THE FIRST ARCTIC EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE
It’s spring and for many, this means it’s time to clean out the old wardrobe, dust off shelves, and bring a new energy into the home.
Today, of course, no one wants to do so carelessly, heaping in new piles of clothes that will only be replaced again next spring. No, most modern consumers are looking for that timeless quality and versatility that will enable them to enjoy new purchases for years to come. Those qualities, as well as sustainability and durability, are found aplenty in this month’s theme on Swedish fashion. Presenting some of the nation’s top brands, we explore not just the elegance and appeal of their designs but also the ethos behind their success.
Nature and the environment are also some of the themes explored by the artists presented in our theme on Norwegian art. But just some. Norway is buzzing with exciting art projects, from the new “car-crash” works of the world-known street artist Andreas Dolk to the handcrafted interior collection by award-winning photographer Orsolya Haarberg.
Of course, spring is also the time to start thinking about summer, and in our other big Norwegian theme, Summer in Norway, we do just that, looking into the mountainous nation’s many breathtakingly beautiful destinations. Whether you’re looking for serenity or adventure, you will find it here.
If you are looking for a cultural experience, however, this year, one destination beats them all, Bodø. In our cover story, we visit the first European capital of culture north of the Arctic Circle to see what visitors may expect from the year to come. Without revealing too much, we can say that Bodø surprises on multiple fronts.
On top of all that, as always, we explore a number of exciting attractions, places to eat, and beautiful Scandinavian designs, from intricate handmade glassware to the icons of Scandinavian minimalism.
As always, we hope you enjoy reading this issue of Scan Magazine as much as we enjoyed making it.
Signe Hansen, Editor
8 Bodø 2024
In this month’s cover feature, we visit Bodø, the first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle. Primarily known for its spectacular landscape, the region looks set to surprise not only with a diverse and innovative programme of cultural events but also with Bodø’s vibrant culinary scene and distinctive unfettered atmosphere.
20 Classics of Scandinavian minimalism, handmade glassworks, and innovative architecture
On our design pages, we indulge in a selection of the most stunning icons of Scandinavian minimalism, discover the beauty of Venetian glasswork, and explore the way architecture can reshape how we think about housing.
26 Chocolate candy cookies in an instant and beer surprises
Sofia Nordgren, Scan Magazine’s food columnist and award-winning cookbook author, shares her delicious plant-based recipe for super easy and super delicious chocolate candy cookies. Beer sommelier Malin Norman reveals how an unexpected beer took her breath away.
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28 Norway’s buzzing art scene
From a world-renowned street artist turned coveted contemporary artist to remote art studios and galleries with international roots - this theme presents the width and breadth of the art scene in Norway.
42 Sweden’s top fashion brands
Quality, versatility, and, of course, striking designs are found aplenty in this month’s theme on Swedish fashion. Presenting some of the nation’s top brands, we explore not just the elegance and appeal of their designs but also the ethos and sustainability efforts behind their success.
64 Summer in Norway
Norway is bursting with breathtakingly stunning destinations to explore, and in this theme, we take a look at a selection of amazing stress-dampening and revitalising summer destinations. Majestic landscapes, thriving local communities, and cultural traditions as well as an array of possible outdoor activities all make for dreamy getaways from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
93 The best new events, film, and music in Scandinavia
Where to go? What to see? It’s all happening here in this month’s Culture Calendar of the best arts events in the Nordics. Meanwhile, our music columnist Karl Batterbee picks out the best new tunes in the region, film enthusiast Anders Lorenzen explores the best of Scandinavian cinema and TV, and illustrator Gabi Froden reflects on why neat socks are a must in Scandinavia.
As the calendar says April, we eagerly anticipate the latest fashion colour trends of the season. From soft browns and greens to zesty oranges and buttery yellows – get your wardrobe ready for spring.
By Åsa H. Aaberge | Press photos
Rush jeans are a timeless Hope original. These elevated five-pocket jeans are cut from a rigid 100 per cent certified organic cotton quality and come in a regular fit with a slight bootcut ending. Wear with a loose-fitting shirt or cashmere jumper.
Hope, “Room” shirt 170 euro
“Rush” Relaxed boot cut jeans 390 euro www.hope-sthlm.com
The fashion business’ obsession with red continues and this cap from Norwegian Varsity is the ideal way to top off an outfit. Durable and breathable, Athletic Sport is perfect for use during medium-intensity activities, such as sailing and hiking - or just for everyday endeavours.
Varsity Headwear, Athletic Sport cap, 80 euro www.varsityheadwear.com
Made from recycled Cashmere, this v-neck from Phi Atelier is a soft companion through spring. The chocolate brown and red details are seasonless and combine great with most colours.
PHI Atelier, sweater 420 euro www.phiatelier.com
Spring air can be harsh so a liner vest can come in handy. The bright yellow of this one from Arket is a mood-booster.
Arket, quilted liner vest, 79 euro www.arket.com
Add some greens to your outfits! Ideal for storing essentials on the go, the Cebelle leather shoulder bag will seamlessly fit into any wardrobe. Crafted from smooth leather, the design suspends from a slender adjustable strap and features By Malene Birger’s Scribble motif.
By Malene Birger, Cebelle bag, 590 euro www.bymalenebirger.com
Danish beauty brand Alûstre uses diamond infusion in their product, which amongst other things makes for an intense glossy shine finish to their nail polish. This bright and creamy peach tone offers full-colour coverage and is long-lasting, chip-resistant, and durable. Plus it offers such a nice pop of colour. The Alûstre polishes come in a ray of different other colour options too, so pick your fave. Alustre, 303 pink “Creamy peach”, 35 euro www.alustre.com
staple that can easily be dressed up or down. Wear with colourful socks until the temperature is high enough for no socks.
ATP, Patina Ballerina, 330 euro www.atpatelier.com
Shirts and jeans might not be groundbreaking, but we suggest adding some new colours to your shirts this spring.
The Edgar shirt from Danish Skall Studio is an oversized menswear-inspired shirt crafted from organic cotton poplin. The shirt comes in delicate colour options such as buttery yellow, blossom pink, and dusty sage green. All pair perfectly with denim.
Skall Studio, Edgar shirt 140 euro
Maddy jeans, 260 euro www.skallstudio.com
As the first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle, Bodø is gearing up for a year full of spectacular events. Fusing the region’s dramatic landscape, Sami heritage and innovative local forces, the events of Bodø 2024 are set to include unique combinations of nature, art, and indigenous culture. To get a feel for what the year might offer, Scan Magazine visited the northern hub and spoke to the organisers behind Bodø 2024.
By Signe HansenIt’s dark and the air is raw, but no one seems to notice as a steady stream of people are making their way towards the harbour of Bodø. Excitement is in the air. It’s the first Saturday of February, and the event which is causing people to swarm onto the streets is the opening ceremony of Bodø 2024. After a breathtaking 30 minutes centred around a magnificent floating stage, huge glowing fish sculptures, laser lights, storytelling, dance, and music, the event culminates in splendid fireworks and applause from around 20,000 spectators. Among them is the Norwegian Queen Sonja. Bodø is officially the first European Capital of Culture north of the Arctic Circle.
After the ceremony people quietly dissipate into the streets, restaurants fill up, and queues start to form. Having arrived in the dark and not seen much, this is where we notice one of the first striking things about Bodø: Even when the city is buzzing with people, the energy is calm, laidback, and friendly. Families of sev-
eral generations, groups of friends, and young couples move tables, squeeze in extra chairs, and wait for their turn with an infectious non-fuzzed, non-hurried attitude. No matter where you go, this is how it is. The next day, in the elegant yet warm and welcoming Craig Alibone Pâtisserie &
Champagneria, mothers breastfeed, and grandmothers knit as champagne, coffee and artistic cakes adorn the tables.
Maybe the widespread Zen attitude comes from living in the presence of the grand landscape of Norway’s North.
Undeniably, its natural wonders are what Bodø is best known for. However, 2024 is not about nature. Or rather it is not JUST about nature, but about showcasing the culture which this majestic landscape has fostered.
Traditionally seen as a gate to the stunning Lofoten archipelago, in more recent years, the region of Bodø has emerged as a destination in its own right. “More people are visiting because of the stunning nature and the beautiful scenery,” Marie Peyre, international communications & relations manager Bodø 2024, explains: “The steep mountains, the ocean, our wildlife, the Northern Lights, and Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal currents - our biggest attractions are the forces of nature.”
In terms of culture, Bodø is perhaps best known as the home of Norway’s 10,000 square metres National Museum of Aviation. But the fact that the city is also home
to numerous unique art galleries comes as a surprise to many. Among some of the city’s art experiences are the internationally minded gallery of photographic art NOUA, set in the centre of Bodø; the Adde
Zetterquist Art Gallery, a gallery focused on art, nature and Sami culture, set in the spectacular natural surroundings of Storjord in Saltdal; and the characteristic Bodøgaard gallery founded by the local artist Oscar Bodøgaard in 1985. The three venues aptly demonstrate the diversity of offers within the region of Bodø. “Bodø 2024, will see events take place throughout the region, and the fact that we cover such a big area means an incredibly wide span of locations, surroundings and approaches,” explains Peyre.
Moreover, in recent years, a number of impressive cultural venues such as Svømmehallen Scene, an old public pool turned into a raw and pulsating music venue, have moved the city in a new direction. “Before we had a bit of a problem in that people only wanted to talk about our nature, but what is special about Bodø is that we offer a combination of culture and nature,” stresses Peyre. “We see many artists whose work is inspired by our nature and nature is often used as the stage
for culture. In 2024, we will have a lot of events happening outdoors in unusual places. You don’t have to choose between nature and culture, you can have both.”
That Bodø 2024 was launched in the harbour of Bodø seems only appropriate since it was from there that the idea to apply for the coveted title originally arose. In 2014, the opening of Stormen Concert House and Library in the harbour sparked an idea among locals in Bodø. Inspired by this new inviting public space with breathtaking ocean views, they realised that their city could become known for more than just its beautiful landscape and Northern Lights. From that moment onwards, an impressive group of local forces united to present an application that eventually earned Bodø the title in 2019. “One of the things the jury was impressed
by was that it was such a big team effort, more than 100 people were involved in the city’s nomination,” explains Peyre. “Moreover, since the European Capital of Culture first started in 1985, 70 cities have had the title, but we are the first north of the Arctic Circle,” explains Peyre.
The city’s strong focus on Sami culture was another deciding factor in its nomination.
With 1000 cultural events taking place during 2024, the only problem when planning your visit to Bodø is when to go to make the most of it. With the alluring magic of the midnight sun, multiple outdoor events set in magnificent landscapes, and even remote hiking routes laced with cultural surprises, the summer months offer an abundance of irresistible opportunities. To celebrate the magic of the summer, Midsummer Mystery, a grand outdoor family event by the experienced performing arts company Walk the Plank will take place on 22 June.
Asked to name some of her recommendations from the extensive programme of events, Peyre says: “We have 1000 events so it’s not easy to pick just a cou-
ple! I have to mention the KLAB (Kjerringøy Land Art Biennale), which is Europe’s only land art biennale, in stunning Kjerringøy, about an hour’s drive north of Bodø. Another one is the European Cabins of Culture, a lot of people come to hike in Nordland, and they will experience a multitude of surprises in intimate settings and striking locations. Visitors can expect things such as outdoor art and performances, impro theatre, Sami lasso throwing, sanking, campfire cook-
ing, and a poetry evening and workshop with a local poet.” Peyre adds: “But also everything with Sami culture. From 19 June, our City Museum, Bådåddjo Musea, will be transformed into a Sami museum with several exhibitions of Sami art.”
Many events will be screened for the world to enjoy, and the focus on reach and longevity characterises many projects. Among them is the erection of a ten-metre-tall bronze sculpture of Petter Dass, Norway’s most famous baroque priest, which is set to create a new landmark off the Helgeland coast. Another project is a special book project created with award-winning Scottish author Stef Penney. On 4 July, she will release her new book, The Long Water, a mystery set in the region of Bodø.
Apart from its stunning landscape, the Zen-like mindset of its locals, and diverse cultural offers, what might surprise some visitors to Bodø is the city’s vibrant and international culinary scene. Trendy Asian restaurants, sky view bars, and local gourmet eateries make sure you will never be lacking choice when deciding where to spend your evening. “When I moved here, I was surprised by the diversity and quality of the city’s gastronomic offerings,” agrees Peyre. “What I heard is that it has just exploded over the last ten years. I think it has a lot to do with the fact
that people here like to eat out and do so a lot. It has created a much broader offering than one might expect.”
For the foodies, the region’s numerous festivals also include, ArktiskMat, Norway’s smallest food festival in the quaint Sjøgata in Mosjøen. “It has a very big international network, but because it is so small, you get to talk to everyone, even top chefs,” says Peyre.
The transformation of Bodø’s culinary scene is in many ways characteristic of the development the city has been through during the last decades. From 1973, the city was widely known as the base of Northern Norway’s largest military airbase and for that reason often associated with the Cold War. However, in 2022, after years of downsizing, the airbase shut down completely. “When it was taken away, we decided to turn things around – to transform the image of Bodø from one associated with the Cold War to one associated with cool culture,”
says Peyre and rounds off: “We are not an isolated outpost at the edge of the civilized world, but a vibrant city where lots of stuff is happening.”
For the full programme of Bodø 2024 please visit the website below.
www.bodo2024.no
Instagram: @bodo2024
Facebook: Bodø2024
X: twitter.com/bodo2024
Population: Approximately 53,000 inhabitants.
Bodø’s weather events: From 1 June to 13 July, the sun doesn’t set in Bodø — a phenomenon known as the midnight sun. From September to April, the Northern Lights make regular appearances on clear nights.
Geography: The region of Bodø consists of eleven municipalities centrally located in Nordland County. To the south, the region borders Helgeland, to the north Ofoten and to the east Sweden.
