in either small 33-centilitre bottles or large 75-centilitre bottles ideal for sharing or gifting to a lucky friend. The different tastes combine flavours of subtly burnt, sweet malt, crisp rye and slightly bitter hops. “With some of them, especially the classic Pilsner and Red Lager, the balance of bitterness and softness makes them perfect for the traditional Danish lunch table,” says Hviid and rounds off: “You definitely don’t have to be a beer connoisseur to enjoy them; their subtle flavours make them very enjoyable for everyone.”
Producing everything from mustard to poultry, De 5 Gaarde are certified by GLOBALG.A.P., the worldwide organisation that sets standards for safe and sustainable farming.
Not just for connoisseurs Due to its small production quantities, Schackenborg craft beer is only sold in specialty stores and restaurants. It comes in five variations: Classic Pilsner, Red and
Web: www.de5gaarde.dk
Scan Magazine | Activity of the Month | Denmark
Activity of the Month, Denmark
The lovable enfant terrible of revues Voted the best revue in Denmark, Kerteminderevyen is known to leave no stone unturned when it comes to making fun of everyone and everything. By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Emil Andresen
Kerteminderevyen is warm, cocky, moving and, crucially, politically incorrect. That is what won them the prize as the best revue in Denmark two years ago, and if the critics are to be believed, it is what could win them the prize again this year. The team of performers is the same as that which won the prize for best revue two years ago, consisting of Trine Gadeberg, Kim Hammelsvang, Farshad Kholghi and Marie Mondrup. “I would describe them as explosive, unruly and creative with impressive voices. They are not always easy to control, but that’s what makes them so great together. There is a special energy when they perform,” says Mads Nørby, fondly. He is the owner and director of Kerteminderevyen, and he also appears on stage every now and then during the show.
ner consisting of a traditional Danish meal before the show. This way, you can properly warm up for a show that is well-known for its ability to make fun of everything and everyone. “Some revues tend to be a bit too nice and polite, but that’s not the case with Kerteminderevyen. It’s not that we necessarily aim to be the enfant terrible of revues, but it’s just the way it has been for the last few years. We are not afraid of pushing the boundaries, and
sometimes we also cross the line,” says Nørby, and adds: “That said, it’s important to understand that we make fun of everything and everyone. We are not tendentious, and you can’t define us as one thing more than the other. We make fun of hypocrisy, greediness, double standards, incompetence and politicians on both the right and the left. We take a satirical look at Danes as well as immigrants when we try to show the society as we see it.” Kerteminderevyen runs from 27 May until 7 July. Web: www.kerteminderevyen.dk Facebook: Kerteminderevyen
A laugh for everyone When you attend Kerteminderevyen, you also have the option to enjoy a dinIssue 113 | June 2018 | 95
Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark
The 18 interactive exhibitions at the recently reopened Experimentarium explore everything from laser harps to water and soap bubbles.
Experience of the Month, Denmark
A world of play and science Dedicated to science and curiosity, the recently reopened Experimentarium, north of Copenhagen, interactively explores everything from soap bubbles to laser harps. Even the youngest family members can take part in activities allowing children as young as one to explore science through play. By Signe Hansen | Photos: David Trood
Reopened in January 2017, the new Experimentarium has quickly proved a massive hit with families from all over the world. Highly intuitive, the science centre’s 18 interactive exhibitions ensure an experience that all of the family can and will take part in, regardless of age and nationality. “It doesn’t matter if you come from China, Denmark or Finland – you will get the same great experience, because everything here is hands-on and very intuitive. We get a lot of international visitors, and they evidently have a splendid time here,” says Kim Gladstone Herlev, CEO at Experimentarium. “It’s very much a family day. You don’t see anyone walking around with his or her mobile phone; everyone 96 | Issue 113 | June 2018
gets involved. Of course, we have a lot of children, including school groups, but the parents and grandparents tend to get really into the activities too.” Among the 18 new exhibitions are an enormous interactive rooftop terrace and an interactive film theatre. The centre’s three floors of experiences also comprise Miniverset, a new segment for children from one to five years old.
Let the curiosity unfold Designed by the renowned Danish architecture firm CEBRA, the new Experimentarium lets visitors explore a range of subjects, such as the human
body, the science of soap bubbles, and the logistics of world trade exemplified by the world’s largest interactive ball track. “The new Experimentarium offers hours of phenomenal experiences. But Experimentarium can also be summed up in that single moment when the spark of curiosity ignites, and you suddenly see the world in a new way,” says Herlev. One of the most popular new attractions at the science centre is the interactive film theatre. It has no soft seats or popcorn, but instead engages all viewers to take part and jump, skip, dance and shout their way through a 13-minute-long animated film. At the top of the building, visitors will find the new rooftop terrace, offering a range of fun and interactive experiences under an open sky, making Experimentarium a good choice in any weather. “There is so much to do here! When our guests come
Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Denmark
in, we often see the parents start to plan and design the visit, but the kids just run straight into it and get started,” says Herlev.
wind, light and reflections. The space is divided into seven areas, which include interactive experiences such as The Farm, The Hospital, and The Shadow Forest.
Science through play
“The interesting thing is that we tend to think that science is something very complicated and dry, but that’s not the way children see it at all. They experience the world through play, and thanks to the brain they are born with, they will naturally start exploring and trying to get to the cause of effects,” says Herlev and rounds off: “Children are natural-born scientists. Every day, they discover new things and learn about the world through play.”