Flight Connections: Bodø is served by Bodø Airport (BOO), which offers domestic flights to major cities in Norway, including Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. Additionally, there are international connections to destinations such as Copenhagen and Stockholm. The airport is a 20-minute walk from the city centre.
Train Connections: Bodø is the northern terminus of the Nordland Line, a scenic railway that connects the city to Trondheim and other towns along the coast. The train journey is known as one of the world’s most scenic.
The Karl Erik Harr musem at Kjerringøy in Nordland breaks all the rules that usually govern museums. That’s why it is becoming an attraction quite out of the ordinary.
By Eva-Kristin U. PedersenMuseums are often large, imposing buildings, strategically placed to attract as many visitors as possible. Moreover, museums more often than not are a tribute to groups of or singular artists that are no longer with us. In defiance of all these unwritten rules of museums, the Norwegian painter Karl Erik Harr, a few years back, decided to open a museum of his own work. Moreover, he wanted the
museum to be placed on the remote island of Kjerringøy in the north of Norway.
“I wanted the paintings to be where they were created”, Harr explains. While he was born in Harstad, Harr moved to Kjerringøy in 1978 and his atelier is located only a short distance from where the museum is.
“I believe there is a value in showing paintings in a picturesque location, much like enjoying the Skagen-painters at Skagen in Denmark, or the great European impressionists on the European continent. Besides, Kjerringøy is actually only half an hour by car from Bodø, the second largest city in Northern Norway,” the artist smiles.
Karl Erik Harr is a renowned painter, and the illustrator of many Knut Hamsun’s books as well as the works of the baroque Norwegian poet Peter Dass – perhaps the first artist to praise the northernmost parts of Norway – and recognised across the world for his art. Harr’s work spans several decades and includes not only paintings but also several books – many of which are available for sale in the museum.
“I wanted the museum to encompass all of my work, and the writing has always accompanied the painting”, Harr stresses.
A profound love for northern Norway
Be it literature or visual art, Karl Erik Harr’s work is kept together by a very evident red thread, which is the love for and dedication to northern Norway. Because of his efforts to showcase this part of the country throughout the world, the Norwegian King has ordained Harr a Knight of the Order of St. Olav – the most prestigious recognition in Norway.
In recent years. Northern Norway has become a magnet for outdoor tourism, attracting visitors from around the globe eager to emerge themselves in the mesmerising nature in the far north by taking part in activities like whale safaris, hiking, skiing, dog sleighing and diving
in arctic waters. Meanwhile, the art that northern Norway has inspired, more often than not gets transported away and exhibited elsewhere.
The Karl Erik Harr-museum at Kjerringøy aims to counterweigh that tendency. The
art museum adds a different, artistic and intellectual dimension to the adventure that tourism in the north has become. And while Kjerringøy might seem a remote outpost to modern city dwellers, the island actually has a long history as a nexus between the far north and the continent. From 1700 onwards, the island was an important trading post for fish going south and foodstuff and other supplies going north. The buildings of the trading post are still visitable, and part of the Nordland Museum of Natural History.
Paintings of landscapes that no longer exist
While the museum’s main exhibition is permanent, this year, a part of it is dedicated to Karl Erik Harr’s contribution to
Bodø 2024 (the Norwegian city will be the European capital of culture in 2024). The section includes a series of paintings
Harr made during expeditions to the polar sea and to places such as Bjørnøya, Spitsbergen, Hopen and Greenland. Several of the landscapes he painted, no longer exist.
“The ice has melted because of climate change. I had no idea when I painted them, but it does add an extra dimension to these paintings,” the artist underlines.
Harr explains that he wants this exhibition to create awareness about what is happening to the Arctic areas. Most of the paintings were created on fishing vessels as he was travelling. Photographers and filmmakers might do, but very few people travel that far north to actually paint, making Harr’s work quite unique.
When asked how he feels when watching the paintings now, knowing what is happening to the landscapes that inspired them, Harr says that it makes him feel grief.
“It is a feeling of loss. I feel nostalgic about something that used to exist but that is no more. I hope to have captured something that we need to take care of –what’s left of it. Fortunately, that process has started, but I’d like for my paintings to be a reminder of how important it is,” Harr explains.
Group visits throughout the year
Since its opening in 2019, the Karl Erik Harr-museum has been a valued addition to the local community at Kjerringøy. While it is, at times, a challenge
to attract more visitors, especially given the relatively short tourist season at that latitude, the museum also caters for groups. Many businesses and organisations choose Northern Norway for courses, team-building exercises and the like, and a visit to the Harr Museum adds a thoughtful, artistic touch to their trip. Full-time opening hours are only observed in the summer, but groups are welcome throughout the year, and the museum collaborates with a nearby hotel to organise the visit.
The staff at the Harr Museum is happy to provide guided tours and explanations and can also organise for the visit to include receptions and servings of local food. Concerts with local artists are also very popu-
lar – the museum provides a perfect setting for musical events. During the summer, to cater for foreign visitors, in addition to English and Norwegian, guides are available in French and Italian too.
Moreover, while the Harr Museum is a museum in all senses and much of the exhibition is permanent, visitors also have the chance to purchase original works and reproductions, as well as many of Karl Erik Harr’s books in the museum store (and in the newly added website).
A token to take home, perhaps, from what must be one of the most memorable little museums in the world.
www.harrmuseet.no
Find serenity in the nature haven of Følvika Northern Retreat
Escape to the north of Norway, where Følvika Northern Retreat’s igloos offer a chance to breathe clean, fresh air and unwind in beautiful, natural surroundings. With private first-row seats to the northern lights, as well as the midnight sun in the summer, you can experience a full, yet comfortable immersion in nature.
By Celina Tran | Photos: Følvika Northern RetreatMany see the summer holiday as the perfect time to exchange the hustle and bustle of everyday life for a bit of relaxation and quiet time, but, unfortunately, it rarely plays out that way. Other than the stress of planning the getaway itself, the tourist-packed faraway islands and cities people often look to for an escape, might further dampen the mood.
However, if you’re looking for a setup that will foster true relaxation, you needn’t look further than the island of Sandhornøya in Northern Norway, just above the Arctic Circle. Here, the local couple, Lill Hilde and Ola Kaldager, have established the perfect escape.
“Our plexiglass igloos have a full view of all of the surroundings, with the ocean ahead and the forest behind. Positioned in a way where the terrain doesn’t feel intruding, guests can, from the warm, cosy safety of the igloos, enjoy all sights, regardless of the weather,” says Lill Hilde.
“Personally, I prefer to be in the igloo when the weather is bad. There is something so magical about it,” she adds.
She explains that she established Følvika Northern Retreat as a part of her wish to offer local overnight stays and experiences to guests from all over, showing off Gildeskål Municipality and the island’s undiscovered potential.
“We put up the first igloo right before the pandemic came, and the other one a year later. It turned out the concept was very Covid-friendly, and we initially had a lot of visitors from the region. Nowadays, we have visitors from all over, but particularly international guests who chase northern lights,” she says.
And Miss Aurora Borealis does not disappoint. From the igloos, guests may experience a range of different unique natural phenomena, depending on the season. Untouched by air pollution, the
clear sky above Følvika offers everything from those dancing, green lights and a clear, starry sky, to the magical summer midnight sun and the many colours of the morning hours. If you’re lucky, some wild friends might even join you! Other guests report observations of sea eagles, moose, reindeer, otters, and foxes.
“It’s a good way to immerse yourself in nature, but in a comfortable way,” explains Lill Hilde.
Sandhornøya also has plenty of opportunities to escape more actively into nature, and Lill Hilde encourages guests to explore the beaches and the Sandhornet mountain nearby.
www.northernretreat.no
Facebook: Følvika - Northern Reatreat
Instagram: @folvikanorthernretreat
Once you have visited a certain number of Scandinavian homes, you will start to notice an almost eery similarity in décor. Scandinavians love the simplicity and elegance of Scandinavian minimalism, and it is not an exaggeration to say that almost every middle or upper-class family will have at least one of the movement’s iconic designs in their home. We present a selection of our favourites.
The fact that the elegant J39 has been in continuous production for more than 75 years speaks volumes about its timeless appeal. The chair was designed, in 1947, by Børge Mogensen, one of the leading figures in Danish modern design and the founder of Fredericia Furniture, which still produces it today. Simple, versatile, and beautiful, it is the epitome of minimalism and is sure to add a touch of Scandinavian sophistication to any living room.
www.fredericia.com
From 520 euro
By Signe Hansen | Press photos
Good lighting is essential to Scandinavian minimalism so perhaps it is not surprising that one of the most popular designs of the movement is a lamp. In 1958, Poul Henningsen crafted the PH 5 with his renowned shade system, ensuring soft, soothing, and entirely glare-free illumination. This anniversary edition, coated in matte white outside and pale pink inside, emits a gentle, warm glow. The metallic brass supports add a touch of elegance, rendering it not just a luminary but a piece of art.
www.louispoulsen.com
From 995 pounds
The legendary Savoy Vase was created by Alvar Aalto, a Finnish architect and designer renowned for his organic approach to architecture and furniture design. Today, his vase will be recognised by every Finn you meet. The vase is one of the many designs of Scandinavian minimalism produced by the globally renowned Finnish design brand Iittala.
www.Iittala.com
From: 199.90 euros
A strong contender for the title of the most “famous chair in the world”, the Wishbone Chair, is literally found in every second upper and upper-middle-class home you step into in Denmark. The chair’s elegant shape and the prominence of natural materials are all characteristic of the movement of Scandinavian minimalism. Moreover, it makes the chair not just timeless in expression but also in quality as proven by the many vintage editions of the chair still being resold.
www.carlhansen.com
From: 551 pounds
Pelican, Finn Juhl
Less famous than the EggTM Chair, the Pelican Chair by Danish designer Finn Juhl carries some of the same iconic characteristics. The organic shapes and one-piece structure of Juhl’s designs, however, also made them very hard to mass produce, meaning that for decades, many only existed in a couple of handmade units. Fortunately, more than half a century after it was first created, House of Finn Juhl managed to put the graceful Pelican into production, proving that Juhl’s designs are still strikingly modern, half surrealistic sculpture, but 100 per cent furniture.
www.finnjuhl.com
Pelican, from around 5,500 pounds.
You cannot write about Scandinavian minimalism, without including the EggTM Chair. It is probably not too far-fetched to say that, at least in the North-Western hemisphere of the world, this is the most famous piece of furniture ever designed. With its smooth curves, distinctive form, and superb comfort, this design icon is not just for decoration but the perfect addition to any reading nook. Despite its somewhat hefty price tag, it is impossible not to love.
www.fritzhansen.com
From: 7,099 pounds
Entering Glød Glas Studio just outside Nexø is like walking into a candy store for the eyes. More art than craft, vases and bowls combine colours, translucent patterns and soft shapes into unique demonstrations of human creativity and century-old handcraft. This summer, the studio will be open for visitors throughout the week.
By Signe HansenSeven years ago, Danish Tobias Sode and Norwegian Lene Jacobsen bought an old bus garage and former seed storage on Balka beach, just outside Nexø. Today, they have turned the derelict building into a stunning glass studio, where huge wooden beams and glass cases soaked in natural light, frame a striking display of the owners’ unique glasswork. And, visitors can not only view and buy the glasswork but also explore the workshop and work process. “Of course, our main
focus is on creating, we are an active workshop, but we love having visitors and are very happy to answer questions as we work,” says Jacobsen.
Directly translated, the name Glød means ‘ember’, but it also carries within it the meaning of a spark that keeps something alive; that spark is what fuelled Sode and Jacobsen through the six-year-long process of creating their own glass studio, which opened last spring.
“Since opening, we have had a lot of people who seem quite blown away when they enter our studio; they are surprised by what they see. That’s a good feeling when people see the beauty in what you do,” adds Sode. ”There is a lot of glass on Bornholm, and many people walk in here expecting a display of glasses and water carafes, and we don’t have that at all – we do vases and bowls. But what really captures people’s attention is the technique.”
The technique which creates the striking colours on display is known as the Venetian technique and has been practised for centuries on the small island of Murano in Italy. It is, however, a highly challenging technique, which it has taken the two glassblowers years to refine.
Having met at the Swedish glass-blowing school in Kosta (now closed) in 2001, Sode and Jacobsen quickly realised that they were both keen to do more with their craft than work in a regular glass factory. Thus, after graduating, they set out to explore new schools and techniques around the world. Along the way, they got more experience with the Venetian technique. “I have always been fascinated by that way of working with glass; it is extremely advanced, and I longed to master it. But it takes a lot of practice,” says Sode.
One of the barriers to working with the technique is the high cost of the energy used by the ovens necessary in glass manufacturing. “When you work with glass the way we do, it is inevitable that each piece turns into a unique little work of art,” explains Sode.
Upon completing their travels, the couple ended up in Ebeltoft in Denmark, where Sode worked with Finn Lynggaard, one of the first Danes to work with glass as an art form. After a couple of moves, they eventually became part of Bornholm’s thriving artisan community, where they have now lived and worked for more than 15 years.
But while the opening of their glass studio, might be the culmination of a long journey, Sode and Jacobsen continue to explore and push their craft. “This summer, we will be working on doing larger works,” says Sode. We did not get around to that last year because it is a very complex and expensive process, but it is something we want to explore more.”
Moreover, the couple will be working to expand the studio’s design line, a col-
lection of stylish craft pieces affordable for everyone. “We love to make unique pieces of art,” explains Sode and concludes: “But we also want the people who are not able to pay 3000 DKK for a vase to be able to bring something home with them.”
www.glodglasstudio.dk
Instagram: @glodglasstudio
Facebook: glodglasstudio
Glød Glass Studio is located by the Balka Beach, two kilometres outside Nexø, Bornholm
The studio will be at the Frue Plads marked in Copenhagen 8-10 August 2024.
Works can also be viewed via the studio’s Instagram and website.
Rethinking the way people live to dissolve the stigma against apartment buildings and increase sustainability, Swiss-based Karamuk Kuo has created both controversial and award-winning projects. Co-founder Jeannette Kuo discusses the art of pushing boundaries without breaking with traditions or regulations.
Since its foundation in 2010, Karamuk Kuo has been aiming to contribute to the conversation about the built environment. It does so by translating experimental ideas and concepts into a real context.
“We are always very conscious that when we work with a client and a place, we are part of that place and responding to its traditions and culture. We’re not trying to radically change things, but looking for new ways to respond to old problems and make changes from the inside,” explains Kuo.
Like their team of 17, Kuo and her founding partner, Ünal Karamuk, both have
international backgrounds, having lived in and worked in various locations, and that is, says Kuo, a great advantage. “Because we are always outsiders, we can see things from very different perspectives. But it also opens us up to be curious about things and empathise with people more easily.”
“For us, architecture and design can be very international. But building something is a very local act, you are engaging with local knowledge, economy, culture, regulations, and traditions.”
In addition to their work, since 2006, both partners have been teaching at various universities, including Harvard, MIT, and
EPF Lausanne. Jeannette is currently a Professor of Architecture and Construction at TU Munich.
When Kuo and Karamuk met in Boston, they quickly realised they shared a common ambition, a desire to enact change from the inside, little by little, to gradually move towards a more sustainable way of building.
“We, as a collective culture, have been careless in focusing solely on building growth without contemplating the form of living and the quality of life it generates. Many areas were developed without considering the implications of longer commutes or limited access to communities and infrastructures that should be integral to everyday life,” says Kuo. “I believe as we progress, these topics will become increasingly important. How much space does each person truly need? Can we think more intelligently about our relationship with space and how much is needed for comfortable living?”
Among the studio’s most successful and controversial work are two housing projects that radically rethink the use of space and current practices to address sustainable development.
Initiated in 2016, Cham Apartments in Switzerland turned a small triangular plot in a peri-urban area into a successful housing project, despite strict regulations and highly contentious neighbours.
“What was interesting for us was the lot’s very triangular shape, with a tip of less than four meters. That forced us to think
about what kind of apartments you could bring there and what that would mean in terms of living. We designed two types: one at the tip, which has common areas that take advantage of the panoramic view. The other apartment unit was the opposite; it had an undefined space in the middle that connected all the rooms and allowed tenants to appropriate and use the spaces differently.”
Despite strong initial protests from neighbours, who challenged any new construction on the site, the completed project has been embraced by the community. Most likely, thanks to the building’s timeless materials and expression. Though quiet and not loud, it has very specific moments, for instance, the exterior form seems to change as the spectator moves around it.
Like Cham Apartments, House on the Slope was met with initial resistance from the neighbouring affluent suburban community. Because, while House on a Slope does indeed look like just that, a single-family house, it is an apartment building taking full advantage of the different levels to create five comfortable living spaces for not one, but five households. Today, the project is inhabited by a diverse group of tenants including a family, a bachelor, and a young couple.
“Previously, the way of designing apartments was to be as generic as possible so everybody could fit. The problem is you end up with apartments that lack quality. In this case, we have five apartments that are all very specific. Apartments that perhaps some people would
not like to live in, but others would love,” explains Kuo.
Moreover, all units are designed to create a luxurious feeling and easy access to the outdoor area, with a garden unit sinking into the ground, large windows, and long terraces. “Normally, you don’t think about things like that when you think about living in an apartment; those are qualities you would expect in a house. And that’s how we approach it - How do we make living in an apartment feel like living in a house?” explains Kuo and rounds off: “We need to start working on the stigma towards apartment buildings.”
www.karamukkuo.com
Instagram: @karamukkuo
Facebook: karamukkuo
Karamuk Kuo works on projects of a range of scales - from spatial installations and exhibitions to complex multi-family housing projects, educational institutions, and public buildings.
Inspired by everyday life, Icelandic nature, and geometric forms, Icelandic Gerða Kristín Lárusdóttir creates authentic, handmade jewellery for any day or event.
Originally trained as a beautician, in her mid-thirties, Lárusdóttir realised she wanted to do something different – she wanted to make something with her hands, to create. Without wavering, she applied to the Technical College of Reykjavik and got her degree as a goldsmith in 2019. She got a diploma from the same school in design.
Today, she sells her jewellery through her company Mint Jewelry online as well
as at Gallery Grásteinn in downtown Reykjavik. All the pieces are handmade. ”I really enjoy the process of making, and I want people to be able to see that it is handmade. It is not perfect - every piece has unique little dents,” she says.
Among Grásteinn’s most popular pieces is her Ær (Sheep) collection, in which a sheep tooth replica, created from a cast of a sheep tooth found by the artist, takes centre stage.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: Siggaella
The collection is one of five collections sold online, but Grásteinn also enjoys producing one-of-a-kind pieces. “I like doing unique pieces rather than mass-producing things, and I experiment a lot with materials and techniques,” she explains.
The pieces in Mint Jewelry’s collection are in 925 silver and 14 kt gold, along with gemstones.
You will find Mint Jewelry in Gallery Grásteinn, kólavörðustígur 4 , Reykjavik. www.mintjewelry.is
A few weeks ago, I treated myself to an inspiring weekend of culture and catching up with friends in Stockholm. As it turns out, it also involved quite the beery surprise. Let me tell you all about it.
The weekend’s main event was an author’s talk; the fabulous, ultra-talented, and as it turns out also very funny, Zadie Smith was in town to chat about her new book The Fraud (last year’s best and most surprising read, by the way). Next up was a visit to Fotografiska, the contemporary museum of photography. Having topped up on cultural inspiration with Cindy Sherman’s Tapestries consisting of Instagram selfies as woven textiles and Henriette Sabroe Ebbesen’s colourful and abstract images in Kaleidoscope, my friends and I were ready for a beer.
Not far from the museum, you will find a number of good craft beer bars including Stigbergets Fot. In the unbroken thirst for surprises, I simply asked the bartender what was “new and fresh” on tap. He brought me something I wouldn’t usually order, and
already after the first sip I was quite overwhelmed. Possibly also because of the comfort of escaping the chilly downpour outside, and after saying “ooh” and “aah” far too many times at the museum.
I would never have predicted that the cheeky bartender would bring me a Piña Colada Tropical PULP Sour. But wow! Future Islands by Elmeleven is loaded with fresh tropical fruit such as mango, pineapple and guava, mixed with smooth and silky coconut milk. It was fruity but not too sweet, tangy but not too sour, like a light and creamy dessert, and not too powerful at a decent five per cent ABV. On the brewery’s Instagram, I later saw a post about this being “the craziest beer” they’ve ever canned. And now I’m hooked, but I guess that’s the danger of surprises.
By Malin Norman
Couldn’t we all use a simple, yet delicious cookie recipe, suitable for more or less any occasion? These crunchy, yet chewy caramel cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious. They are perfect for any kid’s party, but they are just as appreciated by any adult with a childish love for cookies…and candy. No matter who we share these cookies with, they always seem to disappear in the blink of an eye. Why not make a batch and stock up the freezer and you’ll always have something delicious for unexpected guests, no matter their age? Ready in less than an hour and easy to make so the kids can help too!
By Sofia NordgrenAMOUNT: makes about 30 cookies
INGREDIENTS:
100 g butter or vegan margarine, room tempered
2 tbsp syrup
3/4 dl | 70 g caster sugar
1/2 tsp bourbon vanilla powder
2 3/4 dl | 165 g all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
150-200 g of your favourite (meltable) chocolate candies
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Stir together the margarine, syrup, sugar and vanilla.
2. In a separ ate bowl, combine flour and baking soda.
3. A dd the flour mix to the margarine mix and combine.
4. Divide the batter into two parts and roll out to about 30 cm long rolls and flatten somewhat.
5. P lace the candies lengthwise in the middle of each roll.
6. Bake at 175°C for 10-13 minutes until slightly golden around the edges.
7. Let cool for a few minutes, then cut into diagonal cookies.
8. Let cool completely.
Winner of the best Regional Cookbook at the Guild of Food Writers Awards 2022, Sofia Nordgren lives with her family in a small town in Sweden, working as a photographer, content creator and plant-based cookbook author. Cooking and baking have always been a hobby of hers and on top of that, she has a passion for nature, gardening and slow, seasonal living. Foggy mornings, cinnamon buns, and playing with her kids are among her favourite things in life. Sofia Nordgren also runs the successful blog, The Nordic Kitchen
For almost a decade, Andreas Dolk, Norway’s most recognised stencil artist, has been evolving a new style of artistic creation. Scan Magazine talks to the artist about his current obsession ‒ artworks that transform the destructive power of a car crash into creations of energy.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: Kristian NichollsFor two-and-a-half years, artist Andreas Dolk (birth name, Andreas Hamran Færø) worked with an engineer to realise his vision of a machine that could help him recreate the effect of a car crash. Allowing him to smash metal sculptures into plates of aluminium with the same pressure as ten SUVs, there was no blueprint for the device. “I had no idea if it was going to work,” says the 45-year-old. “There was quite a big chance that I lost two-and-a-half years and a lot of money, but I needed to do it – once I had the idea, I couldn’t live without knowing.”
Today, the result hangs on the wall of Færø’s home. It is an explosion of energy, colour, and destructive power, in his
own words “a play with shadow and light, good and evil” – and the first of the artist’s works ever to make it onto the walls of his home. It is one of the few finished works in his new series, Exposure Paintings; four smaller works sold immediately to collectors as did a limited edition of 40 prints. But how did an artist, for many years recognised for his anonymously-created humorous Banksy-like street art, end up spending years evolving an art style that in his own words “looks like a canvas that has been put through war”?
Studying to become a mechanic, in his youth, Færø didn’t have the slightest idea that he would someday become one of Norway’s best-known artists. Even when his then-teacher, who saw him spending most of his time in class drawing, sug-
gested that he apply for art school, he did not consider it a real possibility. “I thought – you can’t really do anything with art, and even if you could, I never thought I would be good enough for it,” he says.
Mechanics was not his thing either though, and, later, by what he describes as pure coincidence, Færø ended up in a graphic design course that took him to Melbourne. Here he found the inspiration that would take him onto a path of artistic adventure. “In Melbourne, I noticed the street art popping up, and a guy in my class had the skills to do stencils so that’s how I got inspired to try that,” he explains.
Soon, Færø was travelling all over Europe to do his work. “I saved up for a car and one of my friends and I started driv-
ing from city to city, sleeping in the car and painting at night,” he says. “We met a lot of crazy people, and saw a lot of crazy stuff. It was an adventure.”
The Banksy-like stencils all over Europe’s cities quickly began gathering attention. So much so that, in 2004, Banksy invited Færø, then only known as “Dolk” (dagger in Norwegian) to participate in making limited edition silkscreen prints in his shop called POW (Pictures on walls) in London.
Progressing into contemporary art
Færø, the street artist, remained known only as Dolk up until 2018 when he, chose to reveal his real identity through an interview, a new website, and an Instagram page under the name Andreas Dolk. The revelation was extensively covered by the Norwegian media under headlines such as “Dolk, the mythical street artist is a father of two”.
Indeed, Færø was a father of two and had, by then, long been making what he calls “a decent living” from his art. Selling his work through galleries and auctions with price tags of around 100.000-200.000 NOK, his exhibitions were quickly selling out. In 2012, two of his print editions sold out in seconds for more than two million Norwegian kroner.
But though he was on a path of success with his stencil art, he continued to experiment with other media as well and, in 2016, he debuted his first contemporary art exhibition, Rip on/Rip off. “All the while I succeeded in getting noticed and earning money with what I did, I was experimenting in the backroom with something that no one knew about,” he explains. “While all my new ideas came from the street, an urban environment, they just didn’t fit into my stencil folder -the ideas did not match my expression. Listening to my inner voice, I knew I had
to change my style, so I followed my own progression into contemporary art.”
Since 2016, Færø has been experimenting with works on aluminium, and in 2020, presented In Flux, an exhibition of abstract works painted on, and then scratched off, aluminium plates. “I was trying to create and destroy at the same time,” he explains. “The painting and the scratching in aluminium created an interesting movement of light, and the In Flux style is the one I have been pushing for three years now. It led to the Exposure Paintings, which I am now working on.”
Indeed, despite the different styles of expression all of Færø’s work is bound together by a continuous evolution of
For almost a decade, Andreas Dolk, Norway’s most recognised street artist, has been evolving a new style.
style, inspired by the urban environment. Specifically, the Exposure paintings were inspired by the marks of paint left on a wall after a car crashed into it. But while the method is inspired by the exterior world, the result represents something much more subjective, the internal struggle of the artist. “Being an artist is much like banging your head against the wall – in your mind, you are never good enough, never quite getting where you want to be – and lots of doubting. I used that as inspiration - that you will never be happy with your work if you are a true artist – and that led to me diving into my new style where I combine destruction and creation. I do not look at my works as very destruc-
tive though, they are more complex, like strange self-portraits,” Færø explains.
The title for this series of works ”Exposure Paintings” came about after the first crash was completed because the result, in Færø’s words, looked like a figure captured in a photograph with a long exposure time. Unique in their expression, the works invoke multiple associations, like debris put in a system, explosive energy or a controlled wreck, but at the core is the universal condition of life – creation through destruction, and it is one that Færø is intent on pushing even further. ”I can say I found my style. What I have been after all these years and am still pursuing is pure energy.”
From May 2024, early works by
Andreas Dolk will be exhibited as part of the Banksy & Street Art: The Early Years exhibtion at MACA Museum in Copenhagen. The exhibition includes works by Banksy alongside many of the most important Street Artists of the 21st Century.
Website: www.dolk.no www.andreasdolk.com
Instagram: @d0lk
In the 21st century, returning to nature can feel like a breath of fresh air. Norwaybased Orsolya Haarberg is a visionary photographer and designer whose hands and lens take the forgotten materials and natural sights all around us and immortalise them as art.