Part of the new Experimentarium is also Miniverset, a 10,700-square-foot exhibition where children aged one to five years can learn about science through play. “Miniverset is a fun, inspiring and safe environment that nurtures children’s basic understanding of science, while they are busy having the time of their lives,” says Herlev. In some parts of Miniverset, science is tied to classic children’s games, while in other parts, the children play while experiencing natural phenomena such as
Web: www.experimentarium.dk
Facts: Experimentarium is located in Hellerup, seven kilometres north-west of Copenhagen. The new Experimentarium has a total floor area of 26,850 square metres (the building covering 25,000 square metres and the rooftop terrace 1,850 square metres). The exhibition area has more than doubled in size compared to the first Experimentarium, built in 1991, to today’s 10,000 square metres. 9.2 million visitors have visited Experimentarium since 1991. The rooftop is open when the weather permits, until 22 October 2018.
Photo: Henrik Helsgaun
Photo: Adam Mørk
Top left and middle: Miniverset is a 10,700-square-foot exhibition where children aged one to five years can learn about science through play. Top right: Interactive rooftop. Photo: Anders Bruun. Bottom left: Designed by the renowned Danish architecture firm CEBRA, the new Experimentarium is beautifully linked together by the architectural centrepiece, a curving copper-clad Helix staircase inspired by the DNA molecule’s spiral shape. Photo: Adam Mørk
Issue 113 | June 2018 | 97
“Our motto is to be generous, honest and local�
Catering to parties ranging in size from two people to 450, Siv-Hilde runs courses, offers catering and will happily put together tailor-made events.
www.facebook.com/Lofotmat
Scan Magazine | Experience of the Month | Finland
Photo: Anna Kuokkanen
Spanish band Za! performing at Norpas in 2017. Photo: Oskari Härmä
Otava Yo will be playing at Norpas 2018. Photo: Otava Yo
Experience of the Month, Finland
Magic happens when art forms collide Festival Norpas is an independent culture festival combining multiple art forms – from film and theatre to music, photography, poetry and dance. Taking place in the picturesque Finnish archipelago, in Taalintehdas on Kimito island, Norpas draws in crowds from all over the globe to enjoy the island’s magical atmosphere. By Ndéla Faye
Taalintehdas is a village with a longstanding ironworks background. Its industrial past is tangible all around the island, and it is a big part of the identity of the village. After the closing of its last iron factory in 2012, the village started to create a new identity for itself – and that is when Norpas emerged. The culture festival has its roots in the Catalonian countryside, near Barcelona, where Norpas’ predecessor, Festival Surpas, was organised. When Festival Surpas came to an end in 2011, it was time for its northern sibling to take over.
ensemble from Moscow, they have travelled all over the world, and now they are coming to Norpas – and we are very honoured and excited to welcome them,” says Ville Laitinen, the festival’s executive director. Norpas’ aim is to combine different art forms and bring artists and audiences together in a unique way. From concerts, silent films accompanied by live music,
workshops and installations, to photo and art exhibitions, theatre and circus, there is bound to be something for everyone in attendance. Many events at Norpas Festival are free of charge, and the performances are scattered around the village, including inside some of the old ironworks buildings. “Norpas has truly added to the spirit of this village. We want to make all art forms easily accessible to audiences and show people what magical things can happen when different art forms collide in unexpected ways,” Laitinen concludes. Web: www.festivalnorpas.fi
Ruamjai choir performing at Norpas in 2016. Photo: Sanna Seppo
Running from 3 August until 5 August 2018, and hosting both Finnish and international artists, this year’s festival line-up includes one of the biggest names on the international theatre scene: BlackSkyWhite. “They’re an award-winning, avant-garde theatre Issue 113 | June 2018 | 99
Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Denmark
Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj, courtesy of Danish Architecture Center
Architect of the Month , Denmark
Rebeauty
– the new Nordic approach to reusing building components Reusing discarded building components can result in not just economic and environmental benefits, but in aesthetically and culturally enhanced architecture. Despite challenges, this is the conclusion of a major research project completed by Vandkunsten Architects. This summer, the Danish firm is exhibiting five beautiful concepts for repurposing building materials at the Venice Architecture Biennale. By Signe Hansen
As part of the Danish Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale, visitors can currently experience a fascinating and somewhat unusual display of exterior and interior architectural elements. One is a stylish metal façade made in reshaped ventilation ducts, another 100 | Issue 113 | June 2018
a distinct interior wall pieced together from old wooden floors, and a third a rustic exterior cladding of patinated roof tiles. The ambition with this exhibition is to show how dismantled building components can be reused, not just for the obvious purpose of saving materials,
energy and money, but also to add a distinctive aesthetic and cultural dimension to a building. “We’ve called the project this is based on Rebeauty, because our focus has been to create architectural value and beauty. That’s what we, as a firm, are known for and so, while a lot of firms work more generally with reuse, that’s our specific focus,” explains Søren Nielsen, architect MAA and partner at Vandkunsten Architects. “Our ambition is not to conceal the reused materials but to make them look so striking that they are immediately noticed and become a defining part of the project’s identity.”
Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Denmark
As the market for reused materials is still very young, the ambition faces many challenges including regulations, inadequate technology and the general attitude among developers. But with the EU strategy on circular economy and expected forthcoming legislation, curiosity and exploration of the possibilities are, stresses Nielsen, essential to the industry.
Taking up the challenge The idea for the Rebeauty project was kick-started six years ago by a major renovation project of a non-profit housing complex in Albertslund Syd. One of the most challenging tasks of the project was the complete renewal of the ground slabs, something that required 80,000 square metres of solid beech parquet flooring to be removed. In an ordinary renovation, these quality floors would be transformed into district heating in the local incinerator plant. However, in
the winning proposal from Vandkunsten Architects, it was suggested that the floors instead be reused in a more purposeful manner. “Given that our focus over the years has been to preserve resources in our building projects, we felt obliged to suggest a different solution, one in which the material was to be reused at a higher level,” Nielsen explains. “We proposed to convert the floorboards into a new interior wall cladding to cover the new highly insulating façade panels. The reused wood would thus replace a standard interior cladding and in this way reduce the total environmental impact.” While the realisation of this ambition proved impossible due to a lack of support from residents, another solution to reuse the floorboards was found in the still ongoing project. Significantly, the project led to the ambitious Rebeauty research project led by Vandkunsten
Architects and conducted in collaboration with Genbyg, Asplan Viak, and Malmö Tekniska Högskola. “The Albertslund Syd experience inspired us to go further, and we decided to designate part of our commission funds to conduct research in high-level component reuse,” explains Nielsen. The project explores the reuse and repurposing of six different building materials: concrete, bricks, glass, metal, soft flooring, and wood.