By Celina Tran | Photos: Orsolya HaarbergIn our contemporary world, we find ourselves amidst a modern landscape bursting with blaring lights, loud noises, cityscapes, all while holding the ever-expansive universe in the palm of our hands. For better or for worse, we have access to an unlimited amount of content, from the simplest ideas to the most fantastical out-of-this-world art made by artificial intelligence. While this can be extremely exciting, it can also become rather overwhelming after a while.
Orsolya Haarberg is a photographer and designer whose craft offers a small escape from all the noise – a return to nature through art and photography. With
almost two decades of professional photography experience under her belt, Haarberg established Fjellheimen Galleri in Vågå in 2020 with the intention to give her abundance of art and photography a home.
Adventures to last a lifetime
Until 2017, Haarberg was constantly travelling. With her then-husband, she took on freelance assignments for different employers, such as the US National Geographic magazine, and set out to capture the great sights of her adventures.
“We travelled and photographed everything from Iceland to Swedish Laponia. My latest adventure on behalf of National Geographic I did alone. It looked at the last primaeval forests of Europe,” she says.
After having travelled so much, however, Haarberg decided it was time for a new chapter in her story. In 2018, she moved to Vågå, Norway, to lay down roots. Here, she would also eventually open Fjellheimen Galleri.
“In addition to wanting to build a life where I could live and work in Vågå,
I thought it was about time I took a step back from travelling out of consideration for the very same environment I’ve spent so long photographing,” she says.
While Haarberg had set on settling, this would not come without its challenges. Only two years after moving to Vågå, the pandemic arrived, changing things as she knew it.
“As a freelancer without state support, I had to be creative to keep my head above water,” she explains. “Thus, Fjellheimen Galleri was born. It became a way for me
to make a living out of my passion, all in my new hometown.”
Bringing nature’s aesthetic into the home
Through her work, Haarberg strives to capture the world in the most honest and raw way possible. With each photo, she aims to capture what she describes as the very essence of the photograph, namely the thing that touched her upon discovering the motif.
“I love seeking new adventures and challenges in nature, especially the mountains,” she says. “I’ll spend a few days in a tent on the mountain tops, observing and photographing. Sometimes, I’ll sit there for ages, simply waiting for the right light.”
She goes on to explain that mountains and height offer a completely different silence, beauty and perspective, as well as the thrilling adventure of the unknown.
“Height, in particular, makes even the most famous scenes appear different. Rivers glitter like ribbons of silver, slipping into lakes that look like mirrors. The land can become abstract patterns and unexpected images.”
In addition to her photography, Haarberg uses design and craft to bring people closer to nature in a domestic setting. Using organic forms and shapes from nature, such as antlers, her line REiN is a selection of functional interior art and furniture.
“Through this new concept, I wanted to bring nature’s aesthetic into the home,” she says. “The antlers come from free-ranging reindeer herds in Jotunheimen, sustainably using a resource that would otherwise have been wasted.”
Over the last three years, her creations have gone from small, simpler decorative pieces such as candle holders or hangers, to larger, more complex pieces, such as lamps and tables.
“The best thing is that each product is completely unique, both in form and appearance, thanks to the natural variation in size and colour of antlers.”
Haarberg adds that she feels privileged that she’s able to follow her intuitions and continue living in the present. Going forward, she’s excited to develop new ideas and products that’ll touch and inspire viewers and customers.
www.fjellheimengalleri.no www.rein-design.no
Instagram: @orsolyahaarberg
Facebook: Orsolya Haarberg
Photography and Design
To see some of Haarberg’s work, visit her Stille Natur exhibition which will take place in Ullinsvin Gallery and Parsonage, Vågå, from 22 June to 8 September.
Based in Norway’s vibrant capital, Oslo, Guttestreker is an art duo whose canvas serves as a platform for socio-political discourse and creativity. With each stroke and shade, the two artists offer a raw, honest, and fascinating insight into our contemporary life and world.
By Celina Tran | Photos: GuttestrekerTwo creative minds bursting with ideas can cause more trouble and clashes than results, so most artists tend to be lone wolves. However, when and if a creative duo truly finds a balance, unimaginable art can be born. Enter Guttestreker, a Norwegian art duo made up of Petter Malterud Grøndahl and Christoffer Kroge Christensen.
Working together, the duo use their abilities and ideas to create a fantastical and colourful oeuvre that navigates and explores nature, humanity, and of course, our relationship with the planet. “While it can be challenging when we want different things for a piece, I feel like we’ve found a good solution where the person who came up with the idea holds the
reigns while the other person offers suggestions,” says Christensen.
“This is what we burn for, so obviously disagreements can occur, but I think the years of cooperation and friendship have created a foundation of trust and leniency towards the other,” adds Grøndahl.
The two of them have developed their own distinctive traits within illustration, rooted in each of their areas of interest, which they combine to make their shared art. Grøndahl, who is an avid surfer and ski enthusiast, has a strong concern for the environment and how humans de-
stroy it, hence his work is deeply inspired by nature. Christensen is passionate about human rights and often finds his motifs in humans and the buildings in which they exist. “In addition, Petter is really good with colours, while I have a good understanding of perspective, so combined, we have everything we need to realise our visions,” says Christensen.
The idea that would become Guttestreker was born in a childhood bedroom on a late autumn evening in 2015, long before the duo could even imagine what they one day would become. “We both had to work a lot alongside the art to make ends meet for four years,” says Grøndahl. “None of us have a formal art education, so it was practically impossible to get any exhibition spaces in any of the established galleries.”
“We put up our own exhibitions though,” adds Christensen. “First in our living rooms at home, and then at bars – and then also in the basement of the Hells Angels in Alnabru.” But after four years of blood, sweat, and tears, Guttestreker finally opened the doors to their very own gallery in Frydelundgata 17, in the colourful, creative hub of St. Hanshaugen in Oslo.
“Since then, our work has been featured in the biggest galleries in Norway, and now
we’re working towards our very own solo exhibition in the art district of Chelsea, New York City, in late May!” says Grøndahl. “We’re very excited to show the rest of the world what we’re good for,” he says.
A boundless world of storytelling
To Grøndahl and Christensen, their art is first and foremost a type of storytelling as well as a way to communicate a message. Inspired by anything from literature and news articles to conversations and sunsets, Guttestreker come together to develop their ideas into visual forms of storytelling. “We construct a story for each work based on the relevant themes and topics and tell them as a performance next to the artwork,” says Christensen.
An example of this unique storytelling and visual commentary is found in a painting by the duo inspired by the polarizing wolf debate in Norway. Contending over whether endangered wolves should be shot or left alone, it’s a complicated topic that has split cities and rural areas in Norway, with different arguments about safety, nature, and animal rights popping up on all sides.
“We also like to leave easter eggs referring to our other works in each illustration, so in the wolf one, there’re at least six references to other images, such
as the head of the giant in the piece It’s Time,” says Grøndahl. “It’s Time is a piece that tries to show how we humans have distanced ourselves from nature and the other animals.”
Christensen explains that their art serves as a type of parallel universe which attempts to explain humanity’s missing ability to take care of the Earth and its inhabitants. Using recurring symbolism and motifs, they encourage the viewers to find and start conversations on their own.
A symbol that pops up in several of their pieces is a doomsday grandfather clock, which first appeared in the previously mentioned piece It’s Time (2016). “It represents the damage humans inflict on nature, and how we’re doing it to the point where it’s impossible for the environment to heal or regenerate. The clock can show up anywhere, in any of our pieces,” says Christensen.
Guttestreker want their work to remain timeless and captivating across decades, homes, and spaces, and hope it continues to spark ideas and conversations for as long as they’re around.
www.guttestreker.com
Instagram: @guttestreker
Facebook: Guttestreker
Located in the region of Lillesand off the southern coast of Norway, Tove Hertzberg capitalises on her proximity to water to explore one of the themes most important in her paintings – the sea.
By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Galleri ToveHertzberg, a Norwegian artist creating images that are simultaneously feminine, strong, and vulnerable, exhibits her work on both her online platform Galleri Tove and in her summer gallery on Brekkestø, near the inland waterways of Lillesand.
“I was born creative and have been living and working as an artist since January 2012,” says Hertzberg. “In order to create a permanent space for my art, my website, Galleri Tove, was established in March 2012. Besides exhibiting my work internationally and in my exhibition space, Galleri Tove is the place where I communicate all the work I’ve done.”
The connection between the sea and women
Galleri Tove is rich in colourful paintings that delve into what it means to be female and what it means to be alive. “I work in large formats,” says Hertzberg. “What
preoccupies me is the sea and women and what they have in common. I explore what is life-giving, both what is available and what is perhaps unused. I want to portray female images from the inside out and draw parallels between the sea and the woman, as well as the patient, unbalanced feminine against a masculine world.”
Often, Hertzberg feels that the paintings that have come to her organically are the most popular and sell immediately. “There is something about authenticity,” she muses. “I always think that when I create a work dedicated to someone very special, it will find its owner when the time is right.”
Hertzberg is also interested in the interplay between the sea and light. “Every day, I go down to the beach,” she says. “I find peace and study the movements and interaction between the water and the sky. I collect water samples and create crystallographic images, inspired by Veda Austin in New Zealand and Masaru Emoto from Japan. Here, I find a voice that manifests itself in the form of ge-
ometry and messages. I choose to bring them out and present them in my art.”
A special place to live and visit Hertzberg has lived on the island for five years and still wonders at her surroundings and revels in exploring them. “Living on a small island with water around you on all sides gives you a very special feeling, to hear the sea roaring and the waves crashing. I yearned for this all my life,” she says. “The area comes alive in the summer. Many people have holiday homes here or they travel to southern Norway to experience our coasts. It’s also a natural destination for boat tourists from all over the country. It’s been wonderful to have my gallery here and to create a space for visitors where art can be experienced and enjoyed.” Infor-
mation on the gallery’s plans for summer 2024 can all be found on the website.
An international customer base Hertzberg’s iconic paintings have proven popular, both on her website and her summer gallery. “I have an exclusive customer group, but I’m working to expand my sphere of influence, she states. “My pictures have been exhibited and sold in a number of countries, including the USA, Spain, Switzerland, and Denmark. I am currently looking for collaborations with new galleries around the world.”
Art can save the world
Though she thinks an artistic life can at times depend on being alone and withdrawn, Hertzberg does not see this as being lonely. As she sees it, the experi-
ence of thinking about art and creating it means completely immersing yourself in your own universe. “I am with nature and my family. I am not part of an artistic community, but I feel fulfilled,” she says. Hertzberg also feels that art brings good things to the whole world. “Art is emotion,” Hertzberg exclaims. “I really believe art is the last form of hope as it stands today. My aim is to put together a world exhibition in collaboration with other artists, where life-giving art and beauty get a place. I want to create good feelings in this world, helping people to remember who we are. We are life!”
galleritove.no
Facebook: Tove Hertzberg – Kunst Instagram: tovehertzberg Mail: tove@galleritove.no
By Celina Tran | Photos: Oslo Konserveringsatelier
Though not obvious at first glance, the Norwegian capital bursts with creativity and colours. Young and old artists and creatives flock to the city to find inspiration and offer up their talents to the Nordic metropolis. From basement exhibitions to the grand national galleries, it’s clear that Oslo is a city for the arts, further establishing that Oslo Konserveringsatelier and its mission have never been more important.
Owned and run by painting conservators
Ingjerd Kleiva and Fredrik Jong, Oslo Konserveringsatelier offers everything
from conservation and restorations to historic paint analysis and more.
“We offer a range of services related to artworks, from the traditional treatment categories to pure advising. Overall, our goal as a studio is to encourage and help with the long-term conservation of art,” says Kleiva.
Oslo Konserveringsatelier was born from the wish to provide anyone with accessible conservation services of museal standard and in doing so preserve cultural heritage.
“Traditionally, most art conservation happens in hidden spaces, such as in basements of museums. We wanted to change this and offer up a space where people could not only get the services, but also see how we work,” adds Jong.
The COVID-19 pandemic stopped society as most people knew it, but Kleiva and Jong used the opportunity to slow down and figure out what they wanted for the future. Back when they started in 2014, their work was not out in the open and accessible to the public eye.
“We figured out that once we sorted the security aspect of opening the studio up, it would be a wonderful way to show the world the craft that is conservation and what it is we actually do,” says Jong.
As Jong mentioned, art conservation tends to be out of people’s sight and minds, hence why the average person might not even consider how the old painting in the sitting room might also need a touch-up after years on the wall.
“All art needs treatment at one point or another,” says Kleiva. “This can be due to accidents or vandalism, or it can simply come down to the inherent decay of materials. Think of how your living room needs a second coat of paint after 10 years, or how dirty walls can get from the fireplace smoke and pollution. It’s essentially the same thing.”
She explains that in their strive to conserve art, it does not matter if its value is economic or emotional - they devote their full attention to each and every piece.
“All future generations should be given the chance to experience the art we see today,” she says. “That’s why we think it’s important to be visible and accessible, and while we do offer our services to large public buildings, collectors, and businesses, our customers also include
regular people who have inherited their grandmother’s pieces.”
Jong adds that their knowledge and long experience within the field means that Oslo Konserveringsatelier can offer material analyses and contribute to authenticating art, in addition to traditional conservation services.
“The market value of a piece should not be the decisive factor for whether or not it should be preserved for the future. Conservation services should be available to everyone,” he says.
The studio has worked with clients and art pieces from all over, from the smallest private collection pieces to the monumental works in public spaces. As some artworks, such as church interiors and murals, are impossible to move or too
fragile to transport to the studio, the work can take place on or off-site.
In 2021, Oslo Konserveringsatelier moved to Lilleborg and Akerselva. The premises, the beautiful surroundings, and the access to other creatives interested in preserving culture and art were all compelling reasons to do so. However, the move was first and foremost a step towards unveiling a hidden craft to the public.