Without beauty, there will be no sustainability While today’s demolishing practice in the Nordic countries efficiently separates construction debris and minimises landfill, waste materials are most often broken down for combustion or for recycling as secondary material. Only a very small part of demolition waste is reused in a similar function or for other purposes, and consequently resources are
This summer, Vandkunsten Architects is exhibiting five striking full-scale prototypes of repurposed building materials at the Venice Architecture Biennale. Photo: Vandkunsten Architects
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Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Denmark
102 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Denmark
wasted. The aim of the Rebeauty project, on the other hand, is to repurpose more or less complete components and allow their original function to add extra cultural, commercial and aesthetic value to the new or renovated building. For instance, the New Nordic Wall – the name draws reference to the exposed interior brick wall dubbed ‘New Yorker Wall’ by Nordic real estate agents – transforms old floors into beautiful interior wooden-wall building blocks. Reusing wooden floors in this manner is, says Nielsen, a commercially and sustainably very viable concept because of the ease of repurposing wood, the positive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and the product’s distinct character. The repurposing of other materials such as ventilation ducts and roof tiles also resulted in concepts with exciting architectural and aesthetic value – and the exploration continues. “For us, it is highly interesting to rebeauty or explore the artistic potential of these concepts. So, if the alternative aesthetics of the project prototypes excite or provoke, this is
the intention. Without beauty, there will be no sustainability,” stresses Nielsen.
The concrete challenge During the research project, 20 full-scale prototypes of rebeautified building components were created. All the prototypes were tested extensively to assess the expected life cycle and the comparative use of energy and resources in the repurposing process. In general, all but the concrete concepts had strong LCAs. “What we discovered is that things that look perfectly good on paper can, in reality, be perfectly bad; one of those things is cutting up concrete slabs into smaller building components, mainly because they have to be cut using costly and energy-consuming industrial equipment, which makes it very expensive compared to, for instance, glass and steel,” explains Nielsen. Another challenge with concrete is that concrete structures are joint-cast, which means that even buildings constructed using prefabricated concrete elements cannot be separated undamaged. “It’s
Rebeauty – Nordic Build Component Reuse: - The Rebeauty project is a collaboration between Genbyg (an online trader of used building materials), Asplan Viak (a Norwegian Engineering company), and Malmö Tekniska Högskola, led by Vandkunsten Architects. - 20 full-scale prototypes were constructed in the project. - Material concepts were developed primarily from overall material categories: brick, concrete, glass, metal, and wood. - The project evaluated each concept’s practical, environmental, commercial and cultural aspects. - Before being exhibited at the Venice Architecture Biennale, full-scale work has been exhibited at DogA in Oslo as well as the Building Green fair in Copenhagen. It has also been the theme of a lecture at Harvard University’s Centre for Green Buildings and Cities. - The project was supported by a grant from the Nordic Built innovation fund.
Left page: Reusing dismantled wooden floors for wall cladding not only saves money and resources but also adds a distinct aesthetic expression to the design. Photos: Torben Eskerod. Above: Using old tiles from dismantled local buildings, Vandkunsten Architects has merged Musicon, a new residential development in a renovation project in Roskilde, into the history and culture of the local area. Illustration: Vandkunsten Architects
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Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Denmark
Illustration: Vandkunsten Architects
very unfortunate, because it’s the most widely used material in the industry. That makes the fact that it can’t be reused a big problem, and the conclusion might be that we need to find alternative materials such as wood. But it might also be that, in the future, if we’re able to base the process on renewable energy, it won’t be as big a problem,” says Nielsen.
A reuse romanticism While most of the Rebeauty concepts have only been produced in prototypes, a few have been incorporated into new architectural projects by Vandkunsten. At Musicon, a new residential area in Roskilde, repurposed tiles from dismantled buildings in the local area have been incorporated into the façades. With the reused materials, an extra time dimension has been added to the otherwise brand-new residential development and has placed it into the history of the area. “It’s about taking something that otherwise has no value and reorganising and repurposing it to add an aesthetic value to a structure and a new value to the material, and that’s what we have done at Musicon,” explains Nielsen. “I think in not too many years, we will see a future where everything doesn’t necessarily have to be new and perfect, and that’s why we’re very concerned with how to tell a story through reused materials, how we can create a form of reuse romantics.”
One step ahead While it is widely expected that EU regulations regarding the reuse of building components will soon be reality, there are still many hindrances to a wide104 | Issue 113 | June 2018
scale implementation of even viable concepts. In many cases, reusing materials is actually illegal because it is difficult to prove that the materials are safe and uncontaminated. “There are some barriers that we have to find a way around if we want to create a truly circular economy within the building industry. The solution lies in investing in the technology that can make testing and repurposing dismantled materials cheaper. If we embrace this attitude instead of going against it, it is a great chance for Danish architects to get ahead,” says Nielsen. He goes on to stress that while there is, at the moment, a lot of talk, seminars and hype around the subject in the Nordic countries, there is not enough action. “There is no doubt that our resources will become scarcer or more expensive,” he says, “and instead of seeing the need to reuse as a necessity, we need to see it as a chance to create something even greater than before.” Photo: Torben Eskerod
Facts about Vandkunsten: - Vandkunsten Architects’ office is located in Krudtløbsvej, Copenhagen. - The office was founded in 1970 by architects Svend Algren, Jens Thomas Arnfred, Michael Sten Johnsen and Steffen Kragh. - Employing approximately 70 people, Vandkunsten Architects specialises in city planning, residential buildings, office buildings, cultural institutions, renovation and landscaping all over Scandinavia and northern Europe. - In 2009, Vandkunsten Architects was awarded the Alvar Aalto Medal. Since its establishment in 1967, the medal has been awarded approximately every five years to individuals or companies with significant achievements in creative architecture.
Web: www.vandkunsten.com
Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Denmark
Above and below left: The new Harbour Cove City Houses in Copenhagen all have the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. One of the steps taken to secure this certification was the use of 700,000 recycled bricks on the façades. Photos: Lasse B Martinussen
Illustration: Vandkunsten Architects
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Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Finland
The design of the Kalasatama Park in Helsinki was inspired by the location’s past as an archipelago and harbour.
Architect of the Month , Finland
A space odyssey For Helsinki-based landscape architecture agency Maanlumo, the spaces that surround us are much more than just that: they hold the potential to make our lives easier, but also more enjoyable. The sweet spot lies in the skillful merging of the aesthetic with the practical. By Hanna Heiskanen | Photos: Maanlumo Ltd
When the team of Maanlumo embarks on a new project, the first thing they do is put on their walking shoes. A handson exploration of the site in question – be it a green space or an urban area – from the end users’ point of view allows the designers to get a good feel for the task at hand. “At the heart of our practice,” says landscape architect and co-founder Krista Muurinen, “is observing and discovering the characteristics that, put together, make up each unique space. It’s important to leave any preconceptions at the door.” 106 | Issue 113 | June 2018
Team effort Muurinen and her colleague Teresa Rönkä, who founded Maanlumo together nearly five years ago, were from the start inspired by the idea of gathering around them a team of specialists with an equally strong interest in space and place. The name of the agency refers to being enchanted by the land and place itself: its past, present and future. “One of the challenges of landscape architecture is marrying together any existing natural elements and the needs of the people who will be using the site, which
is why getting to know the space well is crucial,” Muurinen explains, suggesting that shaping a space bears a strong resemblance to sculpture. “Often, there are wonderful elements already there that are well worth preserving, but they might need attention and highlighting.” After careful familiarisation with and analysis of the site, the agency creates an artistic concept that acts as a leitmotif visible in both large-scale features and smaller details. Once spades hit the ground, the Maanlumo team likes to remain involved until the finishing stages, which can easily take several years – patience is key. Landscaping projects require a considerable range of expertise, from engineering to gardening, to succeed. Behind the best outcome is the ability to speak a common language, but also
Scan Magazine | Architect of the Month | Finland
to stay curious and prepared to learn from others. Hence, Maanlumo works closely with all parties but also encourages the team to pursue their interests and undergo further training. An enchantment with the land is more than a nine-to-five gig.
Art comes to life As anyone pounding down a city’s streets or strolling along a country lane will know, no space exists in isolation; instead, they are interlaced as the eye takes in the view. “Landscape architecture deals with everything you see out of your window or your doorstep,” Muurinen explains. Maanlumo likes to think about landscape architecture as creating a ’gesamtkunstwerk’, a total work of art that is brought to life by those who use it. “Our role is to build a frame, but it’s up to people and nature to mold it to their liking. It’s a living, breathing process that never ends.” Particularly close to Maanlumo’s heart are the neglected spaces and wastelands that no one pays attention to: the cavity underneath a bridge or the fringes of a parking lot. The trick is to learn to see the inherent qualities of a space through a positive lens, and to strengthen them. It is a task that requires plenty of imaginative thinking, resisting rigid notions as well as a sense of humour. There are no
stupid ideas, Muurinen insists, and a silly joke can lead to a creative breakthrough. Taking one’s work seriously does not have to mean being boring.
Design and the city Even if you do not pay conscious attention to a particular space, you will know if it works. The overarching purpose of landscape architecture is to make sure that the spaces in which we live our daily lives are as functional, ecological and enjoyable as possible. Sometimes, it is the little things that count, from revamping the lighting to engaging the neighbourhood in creating street art. Future plans for Maanlumo include more grass-roots projects, but also a focus on urban nature and environmental values. In 2016, the agency received an award for designing an art courtyard on the theme of silence for a residential and campus area in Helsinki. Another recent project was designing the public spaces in the new Kalasatama neighbourhood, including a rooftop park. Naming a favourite? “Impossible!”
project would be one that combines many elements and end-user groups. But to be frank, everything you work on becomes your baby,” says Muurinen. In many ways, the agency is another chapter in the long history of great Finnish design. “We Finns don’t always do pride very well, but I do feel we can be proud of our excellent level of landscape architecture,” Muurinen concludes. Web: www.maanlumo.fi Instagram: @maanlumo
Maanlumo believes that there is a need for more urban culture and looking at the city as a living room where everyone is welcome. The more people use the space, the more challenging the design – but that is no problem for Maanlumo. “Our dream
Photo: Mikael Saurén / Maanlumo Top right: The landscaping specialists of Maanlumo, clockwise from top left: Aapo Pihkala, Teresa Rönkä, Eevis Ekman, Liisa Dahlqvist, Elsi Lehto, Krista Muurinen (Annalinda Paakkolanvaara not pictured). Bottom left: A total work of art delights users in the public park built on the roof of a commercial centre in Kalasatama, Helsinki. Bottom right: Combining nature with new urban culture is a rewarding challenge – here, an example from Jyväskylä, Finland.
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Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway
Under the surface.
Rider.