“In the future, we hope to be able to take on more conservators on different projects, and we’d love to hire more people with time. Maybe we’ll also have time for our own creative projects one day,” says Jong.
www.oslokons.no
Instagram: Oslo_Konserveringsatelier
Facebook: Oslo Konserveringsatelier
Art is very subjective. It means different things to different people. This can cause challenges for an artist trying to get their art out to the public. Galleries are thoroughly curated. Not just when creating an exhibition, but when choosing who to exhibit. So what to do when your art style does not match the gallery’s? Open your own gallery.
By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Siri BjotveitSiri Bjotveit is an artist with a difference. Ask 100 artists where they get their inspiration, and you will get 100 answers. But what makes Bjotveit stand out, is that she gets her inspiration from meditation. “The motifs in the paintings are based on the messages I receive during meditations,” Bjotveit explains. “The messages I receive are concrete text. I have to go a few rounds with myself to get the text turned into a painting on the canvas. This is educational, sometimes frustrating, but always rewarding.”
This is why the creation of each painting is a lengthy process, resulting in one to two paintings a year. Each message, or theme, is only painted once, so every piece of art is unique. “They must be read with the “heart”,” says Bjotveit. Feedback she has receives confirms that, with one buyer saying that the paintings talk to her.
There is no themed series of paintings, which is something galleries often prefer. The exception is mixed exhibitions, like the ones Bjotveit participated in at Bærums Verk in 2019 and 2020.
Bjotveit’s art is meant to be shared. When she could not find a gallery that matched her philosophy, she decided to convert her garage into her own gallery. Since it is run by Bjotveit herself, visits must be booked in advance.
It is not a gallery one stumbles upon serendipitously, but sometimes Bjotveit’s paintings reach the right person unexpected ways.
for a long time, so I asked him if there was something special about that painting,” says Bjotveit. “He had left his home country, alone, as a teenager, crossed the ocean, travelled through Europe and ended up in Norway. He said - that painting tells my whole story.”
www.galleri-siri.com
When Bjotveit’s car broke down, a young man was sent to help her. He was looking around the garage and one of the paintings made him stop. “He was quiet Friendship. Demanding, trusting and rewarding.
Born from a chance encounter, Galleri Amai brings the warmth and colour of Sri Lankan art to the cold North.
By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Simen Rotabakk of Galleri AmaiGalleri Amai began with a backpacking trip. In 2022 Simen Rotabakk was travelling in Sri Lanka and visited the town of Hikkaduwa. There, he met Theekshana who ran a local art gallery with his brother Dileepa, the gallery’s resident artist. Buying paintings to send home to his family, Rotabakk joked about setting up a collaboration to sell art in Norway. Theekshana was immediately interested. From this chance encounter, Galleri Amai was born.
The word ‘amai’ means turtle in Tamil, one of the main languages of Sri Lanka. The animal symbolises the values upon which Rotabakk founded the gallery – the appreciation of nature and an interest in longevity. Two years after opening, the gallery is thriving. “We’ve sold art to dozens of homes in Norway, and the feedback is very positive,” says Rotabakk. “Our customers appreciate the quality of the art and the affordable prices.”
Abstract paintings featuring strong colours and fascinating shapes are the most popular. “This is not surprising consider-
ing the need to add colour on Norway’s cold, grey winter days,” Rotabakk thinks. “Equally, paintings that contrast with the Nordic landscape and give a warm feeling of the exotic are also in demand.”
Galleri Amai also specialises in bespoke paintings. “Images of special people, animals, or moments are often chosen,” says Rotabakk. “It’s wonderful to create something that reflects a customer’s own experiences and feelings.”
And, Rotabakk has more plans for the gallery. “We’ve only just begun our journey. We want to create an even larger market. Our main customer base is in Scandinavia, but we also deliver to the rest of Europe. Although we have no plans to open a physical store, we are working on showing the paintings in various public places such as cafes and restaurants, public buildings and pop-up exhibitions.”
Galleri Amai also hopes to become a leader in digital art sales and to host the works of other artists. “At the moment, we only
offer the paintings of a single artist, but we hope to open for more, even this year. We want to be the gallery where everyone can find original, high-quality art at affordable prices,” says Rotabakk.
He is also proud to support the creative community in Sri Lanka and donate to animal welfare. For every purchase made, Gallery Amai donates 100 NOK to a local dog care clinic.
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–growing the second-hand market, a circular ecosystem, and diversity in fashion
With a robust creative sector, a strong focus on innovation, and proximity between policymakers and industry leaders, Sweden is in a unique position to lead the fashion transformation.
By Malin NormanSpearheading this fashion transformation is the Swedish Fashion Council (SFC). By promoting, innovating, and educating the industry, the organisation is accelerating the transformation and actively shaping the future of fashion. In August, SFC saw proof of the ground-breaking approach when its CEO Jennie Rosén was awarded Innovation of the Year at NK Galan in Stockholm.
“At SFC our aim is to promote, educate and innovate the Swedish fashion industry to become globally leading. It’s an honour to get recognition through this award,” says Rosén. “The work has been a challenge both professionally and personally, but I truly believe we have been able to see the bigger picture, showing a new era of Swedish fashion that has impacted the industry both nationally and globally.”
Diversity in the fashion industry
In November, the Swedish Fashion Council presented the second edition of the Fashion Transformation Report at [Fashion X] Stockholm. Topics include the economy of fashion, a circular fashion industry, the technological acceleration of fashion, and political initiatives.
The Swedish Fashion Council and the British Fashion Council are the first players to launch reports showcasing quantitative data on diversity. This latest edition of the Fashion Transformation Report is the first quantitative report measuring diversity in the fashion indus-
try, highlighting an industry struggling with unequal access to opportunities, lack of leadership representation and anxiety around discussing issues related to diversity and inclusion.
This year’s edition also shows how the acceleration of the second-hand market is still increasing. Together with Svensk Handel, SFC has developed a KPI to measure the growth of the second-hand market. According to Svensk Handel’s own report, Pre Loved, the total second-hand market in January had a revenue of SEK 1.1 billion, of which SEK 371 million was within the fashion sector.
Achieving a circular ecosystem “Sweden is at the forefront of design, sustainability, and innovation in fashion and textiles,” says Rosén. “Collaboration is more important than ever, not only within the industry but also across industries.”
HODAKOVA is one example of a brand demonstrating the value of collaboration in achieving a circular ecosystem. It is part of the SFC [INCUBATOR] and a 2024 LVMH semi-finalist. The brand was launched in 2020 and aims to convert old materials into luxurious goods. Its founder, Ellen Hodakova Larsson, is an alumna of the Swedish School of Textiles, one of the world’s top universities for fashion and textile design.
HODAKOVA’s collections are locally produced at XV Production, a micro-factory in Borås. This is a growing trend, according to Rosén: “We see a lot of micro-factories popping up, especially in the west coast of Sweden, making it easier for Swedish brands to produce locally.”
This spring, Rosén is looking forward to the next edition of Challenge the Fabric, in Milan, from 14-15 May. CTF is hosted by Ekman & Co, a global sales and marketing organisation, strategically aligning buyers and sellers of forest products around the world. “Challenge the Fabric aims to scale impact through collaboration. The pioneering cross-industry initiative is a unique platform that enables
the entire supply chain of man-made cellulosic fibres (MMCF) to meet, collaborate and create change.”
The event invites industry leaders and stakeholders from the fashion, textile, and forest industries to help shape the industry of tomorrow. This edition will also host the CTF Award, a talent competition challenging emerging designers to create looks made from MMCF fabrics as a way to promote and encourage a switch to biobased and recycled materials. The winner will be announced in Milan and receive a cash prize of $10,000.
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Since its foundation, EYTYS has been breaking boundaries with its bold unisex designs and empowering attitude. This spring, the brand presents an enchanting collection of vacation-ready footwear, clothing, and accessories inspired by Italy’s erratic and stunning Amalfi coast.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: Paolo ZerbiniFounded in 2013, independent fashion brand EYTYS started out with a desire to break boundaries in footwear design, with a unisex philosophy. Today, the Stockholm-based brand embraces the ethos of refining and elevating classics to offer uncompromising design and quality garments.
Fusing bold proportions with traditional craftsmanship, EYTYS offers two yearly
collections of footwear, ready-to-wear and accessories. With a presence that quickly went from local to global, the brand confirms its success by an infusion of that intangible something that makes the wearer feel attractive, confident and empowered.
This is also reflected in this year’s summer/spring collection which, in the brand’s own words: “Absorbs the con-
trasts of the Campania region through preppy striped t-shirts bleached from hours on deck, second skin rope printed tops, and a distressed leather biker, carefully adorned with a signature metal, knotted puller reminiscent of a neverending boat trip.”
From bold sneakers to global fashion
The journey of EYTYS began in 2012 when creative director Max Schiller envisioned “Mother” a plimsoll sneaker with a distinctive 38 mm thick sole. The innovation, which was at the time considered a “chunky sneaker,” swiftly gained popularity, gracing the shelves of esteemed retailers such as Colette, Dover Street Market, and 10 Corso Como.
In 2016, the brand opened its central Stockholm brand store and, by 2017, it expanded its offerings beyond footwear to encompass baggy jeans, eventually debuting a full ready-to-wear collection during Paris Fashion Week.
The brand’s second brand store in SoHo, London, opened in 2018, and today EYTYS is stocked at some of the world’s most renowned fashion stores, including Browns in London and Paris-based Galeries Lafayette, La Samaritaine, and more. Moreover, the brand is continuously expanding with new accounts all over the world.
Put on your vacation
More than a clothing brand, EYTYS was born out of a passion for art and photography and regularly collaborates with inspiring artists, stylists, musicians, models, photographers, and art directors.
That spark of creativity is also clearly reflected in the brand’s campaign for this year’s summer/spring collection. Set amidst the backdrop of the historically weathered buildings of the tranquil Mediterranean coastline, the campaign celebrates the Italian philosophy of Dolce Far Niente, the sweetness of
doing nothing. The presentation, which was captured by the Italian photographer Paolo Zerbini, exudes sunny coolness and raw holiday vibes.
In the brand’s own words: “The collection pays homage to the allure of transparency, capturing the essence of peek-a-boo seduction. A tantalizing game of hide and seek, the garments in the collection embrace translucent fabrics, rips and tears, revealing glimpses of sunburned skin while leaving behind a trail of curiosity.”
Indeed, the collection sees an alluring mixture of torn denim, breezy resort shirts and shrunken t-shirts with golden Italian-style ‘Extra Virgin’ embroidery, as well as “Siren”, EYTYS’ first leather bag, with rough embossed leather and biker-infused buckles.
In line with the guiding philosophy, the brand’s classic Breeze shirts have also been updated in laser-cut cotton and linen. Indeed, whether you are looking to spend your holiday enjoying the good life of urban leisure, relaxing all day on the beach, or celebrating life with endless club nights, EYTYS will take you there, if not in real life, at least in in mind.
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With over 100 years of experience, Engelbert has firmly established itself as a leader in the world of fine jewellery. Building on this reputation, the brand now celebrates the 10th anniversary of its iconic Legacy Knot collection by launching another four pieces. As always, these all showcase the effortless elegance, intelligent craftsmanship and timeless design that Engelbert has become synonymous with.
By Emma Rodin | Photos: EngelbertWith longevity such as that of Engelbert, it’s difficult to pinpoint only one event that has shaped the brand into the diamond it is today. But one such milestone would be when Oscar Engelbert took the reins of the business around ten years ago. As the fourth generation of his family to run the business, Oscar had a clear vision of how to bring Engelbert onwards and upwards, and, in 2013, Engelbert opened their flagship store in Stockholm. Other brand milestones include successful launches at London’s Harrods and at the reputable Bergdorf Goodman in New York.
Engelbert is solely focused on fine jewellery, which essentially translates to only
using 18k gold and natural diamonds of the highest standard. The latter means sourcing diamonds from professional traders in line with the Kimberly Process, the global certification system that exists to protect and regulate the diamond trade. ‘’Natural diamonds are rare and need to be handled with care and respect before they can be turned into wearable jewellery to be loved for a lifetime,” says CEO Johanna Pietsch.
Apart from striking collections of fine jewellery, Engelbert also offers an engagement and wedding ring service. All wedding and engagement rings are made in the brand’s Stockholm workshop and are in line with Engelbert’s outstanding standards.
One of Engelbert’s absolute bestsellers is The Legacy Knot collection, which is made up of rings, bangles and necklaces, all recognised for their distinctive twisted silhouette which represents love and continuity. In celebration of the collection’s tenth birthday, two exclusive necklaces and bracelets under the name The Legacy Knot Big have just been launched to enrich the collection. These statement pieces are presented in two different versions: in high-polished 18k gold, and
an exclusive diamond-set version in 18k white gold. The bracelet achieves a carat weight of 18.53 carats. The necklace features over 1800 brilliant-cut diamonds, achieving a carat weight of 33.78 carats with rare white diamonds graded G/VS.
“The Legacy Knot is a trademark for Engelbert. Not just thanks to its beautiful shape, but also because of its symbolic value, like connecting with those around you. That’s also why we call it The Legacy Knot, as it indicates a sense of belonging
and encourages bonds across generations. Over the years, The Legacy Knot has also become a hugely popular gift to celebrate love. And now that the collection has reached its 10-year milestone, it feels nice to credit its original shape through the addition of The Legacy Knot Big,” says Pietsch.
The shape of Engelbert
Appointed in 1985, designer Thomas Carlsson has over 30 years of experience creating magic for Engelbert and is known for his unique and organic designs. He works with a design team to bring ideas from the initial idea to the finished product, which can be a slow and challenging process. “Fine jewellery simply can’t be rushed,” stresses Pietsch. “The Engelbert DNA is for our pieces to be recognisable through organic shapes and a somewhat bold minimalism.”
The results are pieces that are loved worldwide and have been worn by celebrities and big names like Adele, Kris Jenner, Bella Hadid and the Swedish royal family. In essence, the creations are tasteful and easy to wear, generally adored for their seamless simplicity.
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Swedish shirtmaker Stenströms keeps momentum in fashion. To mark its 125th anniversary, the company re-launches the heritage shirt 1899 and announces a new collection in collaboration with creative director and model Mathias le Fèvre.
By Malin Norman | Photos: StenströmsIn the late 1890s, Swedish tailor and entrepreneur August Stenström had grown a reputation for making exceptional shirts. Among his customers in Helsingborg were sea captains who sailed through the harbour, taking their Stenströms shirts along on their onward travels – much like back-in-the-day influencers. 1899 marks the year when August, confident in his success and the potential for industrial production, turned his tailor shop into a modern shirt factory. In 1941, Stenströms added women’s blouses to its range.
Today, Stenströms’ collections for men and women are sold worldwide. Moreover, as a Royal Warrant of Appointment since 1973, the company also has the
honour of delivering shirts to both the Swedish King and Queen. Meanwhile, the head office is still based where it all started, in Helsingborg, and for the past 30 years parts of the production have taken place in Stenströms’ own factory in Estonia. Quality, comfort and fit have been the foundation since the beginning, and Stenströms has never taken shortcuts when choosing materials or wavered on premium sewing techniques, meaning the best materials are found in every product.
The classic Stenströms shirt
Stenströms’ design approach is timeless but whilst the classic style remains relevant, the brand also keeps in touch with current trends. “It’s quite amazing for a brand to stay relevant for 125 years,” says Marie Ramberg, marketing director. “Our philosophy of sustainable craftsmanship is the core of our business, meaning we aim to meet the future with products that are fashionably relevant, but at the same
time provide elegance and quality, so that people can use them over and over again”.
For the next step in the brand’s story, Stenströms is looking at the past and into the future. The new exclusive, limited edition shirt collection 1899 is a celebration of the founder and features exclusive materials, classic design and craftsmanship. “The heritage shirt honours August Stenströms’ timeless craft and passion for shirt making, bringing our customers a superior shirt with subtle Swedish confidence,” says Ramberg. “The 1899 heritage shirt has a slightly tweaked, more elegant fit and refined details.”
The 2024 Spring/Summer collection sees, for instance, the much-loved linen trend, with outfits that are perfect for both
the office and the summer holiday. The collection is a dynamic fusion of earthy tones, bold stripes, colourful hues and trendy white, and the various styles have elegant touches such as ruffles, lace and Kent collars. “Our designs need to stand the test of time, with classic aesthetic and exceptional quality,” means Ramberg. “It’s relaxed elegance for a range of occasions such as for work, a garden party, a holiday in Mallorca, or a wedding.”
Stenströms x Mathias le Fèvre
Marking the 125th anniversary, Stenströms is also excited to announce a collaboration with London-based, Danish creative director and model Mathias le Fèvre. A small Autumn/Winter capsule collection, available in October, will feature around 20 pieces, fusing the brand’s
own design ethos and the independent vision of le Fèvre.
The collection is a condensed and wellexecuted capsule with a twist on traditional Stenströms designs. It presents some exciting new styles, such as silk shirts, a suede jacket as well as some fine Faire Isle knits. “We have worked with le Fèvre before and love how he interprets Stenströms,” concludes Ramberg. “He captures Stenströms through a modern lens.”
As part of the jubilee, we can also expect to see a new golden collection of women’s wear released in October.
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We are wool experts with experience that stretches all the way back to 1879, when Klippan Yllefabrik started. Today, the fifth generation runs the company from the same premises. We love wool for many reasons. It is a climate smart natural material. Wool is environmentally friendly, sustainable and biodegradable.
www.klippanyllefabrik.com
Award-winning designer Susan Szatmáry creates high-end accessories combining function, simplicity and elegance. Having launched only five years ago, her leather bags are already a hit amongst royalties and fashionistas.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Susan SzatmárySusan Szatmáry is an eponymous modern luxury brand founded in Sweden in 2018. Influenced by her diverse cultural backgrounds, Szatmáry creates highend accessories with a unique identity.
The idea of pursuing a design career first arose in the ceramics studio of Szatmáry’s mother, where she spent her spare time creating bags from vintage leather jackets. A creative space where her trademark of combining personality with timeless design was born. At the age of 24, Szatmáry enrolled in a design school in Rome, and when graduating got the chance to work for Alexander McQueen in London. An opportunity that later led to her being scouted by Celine, Paco Rabanne, and Elie Saab in Paris. A few years later, she designed a collection for & Other Stories, and following this, the project to start her own brand was born.
In 2018, the premium label Susan Szatmáry was launched. Its bags are handcrafted in Italy from naturally dyed calf leather, with gold-dipped and brushed
brass hardware. With a minimal logo and clean lines inspired by the Art Deco movement, the designs stand the test of time. “My vision is to create high-end accessories with a unique identity,” says the designer. “I wanted to offer a line of timeless accessories that is long-lasting, with a feminine touch and attention to detail.”
A strong start with a number of prestigious awards made it clear that the designer had made the right choice. In 2019, Szatmáry was elected “Future Talent” by Nordiska Kompaniet in Stockholm. The following year she was named “Accessories Designer of the Year” by ELLE Sweden and won “Guldknappen Accessoar” (Gold Button Accessory) with Damernas Värld.
Combining a Scandinavian touch with Italian craftsmanship, Szatmáry’s designs look fabulous both day and night. With the vision of designing for a classic and chic woman, her designs have been worn by many prestigious names. The Swedish Crown Princess Victoria and Princess Sofia, as well as fashion expert
Emilia De Poret and Vouge Scandinavia’s editor-in-chief Martina Bonnier, are among those seen with her bags.
Next, team Susan Szatmáry are looking forward to a midsummer-themed pop-up store during Paris Fashion Week in June.
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Swedish clothing label A Day’s March offers high-quality wardrobe essentials, consciously produced in timeless designs. This spring, the brand is making its debut in the US market with the opening of its new flagship store at 32 Spring Street in New York.
By Malin Norman | Photos: A Day’s MarchA Day’s March is a Swedish clothing label founded in 2014 by Marcus Gårdö, Pelle Lundquist, and Stefan Pagréus. Lundquist and Pagréus have a background in advertising and the visual arts, while Gårdö brought the entrepreneurial side to the mix. The trio quit their daytime jobs to pursue the idea that premium, high-quality garments can be both affordable and more sustainable.
The name, A Day’s March, is an old military term. “It’s how far an army can move in one single day,” explains Lundquist, creative director for the brand. “It re-
flects our ambition to make clothes that help you get through the triumphs and troubles of everyday life.”
The collections draw inspiration from a mix of American sportswear and classic Italian fashion, filtered through a Scandinavian lens. “We aim to perfect the garments that get you through the day with style and dignity, hence the name –A Day’s March,” reiterates Lundquist. “Long-lasting quality and design are our tools to create clothes that you will love for years; we make wardrobe essentials that endure time.”
Most products in the collection are made in Portugal using local fabrics and materials. “I think we’ve been honest as a brand since the outset; our approach
to both products and communication is straightforward – what you see is what you get. Many of our customers really appreciate that and become loyal to us,” continues the creative director. Instead of following every trend, the team wants to design clothes that last and that customers will love to wear for years. “Making sure the products stand the test of time is the most sustainable action we can take as a brand.”
Since its start ten years ago, A Day’s March has embarked on a journey marked by strong growth and evolution. Key milestones include the opening of the first London store in 2018 and the introduction of womenswear in 2020. “Our roots are in menswear, emphasising quality and attention to detail,” says Lundquist. “The expansion into womenswear has enriched and made us more inspirational as a brand, whilst our dedication to product and craftsmanship remains.” Over the years, the brand has also collaborated with renowned artists such as Owe Gustafson, Jan Håfström, and Lisa Larsson on playful limited-edition collections to nurture creativity.
Last year, A Day’s March opened new stores in Stockholm and Oslo, along with a bespoke townhouse in London, showcasing the core collections across three floors. Each store bears the hallmark of
the brand’s design, created in-house by Lundquist and interior architect Daniel Braconier. The brand plans to continue the expansion into new markets and this spring, A Day’s March is debuting in the US with a flagship store opening on 32 Spring Street in New York.
“Despite the shift towards online shopping, we’ve always had a strong belief in having our own stores to complement our digital presence,” concludes Lundquist. “For us, it is imperative that customers can see and also feel the quality of our creations. The stores also serve as hubs for genuine interactions, where service
reigns supreme and we can curate our brand. We can’t wait to open in New York since it’s been a dream for a long time.”
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Edblad is Sweden’s leading jewellery brand, with signature pieces that evoke confidence and joy for its many loyal followers. This year, the brand continues its expansion on the global fashion scene with new markets, new designs and store openings.
By Malin Norman | Photos: EdbladFounded in Sweden in 2006, Edblad captures the Swedish heritage of effortless minimalism and timeless design, through fashionable jewellery in premium stainless steel for women and men.
“Sustainability and Swedish simplicity have been the core of our brand since the beginning,” says Eva Boding, CEO. “All our jewellery is created by the design team in Stockholm under the direction of head designer Karin Fritz, who brings experience from the global fashion scene. We follow closely what’s happening in fashion but also consumer trends on social media, to create new iconic jewellery
that lasts over time. Our jewellery is often the final touch to a perfect outfit or as the perfect gift.”
Eva Boding, Edblad’s CEO.
Edblad has had a fantastic journey, from the first small boutique outside Stockholm in 2006 to today’s position as the leading jewellery brand in Sweden. Edblad’s presence is also strong in the Nordic countries, and the brand is growing in markets such as Germany, the Netherlands and the UK. Boding explains: “Our vision is clear, we want Edblad to become the Swedish jewellery icon on the global fashion scene.” With more than 250,000 loyal followers, this seems to be more than achievable.
Swedish design flirts with Hollywood
Edblad’s major strength is its long-lasting product quality. The main product material is premium stainless steel, which is a sustainable material that can be reused endlessly. “Our jewellery remains beautiful even if you wear the product for a long time, no matter how
often you wear it,” says Boding. One of Edblad’s early collections, named Peak, is still among the best-sellers, endlessly popular amongst women.
Spring is an important time for Edblad, with occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduations and summer parties. For the spring collection, Edblad has been inspired by a sun-drenched, 70’s Hollywood glamour. The new collection also captures some of the season’s biggest trends in statement earrings, bold bracelets, chains and pops of colour reminiscent of candy.
A number of exciting brand collaborations are also in the pipeline this spring and more physical boutiques will open later this year, including one in central Gothenburg. “It’s important to be able to physically connect with our customers and give them the best brand experience,” says Boding. “We have a big community in Gothenburg and we hope they will love our new boutique.” Edblad will also open a new shop at the premium department store NK this spring.
A helping hand from Edblad
At the core of the brand are aspirations to be inclusive, inspirational and accessible, and those extend beyond the product itself. The charity program
Helping Hand is Edblad’s way of giving back, by offering jewellery that creates memories but also makes a difference. Each year, the design team creates special jewellery collections where a portion of the sales goes directly to different charity organizations.
For the fourth year, Edblad supports Kvinna till Kvinna (Woman to Woman), an organisation promoting gender equality. The organisation works to strengthen women’s influence and power, put an end to violence against women and make vis-
ible women’s struggle for peace and human rights. Moreover, Edblad’s colourful Rainbow range is specially designed to support Regnbågsfonden (the Rainbow Foundation) and its commendable work.
“We believe that Edblad can be a fantastic platform, not just to buy and wear our beautiful Jewellery, but also to emphasise important issues like equality in our modern world,” says Boding.
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Jeanerica is a European denim house focusing on elevated everyday denim. Later this year, the brand opens its first physical store in Stockholm.
By Malin Norman | Photos: JeanericaFounded in 2018, Jeanerica offers a range of contemporary denim garments, sustainably developed from high-quality materials for the best fit and comfort, and for longevity. Whilst jeans are known as an American workwear product, Jeanerica’s design is placed in a more modern European context. The style is minimalist and durable, and with more elegant aesthetics. A lot of work has been put into details and finding exactly the right fabrics and washes.
The two founders Lena Patriksson Keller and Jonas Clason go way back, some might remember them as co-founders of Whyred. With the new brand, they want to specialise further and deep dive into their love for sustainable denim. “At Jeanerica, we’re passionate about creating products that resonate on a deeper level, transcending seasonal trends,” says Patriksson Keller. “Our collections are crafted to endure, offering timeless pieces that you’ll cherish beyond season. Our motto is to buy less, but also to invest in garments that bring longevity and meaning.”
An example of Jeanerica’s dedication to sustainability is the initiative Imparfait, a curated selection of pre-loved garments and a resell platform for used Jeanerica jeans. It includes vintage finds, samples or up-cycled pieces that were never brought into production, and clothes used for styling or photoshoots. Each garment carries a unique narrative, celebrating imperfection and enduring style.
Praised collaborations and store opening
Imagined as a platform for creative partnerships, artisanal construction techniques, and conceptual collaborations, Jeanerica Atelier visualises what can be done with the versatile denim material. The latest Atelier drop is a collaboration with furniture designer Daniel Östman, who has created a number of unique denim stools. “The collection blurs the lines between fashion and interior design,” says Clason. “It marries specialised industrial innovation, using our technically laser-finished fabrics and handcrafted splash fabrics, with smallscale local furniture production.”
Another close collaboration is with Silver Ostrich, an Italian luxury leather brand specialising in handcrafted accessories such as belts. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Silver Ostrich,” says Clason. “The belts are crafted with the finest materials and attention to detail, exuding elegance and quality in every stitch.”
Later this year, the brand will open its first physical store on Nybrogatan in Stockholm, a vibrant area with theatre, great food, and more. Patriksson Keller reveals: “We have a good balance with our digital universe and wholesale. But we also know that jeans are highly personal and people want to be able to try which model suits them best.”
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EOE Eyewear is a Swedish eyewear brand that has decided to do things differently. Its stylish glasses and sunglasses are crafted hand in hand with nature, employing a pioneering approach to recycled materials designed to last.