Artist of the Month, Norway
The artist with the beautiful colours Elling Reitan is today one of Norway’s most renowned and popular contemporary multidisciplinary artists. With his personal, unique and timeless style focusing on bold colours and symbolism, Reitan has come to play an important role on the modern art scene. By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Elling Reitan
Often referred to as the artist with the beautiful colours, Elling Reitan invites the viewer to find their own interpretation of his artwork. Influenced by Edvard Munch and religious Middle Age motifs, he also takes inspiration from his travels and the colours around him. “The red sunrise in the east, seen on the plane to Shanghai and Beijing, is a great source of inspiration and has contributed to my latest paintings, called Rothkoscapes – after the American painter Mark Rothko,” Reitan explains. Reitan’s passion for art started at an early age, but he decided to study philosophy and history of literature before starting a career as a lecturer. “I always practised art as a hobby, and as soon as I started exhibiting, the significant feedback and sales meant I could cut down on lectur108 | Issue 113 | June 2018
ing and focus on my passion,” he says. In 1992, he decided to dedicate his full time to being an artist. “I learnt a lot working as a pupil of Odd Nerdrum, but it was afterwards, when I could experiment more, that my own personal and unique style developed. I always knew I was a colourist, which was something I could finally explore,” says Reitan. His love of colour and his timeless and surreal expression have played an important role in his success. Although Reitan is known for his vivid colours, he is also famed for his use of the stroke pair that first appeared in 1983. “The pair stem from the Chinese philosophy of Yin and Yang, symbolising opposites that together form a whole. I
started portraying them in my paintings not only to create depth and perspective, but because the two silhouettes stand for dualism,” says Reitan. Today, the stroke pair has found its place in all of his works on an equal level to his own signature. “People often look for them in my art. Sometimes they can be small and hidden, which makes it interesting for the observer,” he smiles. Since his debut in 1979, Reitan has participated in more than 150 exhibitions in Norway and abroad, including at Redwood Museum in Beijing, the Nordic Heritage Museum in Seattle, and Noyes Museum of Art in Atlantic City, as well as in New York, Oslo, and Singapore. Elling Reitan has had two paintings on display in the US at Heritage Auctions, sold at a noteworthy price.
To purchase his artwork, visit his website: www.ellingreitan.com
Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Finland
Apophasis 2, 118cm x 158cm, oil on linen, 2018.
Apophasis 5, 118cm x 158cm, oil on linen, 2018.
Apophasis 1 – Blue Moment, 119cm x 159cm, oil on linen, 2017.
Artist of the Month, Finland
When everyday moments turn into mystery Finnish artist Riikka Ahlfors observes mundane everyday places such as stations and escalators and transforms her observations into captivating paintings. By Anne Koski-Wood | Photos: Riikka Ahlfors
Back in her studio, Ahlfors distances herself from the locations by inverting the photographs into their negative colours, using that as a starting point for her painting. By using oil on canvas, the mundane moment becomes abstraction in Ahlfors’ hands, but still retains a memory of the original moment. “I don’t invent situations – I look at them from a different angle,” Ahlfors says about her process. The artist gives herself a tight conceptual frame, which allows her freedom to create. “The process is like a spiral that takes me around the subject but still leads me deeper into it,” she says. The result – paintings full of energy with vibrant colours and movement – is uplifting, leaving the viewer filled with joy. “I have a positive outlook on everyday life,” Ahlfors admits, and talks fondly about air filled with light. She wants the viewer to step inside the moment and to experience it with all five senses and feelings.
Ahlfors gets her inspiration from nature, light and colours. Back in Canada, where she lived for 14 years, she worked as a florist as well as an artist, and she has enjoyed being outside and wandering in nature since she was a child. The creation of art has always been present in her life, and she describes herself as “a very hands-on person”. For the first time, Ahlfors’ work is now exhibited at the Mänttä Art Festival, where a collection of her paintings are Apophasis is a rhetorical device wherein the speaker or writer brings up a subject by either denying it, or denying that it should be brought up. Accordingly, it can be seen as a rhetorical relative of irony.
XXIII Mänttä Art Festival runs from 17 June to 31 August 2018. Web: www.kuvataideviikot.fi
curated under the theme of Apophasis. “Maybe turning things upside down is a way of finding new solutions that can give hope for the future,” suggests the artist. Apophasis 4, 118cm x 158cm, oil on linen, 2018.
Biography: Riikka Ahlfors was born in Finland in 1975, but lived in Canada from 1992 to 2007. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from York University, Ontario, Canada, and a Master of Fine Arts from the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts, Helsinki, Finland. Her work has been exhibited in Finland and throughout Europe. Web: www.riikkaahlfors.com Instagram: @riikkaahlfors
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Scan Magazine | Gallery of the Month | Norway
Hit by the sun.
Gallery of the Month, Norway
Art from the Arctics Inspired by the towering mountains, the ever-changing seasons and the countless fjords of the northern parts of Norway, artist Anne Gundersen creates beautiful photo collages that play on a sense of belonging, of childhood memories and of blissful melancholy. By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Anne Gundersen
Having grown up among the wonderfully wild nature of Nordland, a northern region of Norway just below the Arctic Circle, Anne Gundersen feels at one with the nature, the history and the culture of the north. Living in Utskarpen in Rana with immediate proximity to five fjords, she draws inspiration from the scenery right outside her door when creating her photo collages. 110 | Issue 113 | June 2018
“I live right in the middle of a giant smorgasbord,” she says about the area surrounding and inspiring her. “I’ve got the fjords, the land, the islands and the nature right here on my doorstep. There’s so much to draw from!” With an extensive career within art, Gundersen started expressing herself visually at a young age, before study-
ing art at Høgskolen i Oslo (HIO) in the Norwegian capital. Having spent years teaching art as well, her belief in the therapeutic abilities of art is mirrored in her dreamy, yet easily recognisable images featuring landscapes, birds, houses, washing lines, flowers, piers and boathouses. “Washing lines are almost like paintings within a landscape when you see them outside,” she says. “The way the laundry is dancing in the wind, all the different colours, the movements… There’s just something positive about it that I remember from my childhood when my grandmother had her washing line
Scan Magazine | Gallery of the Month | Norway
between two big birch trees and the air was warm and still.”