By Nina Bressler | Photos: EOE EyewearEOE Eyewear was founded in the north of Sweden by Emilia and Erik Lindmark after they noticed a gap in the market for independent brands with exciting designs and a strong sustainability approach. Thanks to their own relationship with nature, incorporating a strong regard for their environment is essential to the couple’s approach to their products. ”We’ve both grown up surrounded by the majestic nature of the north and simultaneously been acutely aware of the impact climate change has on our seasons, and that created an urge to make a difference through our products,” Emilia Lindmark, CEO and co-founder, says. “Everything we make is created in tune with our surroundings, and EOE Eyewear is the result of our unique perception of what a business and eyewear can be.”
The frames of EOE Eyewear contain details collected in nature; moss, pine-needle, pieces of birch, stones, and reindeer horn (that regenerate and fall off naturally every year) ‒ pieces emblemat-
ic of the mountainous and vast landscape of the north. In addition to using eco-friendly acetate, the company has also created an entirely new and unique process for creating new material from recycled frames: Regrind. ”We started developing this material to close the loop and to pioneer this industry when we couldn’t find an adequate alternative for truly sustainable eyewear. This patented process means that we bring in old, disposed eyewear, sort out and dismantle them, then regrind™ the old material to make new recycled acetate sheets in our facilities that then can be used to make new glasses. Rather than keeping the technique to ourselves, we’ve decided to
share it with everyone in our industry and we’ve seen some incredible responses so far. Prominent global fashion brands are already using it for their own products,” says Lindmark.
Going forward, the founder’s plan for their business is sustainable growth and a long-term perspective, with quality and good design remaining paramount throughout every decision. The philosophy has remained simple from the beginning and continues to be a permanent part of their journey: eyewear crafted with purpose, in tune with the infinite beauty of nature.
www.eoe-eyewear.com
Instagram: @eoeeyewear
Facebook: EOE Eyewear
Ewa i Walla was founded by — you guessed it — Ewa Iwalla, an artist and designer from the village of Valla in Sweden. The clothing brand merges natural materials with modern fashion and a style inspired by the traditional attire of Hälsingland, the home county of Valla. The result is unexpected: feminine countryside garments, embellished with beautiful details, like works of art.
By Nina Bressler | Photos: Ewa i WallaFounded in 2002, the design of Ewa i Walla, draws inspiration from old crafts and fabrics, garments found in flea markets, and vintage boutiques. The brand is all about slow fashion, and the clothes have to last over time — it’s not about what’s currently on trend, but rather about creating distinctive timeless clothing that will last. “ I care about fashion that will look as fashionable today as in ten years, where quality remains at the core. Seasonal trends are not as important: for instance, when everyone is doing dark colours for autumn, I choose to infuse my designs with colour. Many customers still have clothes from the very first collection and it’s a bit like building your dream wardrobe, where you add new pieces little by little,” says Ewa Iwalla.
Materials such as linen, silk, wool, and cotton are frequently used in her collections to create a soft flow in the garments. They are created with a certain sense of authenticity, intentionally crafted to feel already lived-in and made with pre-washed, natural materials. Everything from design and creation to distribution is headquartered in the company’s studio which is located close to its origin in Valla.
Ewa i Walla releases two collections per year. The spring one for 2024 has been labelled Glimpse of Summer. This is a selection of unique pieces that are made to celebrate the light and warmth that the summer brings, full of beautiful floral prints and playful embroideries. Simply, another collection made to last.
The designs are available in Ewa i Walla’s own boutique in Gamla Stan, Stockholm, as well as at retailers in Europe, the US, and the online shop.
www.ewaiwalla.se
Facebook: ewaiwalla
Instagram: @ewaiwallaartdesign
Defined by the brand’s commitment to style, simplicity, and quality, Filippa K’s elevated wardrobe staples embody effortless sophistication. With Anna Teurnell as its new creative lead, the brand has embarked on a journey of redefining modern luxury while staying true to its Scandinavian heritage and promoting mindful consumption.
By Signe HansenSince its foundation by the celebrated Swedish designer Filippa Knutsson in 1993, along with Patrik Kihlborg and Karin Hellners, Filippa K has embodied a design philosophy rooted in Scandinavian minimalism. For three decades, this philosophy has guided the brand in a celebration of the beauty of simplicity: reducing a garment to its essence to
focus on the silhouette, materials, and finishings.
Through the years, a defining feature of the brand has been its work to redefine fashion with its reliable capsule wardrobe approach. Seamlessly transitioning from work to leisure to evening, Filippa K’s collections have become loved by a
global customer base looking for an understated yet sophisticated approach to dressing well.
Today, drawing inspiration from Swedish culture and nature, the brand is building on to its core values with a mission to promote mindful consumption. The key is long-lasting and versatile pieces that customers can wear and love for years and that stay relevant as they pass them on to friends or across generations.
February this year, Filippa K unveiled Anna Teurnell as its new creative lead,
signalling a bold step towards shaping the brand’s future. With a distinguished background as the founder and creative director of Teurn Studios, Teurnell brings a wealth of creative expertise and a deep understanding of modern luxury. “I see amazing potential in Filippa K, both globally and locally. Working closely with the teams, my priority will be to define and develop the brand’s next generation of iconic products,” says Teurnell.
As a brand, Filippa K advocates for owning fewer, yet better, pieces – a mantra that resonates with many modern consumers seeking to cultivate a mindful lifestyle through timeless designs, quality, and versatility.
To further foster a sustainable approach
Filippa K works with five pillars: traceability & transparency, materials & innovation, circularity, environmental impact, and social responsibility. The company takes a holistic approach by involving employees across its organisation in reaching its goals, working towards caring for our planet and its people.
Some of the brand’s efforts include improving fiber traceability, increasing the use of certified and recycled materials, and measuring their environmental impact with the aim of reducing it each year. Moreover, Filippa K works consistently to ensure that the people within its supply
chain are treated well by fostering equal and long-term relationships with suppliers – the company’s average supplier partnership is seven years, with some as long as 20+ years.
This year’s spring/summer collection encapsulates the essence of Filippa K’s evolution, blending archival classics with modern interpretations. Archival striped fabrics, denim silhouettes and rollededge detailing are re-editioned for the modern wardrobe, juxtaposed by metallic and vinyl-like materials that underline the house’s evolution.
Drawing inspiration from the warm Scandinavian summer light, the collection features enzyme washes, overdyes and bleach treatments that create a
neutral palette, evoking a sense of time passed and Scandinavian heritage.
Meanwhile, the brand’s enduring capsule approach manifests in a foundation of familiar staples – trench coats, classic shirts, and relaxed trousers, for example. Each piece exudes understated sophistication, inviting consumers to embrace the beauty of simplicity in their everyday wardrobe.
There can be no doubt that Filippa K continues to redefine luxury fashion, inspiring consumers to embrace a lifestyle of effortless sophistication and mindful consumption.
www.filippa-k.com
Instagram: @filippa_k
Facebook: FilippaK
Filippa K was founded in 1993 by Filippa Knutsson, Karin Hellners and Patrik Kihlborg.
Today, Filippa K has brand stores in Sweden, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Finland.
The brand has around 18 stores in 7 countries.
The company is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.
Filippa K has an ecommerce presence in over 65 markets, and over 140 employees across Europe.
Guided by the principle of simple Scandinavian design, Happy Ears has created a reusable earplug for whatever your need.
Try our newest earplugs made of ocean plastics. An important product when you know more than 1Bil single use traditional earplugs are used and thrown away each year.
Better product, less waste. This is Happy Ears. Made in Sweden since 2010.
www.happyearsearplugs.com
Visit our shop here and try one of our Discovery Packs, which offer you a money back guarantee.
MarZio seamlessly combines timeless design with century-old Italian craftsmanship. This year, the shoe brand celebrates its 25th anniversary with a collection of its most iconic designs.
By Malin Norman | Photos: MarZioFounded in Stockholm in 1999, MarZio is a family business dedicated to handmade Italian shoes. The brand has an uncompromising commitment to artisanal craftsmanship. The artisans, trained in the traditions of Italian shoemaking, handcraft each shoe with meticulous attention to detail.
“My father’s vision was to introduce handcrafted Italian shoes to Sweden. Alongside his passion for the craftsmanship, and the unparalleled comfort and fit that it brings, he also aimed to infuse Swedish fashion with a vibrant palette of colours,” says Sara Jahed. It has proven to be an unbeatable combination and 25 years on, MarZio remains.
”We never compromise on quality,” Jahed says. “This dedication to artisanal excellence is what sets MarZio shoes apart, and is also why we have such a loyal and continuously growing clientele. Our cus-
tomers recognise and value the exceptional quality of our products. They also trust that each pair not only meets their high standards, but also carries with it a rich narrative.”
Over 100 steps by hand MarZio is a celebration of craftsmanship and design. All shoes are expertly handmade in long-term partnerships with small family-owned factories in Italy. The production is a sophisticated process that has developed over generations. Together with these carefully
selected factories, the family has been able to develop unique models made of the finest leathers.
“The shoes are handmade, with over 100 separate steps carried out,” says Jahed. “We believe that if you don’t intervene with your hands, the results will be without a soul. Thus, our products resonate with a profound sense of identity and purpose, infusing each step with soulful character.”
The range comprises both women’s and men’s shoes and includes, for example, loafers, slingbacks and pumps, sandals, sneakers and boots, and more. The models are timeless and of remarkable quality, in fact, many of the early designs are still relevant today. Quality has been the saviour for the brand and whilst many others have been forced to close, MarZio is still going strong. This year, MarZio celebrates its 25th anniversary and will launch a special collection this autumn highlighting some of its biggest icons.
marzio.se
Facebook: Marziostockholm
Instagram: @marziostockholm
Boasting a breathtaking landscape and rich cultural traditions, Setesdal in southern Norway offers spectacular experiences for both nature lovers and culture buffs. Indeed, the valley, which is recognised by UNESCO as representative of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage, is a jewel of the past as well as the present.
By Eva-Kristin U. PedersenThe valley of Setesdal stretches from the lowlands north of Kristiansand through the municipalities of Bygland and Valle to Bykle, the northernmost part of the valley. Travelling up the valley is a spectacular journey with much to offer visitors throughout the year.
Setesdal is also one of the places that has best preserved Norwegian traditions. Its relative remoteness has ensured that a range of cultural practices, from cooking traditions to silver smithery and local dialects - many of which are tricky to understand for outsiders - not only have survived but even flourished.
First and foremost, however, Setesdal’s culture is expressed through music. Traditional music and dance from Setesdal was included on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage in 2019, the first such recognition in Norway and something the local population is immensely proud of.
Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance through several events, especially during the summer. In fact, you are almost bound to bump into a show or two somewhere as one of the key ways of ensuring the transmission of folk music and dance, is through “Culture Patrols”.
Culture Patrols are groups of young musicians and dancers dressed in traditional folk costumes that spend their summers performing in various places such as restaurants, local squares and parks, throughout the valley.
Yet there are many other things to experience in Setesdal as well. Hiking is one of them and is very well organised. Marked trails cross the mountains and dotted along routes are several tourist cabins, including typical day trip cabins where hikers can take breaks to relax and socialise with other hikers. If you want to spend the night in the moun-
tains, the Norwegian Tourist Association also offers lodgings at very reasonable prices. Some of these cabins are staffed in the summer and offer meals, often local food prepared in a traditional manner.
Setesdal also attracts many mountain climbers and is a well-known destination for climbers from all over Europe, in particular thanks to Northern Europe’s longest via ferrata
“There are actually three via ferrata in Valle; the spectacular Straumsfjellet, which is the longest, but there is also a slightly easier one at Nomelandsfjellet,
as well as a path at Brokke which is also suitable for children. In addition, there are several regular climbing routes in the valley,” explains Torunn Charlotte Nyberg of the Valle municipality.
Bygland’s mysterious sword
Driving up through Setesdal, the first municipality you reach, is Bygland. Historians believe that Bygland may have been an important trading post in the Viking era and the area is covered in artefacts from that time. The most famous is the intriguing Langeid sword, which experts believe belonged to King Canute. Found in a grave in Langeid, in 2011, the sword is covered in mystical Christian signs yet lying in a heathen grave, providing testimony to the battle between the old Viking beliefs and the new
Christian faith that slowly paved its way through Norwegian hearts and minds from year 1000 and onwards.
Setesdal has been inhabited continuously since the age of the Vikings and for those interested in learning more about what life was like in Setesdal in pre-modern times, a visit to the Bygland Museum and in particular the Hagen Husmannsplass is highly recommended. A “husmannsplass” is the very modest dwelling of tenant farmers – and places where it does not take much imagination to understand that for many people survival was no easy feat.
While still in Bygland, you may want to catch a ride with Bjoren on the magnificent Byglandsfjord. Bjoren is a steam-
boat used for conventional transport since the 1840s. It was taken out of use in 1957 but has since been restored and is now a part of the Bygland Museum.
Valle’s Culture Patrols
Moving north from Bygland, you reach Valle, the centremost of the three Setesdal municipalities. Already as you enter Valle, you can tell how important music is; in the main roundabout, as you approach the centre of the municipality, you will be greeted by the world’s largest Jew’s harp. Weighing 330 kg, it is modelled after an original Jew’s harp made by the wellknown harp smith Bjørgulv Straume, yet is 50 times larger than the original.
If you visit Valle during the first weekend of August, you will not want to miss the Folk Music Festival at Rysstad. With concerts, competitions and exhibitions but also courses in dancing, traditional singing (“kveding”) and Norway’s national instrument, the “Hardingfele”, the festival at Rysstad is a definitive must for everyone interested in traditional music.
Rysstad is also home to an exciting project that showcases Setesdal’s ability to not only conserve old traditions but to keep them alive by actively engaging with them. The “Setesdal Stavkyrkje” is a very particular construction project; craftsmen are planning a brand new stave church, mixing old traditions with
modern know-how. The project has already attracted much attention both in Norway and abroad and the building process, planned to start in 2025, will be open to the public. Until then, visitors can enjoy a very detailed model at the nearby Setesdal museum, “Setesdalsmuseet”.