Playful perspectives Playing with colours, dimensions and techniques, Gundersen’s images are visually intriguing with a deeper emotional meaning, letting the spectator revisit their own beloved childhood homesteads, memories and experiences. “Norway is full of people from the northern parts of the country who have moved to other places, and they love the pictures because they’re recognisable. They remind them of their childhoods and the places they come from. They tend to get a bit homesick and want to go straight back home when they see my pictures,” says Gundersen. Her pictures appeal to people’s deepest feeling and the sense of belonging, which is ultimately her goal. “I want to work with something that means something to people. Composition and colours need to be in place, but there needs to be a deeper meaning to it all.” She adds: “I am quite uninhibited when I create art. There are many ways to perceive perspective, but I go by the value of
The breakthrough.
She and he.
the items I put into a piece. Something that is small in reality can sometimes become very big in my pictures. A flower or a washing line can be bigger than a house.” Having worked with several expressions in art, Gundersen developed her own technique early on, experimenting with printing multiple photos on a single sheet, creating a brand-new expression. When PhotoShop came along a few years later, the process was made a lot easier, leaving Gundersen with a much wider array of opportunities and techniques, resulting in her signature style: collages made out of multiple photographs.
displayed. The gallery is located near one of the main roads for tourists travelling north, making it a perfect opportunity for guests to pick up a piece of art displaying the very things they see while visiting the area. You can also experience Gundersen’s art through her books, where the images are accompanied by text and poetry, all created by the artist herself.
She has a number of exhibitions coming up this summer and is currently hard at work packing up pictures and shipping them off to various locations. From a lighthouse at Hurumlandet in the Oslo Fjord to an old-fashioned storehouse on a farm in the mountains of Folldal near Snøhetta, Gundersen’s art will be featured in galleries across Norway over the next few months. However, her main gallery is Gallery Anne Gundersen, her own space in Utskarpen in Nordland, where all her pieces are created and
Anne Gundersen’s paintings are sold in 13 galleries all over Norway. You can view her art at the following locations this summer: - Galleri Anne Gundersen: 29 June-1 August - Filtvedt Fyr at Hurumlandet: 23 June-12 August - Galleri Slåen in Folldal: 1 July-12 August - Kjerringøydagan at Kjerringøy near Bodø: 7 July
Web: www.annegundersen.com Facebook: SOLREGN1
Anne Gundersen creates art that plays on memories and a sense of belonging.
Gallery and workspace.
House of the rising sun.
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Scan Magazine | Humour |
Columns
IS IT JUST ME…
By Mette Lisby
Who is puzzled about what seems to be a worldwide obsession with air conditioning? The concept leaves me freezing and baffled with one burning question on my mind: Why? I travel halfway around the world to Thailand to escape winter and frost, to revel in heat and sunshine, only to walk into the hotel lobby and be met by a staggering 15 degrees Celsius. Why? People working the front desk are in full suits – shirts and jackets! Why? It is Thailand! It is supposed to be hot! 100 billion tourists cannot be wrong. (Okay, numbers are not my forte – this one has the sole purpose of figuratively illustrating ‘a lot’.) We all go to there because of the heat. Generally, worldwide, heat is pretty popular and in high demand. So why is it that every place where heat comes naturally, people are doing everything they can to cool it down – ironically spending lots of energy that in the end only helps increase global warming? I moved to Los Angeles, abandoned my family and friends for California living and yes, the warm weather is a big part of that
– when I can find it, that is. Because everywhere I go, they do their best to keep it at a mind-boggling sub-20 degrees Celsius. In taxis – or any car, except my own, basically – I sit freezing on the backseat with clattering teeth, while the driver is wearing two shirts and a jacket. Why? Why not just dress for the weather you are actually in? Instead of changing the temperature, maybe just wear shorts? The last time I flew in to Los Angeles, we were boarded on a bus to take us from the plane to the airport building. Landing in Los Angeles having flown from Mexico you would have never thought to pack winter clothes, but that was exactly what that bus ride required. The air conditioning was so aggressive I nearly had frostbite. “Welcome to Los Angeles!” Why are people so obsessed with cold? Have they never experienced real winter? Do they think of winter as something to be tak-
Rules of hospitality Swedes like to mix their hospitality with strict rules. Official dinners, such as one that we were lucky to attend recently, can be a good example of this. On arrival, we were treated to a lovely welcome drink, then left to queue for an eternity to be ticked off the appropriate guest list. This set the whole meal back by an hour, but rules are rules. Then came the dinner: herring and boiled potatoes. This is a meal that is served all year round at every possible occasion – another example of where enjoyable meets compulsory. Along with the herring comes snaps (neat, chilled aquavit), every sip of which is accompanied by a snaps song, a short ditty about – you guessed it – snaps. You must drink. Rules. Through a mix-up, my husband got allocated a seat away from me, but when we enquired about moving, we were met by blank stares. You sit where you are told to! 112 | Issue 113 | June 2018
en lightly, something desirable, even? Take it from me, who grew up in Scandinavia, lived in Greenland for six months and has been travelling ever since to keep warm: cold is overrated – ask anybody who catches it! Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish version of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.
By Maria Smedstad
outdoor shoes in the hall. Naturally, you buy your shoes according to the rules, in this case fashion rules. Picture a throng of 400 tanked-up guests, scrabbling to find their footwear in a gigantic pile of identical shoes. “Madness!” husband mused, opening a beer, which was swiftly removed by staff. Because you would not want to get drunk out of the strict, official get-drunk-hours, would you? Luckily, husband ended up wedged between two women who were very good at explaining all the rules, though he did cause a stir with his inability to remember which table companion to eyeball the most intently after the snaps (don’t get me started on that one, I still have no idea). Then came one final moment of rule- induced chaos. In Sweden, it is typical to bring indoor shoes to a party, leaving your
Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.
Scan Magazine | Culture | Music
Scandinavian music By Karl Batterbee
Swedish superstar Tove Lo has gathered together some of her popstar mates to release a new track. Featuring Icona Pop and Elliphant from Sweden, Alma from Finland and Charli XCX from the UK, she has produced Bitches – a song about a certain kind of enjoyment that Tove gets from her female friends. Boys should not feel left out though – the girls have filmed a somewhat educational music video for you to enjoy. Sweden has been getting a reputation recently for producing some great soul artists, with the likes of Seinabo Sey, Sabina Ddumba and Janice flying the flag high for both the country and the genre. But again, are the guys feeling left out? One new artist on the scene might change that: Swedish gent Patrik Jean. He has just released his debut EP, L is For. All six songs have titles that start
with the letter L, and more importantly, all six show off his incredibly soulful voice beautifully. If an EP is still far too much of a commitment for you though, skip to the highlight – Losing Sleep. A brand new electropop outfit has just popped up. Sleepyheads is the side project for three artists: vocalist Emanuel and producer Von Arbin from Sweden, and vocalist Daniel Oliver from Iceland. Their debut single is If U Got A Problem, and it sounds like it could have come from Body Talk-era Robyn. No greater compliment in synthpop, but totally deserved. And finally, Iceland’s Daniel Oliver is not just concentrating on Sleepyheads right now. He has also put out his latest single, Emotions – a banging dance track that has been heavily influenced by ‘90s
club music. If you appreciate a modern take on piano house, you should find a lot to love here. www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@gmail.com
ELVIS ELVIS costello costello && The The Imposters Imposters (UK) (UK) // THE THE PRODIGY PRODIGY (UK) (UK) Alan walker / SUSANNE SUNDFØR Alan walker / SUSANNE SUNDFØR ELVIS Imposters (UK) / THE/ oSLO PRODIGY (UK) LISSIE costello (US) / OnklP& &The de fjerne slektningene ESS / Gåte LISSIE (US) / OnklP & de fjerne slektningene / oSLO ESS / Gåte dagny / Miss TAti / smokie (uk) / bigbang Miss TAti / smokie (uk) / /bigbang Sushi xdagny kobe //morgan sulele / ausekarane adam douglas
Alan walker / SUSANNE SUNDFØR Sushi delara x kobe // morgan sulele//lucky ausekarane / adam douglas Amanda kari bremnes chops (uS) / trang fødsel
Amanda / kari bremnes /slektningene lucky chops (uS)/ /oSLO trangESS fødsel LISSIE (US)delara / OnklP & de fjerne / Gåte gunslingers / Ingebjørg bratland gunslingers / Ingebjørg bratland dagny / Miss TAti / smokie (uk) / bigbang good time charlie / symra / gardsbruk / i am k / helge jordal og motbakkeorkesteret
Sushi x kobe / morgan sulele / ausekarane / adam douglas Amanda delara / kari bremnes / lucky chops (uS) / trang fødsel gunslingers / Ingebjørg bratland
good time charlie / symra/ sustain / gardsbruk / i am k // frokostshow helge jordal og motbakkeorkesteret big men bluesband / ta sjansen / kyle alessandro men bluesband sustain / ta/sjansen / frokostshow / kyle /alessandro aladdin big / bergen byspill / /Barneteater seglskuter og veteranbåtar circus laboratory aladdin / Barneteater / seglskuter og veteranbåtar / circus laboratory plenkino//bergen nicolaybyspill leganger / bruktbåtmesse / rib turar / sjørøvarcruise / motbakkeløp plenkino //nicolay leganger / bruktbåtmesse / rib turar / sjørøvarcruise / motbakkeløp swingkurs dagen-derpå gudsteneste / kassabilløp helikopterturar / statsraad lehmkuhl swingkurs dagen-derpå gudsteneste / kassabilløp helikopterturar / statsraad smaken av /tysnes / anders bakke / randy pavlock (US) / the vossarebels / Tande plehmkuhl / parade smaken av tysnes anders bakke / randy pavlock (US) / the (IE) vossarebels / Tande p / parade guida/ rundtur / Klovn med trekkspel / tupelo / sykkelshow guida rundtur / Klovn med trekkspel / tupelo (IE) / sykkelshow
good time charlie / symra / gardsbruk / i am k / helge jordal og motbakkeorkesteret big men bluesband / sustain / ta sjansen / frokostshow / kyle alessandro aladdin / bergen byspill / Barneteater / seglskuter og veteranbåtar / circus laboratory plenkino / nicolay leganger / bruktbåtmesse / rib turar / sjørøvarcruise / motbakkeløp swingkurs / dagen-derpå gudsteneste / kassabilløp helikopterturar / statsraad lehmkuhl smaken av tysnes / anders bakke / randy pavlock (US) / the vossarebels / Tande p / parade guida rundtur / Klovn med trekkspel / tupelo (IE) / sykkelshow
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Survivor, Reija Meriläinen, 2017. Photo: © Reija Meriläinen.
Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here! Light of the Forest (15-17 June)
By Sanne Wass
G! Festival. Press photo
Curated by artist collective Immuto and supported by the Finnish Institute in London, Light of the Forest is a free immersive art installation inspired by ancient Shamanic rituals and the cycle of seasons. The organisers promise “a mindful journey into the forest of our subconscious”, challenging your perception of reality through light, sound, scent, taste and movement, while exploring how we can reconnect with our sense of self and the world. Chapel of St Margaret’s House, 21 Old Ford Road, E2 9PL London, UK. www.immutocollective.com Issue 113 | June 2018 | 115
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Goldberg Variations – ternary patterns for insomnia, Andersson Dance and Scottish Ensemble. Photo: Hugh Carswell
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Goldberg Variations – ternary patterns for insomnia, Andersson Dance and Scottish Ensemble. Photo: Hugh Carswell
States of Play: Roleplay Reality (until 17 June) This interactive exhibition examines how the roles we play through video games can expose real-world power structures. Hosted by the Foundation for Art and Creative Technology in Liverpool, it brings together artworks and industry games by artists from around the world, including Finnish Reija Meriläinen and Kimmo Modig. Meriläinen’s game Survivor, for example, questions how far you would be willing to manipulate others in order to succeed. Foundation for Art and Creative Technology, 88 Wood Street, Liverpool, L1 4DQ, UK. www.fact.co.uk
Transcending Borders – Scandinavia (20 June) Through ten free events this year, the Italian Cultural Institute in London and
Academy Voices are celebrating Europe through song. The third concert of the Transcending Borders series will explore the Nordic region, presenting a programme of works by Danish, Finnish, Icelandic, Norwegian and Swedish composers, including Grieg, Nielsen, Sibelius, Stenhammar and Rangström. 7.30pm. Italian Cultural Institute, 39 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NX, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk
Esa-Pekka Salonen conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra (28 June)
Adventure Films Underground. Photo: Secret Adventures
Esa-Pekka Salonen. Photo: Benjamin Suomela
The Finnish orchestral conductor and composer Esa-Pekka Salonen conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra this June, performing Arnold Schoenberg’s operatic tale of love and jealousy, Gurrelieder. The masterpiece, which is inspired by a Danish dramatic poem, is scored for soloists, chorus and huge orchestral forcIssue 113 | June 2018 | 117
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Roskilde Festival. Photo: Vegard S. Kristiansen
es, including a part for iron chains. 7.30 pm. Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London SE1 8XX, UK. www.southbankcentre.co.uk
Roskilde Festival (30 June - 7 July) Held in Roskilde, Denmark, Roskilde Festival is the largest culture and music festival in northern Europe. The programme this year presents no less than 174 artists over seven cheerful days, including the likes of Eminem, Bruno Mars, Gorillaz, David Byrne, Nine Inch Nails, St. Vincent, Khalid, Cardi B, Massive Attack and Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. Darupvej 19, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark www.roskilde-festival.dk
Goldberg Variations – ternary patterns for insomnia (5-7 July) An invigorating collaboration between Stockholm-based Andersson Dance and 118 | Issue 113 | June 2018
classical musicians Scottish Ensemble interprets Bach’s Goldberg Variations, bringing out its moments of tender, expressive, vulnerable and life-affirming humanity. Expect a contrast of slow and fast, uplifting and reflective, extroverted and introverted movement, when the eleven-member string orchestra and five contemporary dance artists unlock the soul of the music. Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS, UK. www.barbican.org.uk
G! festival (12-14 July) Over three days in July, G! festival takes over Syðrugöta, a village with a population of just 400 on the Faroe Islands. With stages built on the beach and football pitch, performances are held against the backdrop of the Faroes’ breathtaking landscape. This year’s line-up includes a wide range of Nordic
artists, joined by Rag’n’Bone Man, Faithless, Harlem Gospel Choir, Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, among others. Syðrugøta, Faroe Islands. www.gfestival.fo
Adventure Films Underground (Until 28 July) Secret Adventures invites you for an evening of three of the world’s best adventure documentaries, hosted in the tunnel leading under the Thames at The Brunel Museum in Rotherhithe. One of the films follows two Norwegians, Inge Wegge and Jørn Ranum, who find an isolated beach in the Arctic circle where they surf for nine months in the dark. Wild cocktails will be served in the garden above the shaft before and between the films. Brunel Museum Shaft, London SE16 4LF, UK. www.secretadventures.org
CAMPING BENEATH THE MIDNIGHT SUN
Stave Camping is located on the wild and beautiful West Coast of Andøya. Just minutes from whale and seabird safari with puffin and eagles, and the Andenes ferry towards Senja, Tromsø and Nordkapp. The camping is located directly on the Arctic Ocean, right at the start of the The Stave Coastal Trail – an Arctic coastal wilderness of secret beaches, deep blue lakes, eagles, and wilderness. Måtind has become a popular mountain to visit and a place to take beautiful pictures. This is a walk to remember.
Mail: booking@stavecamping.no
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Phone: +47 926 01 257
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Internet: stavecamping.no
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Instagram: stavecamping
Schackenborg craft beer is an homage to Schackenborg Castle. With its beautiful exterior, historical treasures and labyrinthine nooks and crannies, the castle is a living, breathing place shaped by international influences and proud traditions.
Schackenborg craft beer is brewed from carefully malted barley with added hops. The beers have in common a gorgeous golden colour and a rich, full-bodied taste. The Schackenborg craft beer series enables us to offer you an exclusive and varied assortment with something for every occasion – including fine dining. The two different types of bottles pave the way for both big and small experiences, and the 75cl bottles in particular can replace a good red wine as a dinner companion. The beers are brewed according to recipes steeped in tradition from De 5 Gaarde and in particularly from Schackenborg, each with its own distinctive flavours. The series’ aesthetic expression is inspired by Schackenborg Castle: the stucco from the Winter Dining Room served as inspiration for the labels, while the slanted font is taken from the ceiling beams where owners, craftsmen and servants have carved their names into throughout the ages. Schackenborg Classic Pilsner 5.5% 33cl | Schackenborg Red Lager 5.6% 33cl | Schackenborg Dark Lager 6.0% 33cl Schackenborg Double Bock 8,5% 75cl | Schackenborg Imperial Stout 10% 75cl
F I N D O U T A N D R E A D M O R E AT W W W. D E 5 G A A R D E . D K
De 5 Gaarde Havnen 1 8700 Horsens Danmark +45 4282 0999