The museum, which is otherwise known for its collection of traditional folk costumes (“bunad”) as well as locally crafted silver jewellery, is hosting a stave church exhibition this summer.
While in Valle, you may also want to take what is likely to be the most beautiful detour you will ever take in your life, across the Suleskarvegen to Stavanger in Western Norway. As the highest road connection in South Western Norway, it leads through amazing scenery and the views are well worth the extra time.
On top of the world in Bykle
Travelling north from Valle, you reach the innermost of the three municipalities, Bykle. As you arrive, make sure to stop at the Iron Extraction Museum to learn about iron production from the age of the Vikings and onwards. You will also want to pay the magnificent Old Bykle Church a visit. The church dates all the way back to 1620, and the ceiling is completely
covered by traditional rose paintings, an adornment completed in 1826.
Most of all, however, it is time to really emerge in nature. If you enjoy fishing, there are several opportunities for sport fishing, both in the river Otra and if you go mountain hiking. Adventurous souls might want to test their physique by rafting down the same river – a true adrenalin kick.
While Bykle, and in particular the Hovden area, is a skiing paradise in the winter, attracting both downhill and cross-country skiers to its slopes, the mountains are no less attractive in the summer. In fact, the very same slopes make for fantastic hiking paths.
You can either follow the old Viking road and learn about local culture and history as you go along, or you can take the ski lift to Storenos and follow the marked trails from there to the nearby peaks.
Once you reach the top, make sure to stop to catch your breath and look around. The view, mountains as far as you can see, is simply breathtaking and a suitable way to end a journey through a valley that knows both to take care of traditions and to adapt to modern demands.
en.visitsorlandet.com/ about-visit-setesdal/
YouTube: www.visitnorway.com/placesto-go/southern-norway/setesdal
–Thrilling peaks, tranquil trails, and a vibrant summer of culture
Famous for its beautiful landscapes, Norway has long been the destination for travellers looking for adventure and fun, as well as those seeking serenity in their surroundings. Over the years, more and more people have begun to flock to the country’s many vibrant cities and beautiful nature scenes. If experiencing the Norwegian land is also on your bucket list and you are keen to get away from the crowds, the spacious and friendly small town of Surnadal may be the place to check out.
By Celina TranLocated in the northernmost part of Western Norway, Surnadal has the benefit of being a short distance from larger cities like Trondheim, Kristiansund, and Molde while still embodying the charm of a hidden countryside treasure.
“While we only have a population of almost 6000 people, Surnadal offers a great many things to do,” says Karin Helen Halle, the Societal Head of Municipal Affairs in Surnadal. “With short travel from mountains to fjords and a plethora of activities, it’s a wonderful place to visit all year round.”
Whether you’re a beginner hiker, a professional mountain climber, or just need to exchange the hustle and bustle of the cities for some peace and quiet, Surnadal has something for you.
Discovering nature’s beauty
Stretching along Surnadal and Rindal in the North, Rennebu, Orkland, and Dovrebanen in the East, Oppdal and Sunndal in the south, and fjords in the west, Trollheimen is known to avid hikers as a true gem among Norwegian mountain areas.
Over millions of years, the glaciers have decorated the landscape in Trollheimen
with u-shaped valleys in the east and v-shaped valleys in the west, as well as large mountains of all shapes. It is said to be the first area to be free of ice after the last ice age.
“Trollheimen is an amazing terrain for mountain climbers or those who are looking for a hiking challenge. In the winter, it also makes for the most thrilling alpine scenery,” says Halle.
However, you shouldn’t be intimidated by Trollheimen’s grandeur! The mountainous area has a long tradition of hiking, so even if you’re just looking for an easy walk, you can be assured that there are well-marked trails of all levels. There are also various options for overnight stays and dining.
“Surnadal makes a perfect recreational location for the whole family. You can hike, bike, go swimming in clean fjords, or try salmon fishing in Surna, one of Norway’s best salmon rivers, or just hang out with the locals,” says Halle.
She explains that, unlike the more famous Norwegian tourist spots, Surnad-
al has not had the same amount of international tourism, meaning you can enjoy the panorama views and sights without paying a ticket, standing in line or jamming up with the crowds.
“The vast surrounding untouched nature offers a completely unique outdoor experience and true escape, she adds. “Whether you want to stay in a hotel, or you’d prefer to camp or rent a cabin in the wild, there are plenty of options for accommodation.”
Summer visitors can also take part in other popular outdoor activities such as golfing, motocross, and frisbee golf. In the wintertime, the mountains are full of skiing trails and thrilling adventures on the slopes.
A summer full of culture
Beyond its natural wonders and magical sights, Surnadal’s quaint villages and rich cultural heritage have a lot to offer: You can take a stroll through the old village of Surnadalsøra, known for its artistic community and many exhibitions, or enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Svinvik arboretum. Visit the museum at Åsen and walk along the Kavlvegen timber trackway, a handmade copy of a local archaeological finding, dated in the 1160s.
“Surnadal boasts a rich cultural life, and this summer is no different. We’ve got
many things planned for the locals and visitors, including three cultural festivals,” says Halle.
Initiated in 1995, Vårsøghelga (May 23. –26) is a well-known, annual Norwegian culture festival in Surnadal, also the home of the author Hans Hyldbakk and composer and artistic director Henning Sommerro, the creators of the song Vårsøg known as Norway’s “second national anthem”. The festival features high-quality performances featuring
Henning Sommerro, Bugge Wesseltoft, TrondheimSolistene, Bjarne Brøndbo, the Young Suffering ensemble, local musicians, art exhibits and much more.
Another festival, Midstommar i Surnadal (June 20 – 30), offers 10 days of festivities, arranged by local youth and local businesses.
“And for those who are looking for something a little different, Stangviksfestivalen (July 24 – 28) is another great music and art festival where professional musicians let their hair down and create truly magical concert experiences.”
Hungry for more after arts and culture?
The area’s local cafés and restaurants offer a range of great cuisine, including local gourmet dishes at Svinvik Gard. This restaurant is located by the fjord in a century-old barn, famous for offering a season-based taste of local produce, hand-picked ingredients, and fish from local waters.
Ready for a genuine break away from the big crowd? Try Surnadal.
www.surnadal.kommune.no
Facebook: Surnadal Kommune
In the heart of Norway’s arctic circle lies a natural wonder called Svartisen. A prehistoric glacier, Svartisen is one of the country’s most iconic natural sights, unparalleled in both beauty, history, and grandeur.
By Celina Tran | Photos: Moments of NorthStretching through the Northern Norwegian municipalities of Meløy, Rødøy, and Rana, is a glacier unparalleled in both sight and history. Svartisen is not only one of the country’s largest glaciers, but arguably also one of its most iconic natural wonders.
While there’s no agreed-upon reason behind its name, Svartisen, or “the black ice” in English, likely comes from its unique, deep blue colour, which can look dark compared to the surrounding pale snow. In addition to the colour, its towering ice walls to crystalline blue crevasses create a magic that stretches throughout the glacier, enchanting one and all that bear witness to its sights.
“Svartisen currently stands at around 250 meters above sea level, making the view spectacular,” says skipper and CEO of Til Svartisen, Robert Allen.
While there is no doubt that the visual spectacle of Svartisen serves as an important tourist attraction for the area, for the local communities, the glacier is so much more. A living, breathing ecosystem, the glacier is the mother of nearly 300 other minor glaciers and drifts beneath it. For as long as we can imagine, communities and animals all around have been lucky to be able to rely on it for clean water, making it responsible for sustaining the tapestry of life in and surrounding itself.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, a geology fan, or just someone who wants to exchange the bustle of the city for the magical Norwegian nature, Svartisen promises adventure like no other.
Food and fun: So much more than just ice
While hiking across a glacier might not be everyone’s cup of tea, Svartisen and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of experiences. Are you looking to explore the local nature or wildlife? Experiencing the midnight sun or going on a sea eagle safari might be just your thing. Or perhaps you’d prefer kicking your feet back and calmly spending your days trying out new flavours? No worries, at Brestua restaurant you can enjoy the best of the area’s culinary offerings as well as an excellent view. If you’d like a mixture of calm and adventure, wait until you hear about Svartisgryta, an all-natural, arctic spa!
“Here on Svartisen we have several businesses that offer different adventures to and around the glacier, such as Nyt Svartisen, Til Svartisen, and Explore Svartisen,” says Allen. “We all work together to show the very best of Svartisen.”
In 2021, the shuttle boat company, Til Svartisen, was founded by Kim Børge Skjellstad and Allen, in order to lighten the load for Skjellstad, who had previously done the job by himself. Together, the two skippers could meet demand and offer more unique RIB trips, allowing guests to experience the midnight sun or go on sea eagle safaris.
“The same year we started, a pub-café was opened down at the Engen harbour,
and the year after it became an ISPSrecognised harbour, allowing more cruise ships to dock. In 2023, we therefore started Nyt Svartisen with chef and co-owner, Jesper Person,” says Allen. “We further established Explore Svartisen with Markus Løkken, Silje Mari Karlsen, and Åge Magnussen, who all offer guided tours.”
“Til Svartisen also bought a small ferry, doubling our capacity for passengers. Nowadays, we can take 161 passengers every half hour with our three boats,” he adds.
Allen explains that all the local Svartisen businesses are working to build a tourist destination with a range of possibilities, offering everyone a chance to experience the magic of Svartisen and its surrounding areas.
“We hope to establish ourselves as a must-visit destination along Helgelandskysten, and we’re constantly working towards creating more experiences. Our goal is to make Svartisen a sustainable full-year travel destination, with the possibility for everyone to get a chance at witnessing the glacier,” he says.
Svartisen is and continues to become an even more sought-after travel destination, and no wonder! With such sights and experiences, there are things to do for everyone, regardless of their appreciation for thrills or adventure. Why not lace your boots, pack your bag, and set out on your very own Norwegian Odyssey?
www.tilsvartisen.no
Instagram: @tilsvartisen, @nytsvartisen og, @exploresvartisen
Norway is often associated with beautiful nature, mountains, and fjords. The Stavanger region delivers on all three, with hiking routes leading to breathtaking views. But it has even more to offer, from surfing to street art and numerous MICHELIN-listed restaurants.
By Hanna Margrethe EngerIn 2016, RE-NAA in Stavanger became the first Norwegian restaurant outside Oslo to receive a MICHELIN star. Today, the restaurant has two stars while two other Stavanger restaurants have one star, and eight restaurants are listed in the MICHELIN guide.
Part of the reason why Stavanger, a relatively small city with 149,000 inhabitants, is filled with award-winning restaurants, is its climate. It is mild and humid, making it ideal for agriculture. The region also has a long coastline, meaning the fish you eat for lunch has most likely been caught hours earlier. Having top-quality produce so easily accessible is any chef’s dream.
As a result, Stavanger offers an array of cuisines from around the globe, innova-
tive takes on local favourites, and options to suit every budget. For those eager to sample as much of the food scene as possible, the food festival Gladmat is the solution. The four-day festival runs from 26-29 June 2024, with a large part of the city becoming a big festival area. The whole restaurant industry takes part and moves out onto the streets.
Art, culture, and shopping can be combined, and Stavanger does it beautifully. One example is Chili Chocolate. This artisan chocolate shop makes all its products in-store, allowing customers the opportunity to see how their favourite chocolates are made.
The building where Chili Chocolate now resides used to be a goldsmith, and one
floor up, jewellery is still being made. This is the workshop of Tone Tandrevold, where she makes her jewellery line Charms of Norway. Visitors are welcome.
Øvre Holmegate, also known as the colourful street, is a visual feast for the eyes. It was the passion project of artist Craig Flannagan, who planned the colour combination. An artwork in itself, it is also home to many independent shops and businesses.
While wandering through Stavanger, keep your eyes open for street art. The
app Google Art & Culture has worked with the street art festival NuArt, listing artworks and where to find them. Some are big murals that are hard to miss, but some are much smaller, only 15-20 cm.
Located just outside the city centre is Stavanger Art Museum, with approximately 3,500 artworks. These include tapestries by Frida Hansen (1855-1931), Norway’s largest collection of works by Lars Hertervig (1830-1902), and Kitty Kielland’s (1843-1914) landscape paintings of Jæren.
As Stavanger is the energy capital of Norway, the Norwegian Petroleum Museum is naturally one of the most popular museums in the city. It tells the story of oil in Norway, the good, the bad, and the ugly, but also has an exhibition that takes visitors back 200 million years. Deep Secrets explains how algae living in the sea through geological processes, became the energy we can use today.
Follow in the footsteps of Tom Cruise Preikestolen, The Pulpit Rock, is undoubtedly the most famous attraction in the Stavanger region. Even more so after featuring in Mission: Impossible 6
The views are spectacular and well worth the eight-kilometre round trip, taking four hours. It is classed as a moderately hard hike, and a guide is recommended for those with less hiking experience.
However, being popular comes with a price - it can get quite crowded. To avoid this, an early start is a good idea. Moreover, it is important to be well-prepared and research what to wear and what to bring.
Not everyone is comfortable with heights or can hike. A cruise on the fjord offers a comfortable alternative. It can also be combined with hiking.
Norway may not seem like the most obvious place for NASA to train its astronauts. Nonetheless, Magma Geopark, a place so unique that it has been recognised by UNESCO, has been used as a substitute for the moon when training astronauts in rock sampling. This is due to the fact that the rock here, anorthosite, is the same as on the moon.
Surf’s up
Surfing is usually associated with Hawaii or California, however, Jæren, a large area in the Stavanger region, is wellknown for its many beautiful, windy beaches. Perfect conditions for surfing.
Borestranden beach is one of Norway’s best beaches for surfing. It is an excellent place to learn how to surf, and there is no need to invest in expensive equipment. Bore Surf Senter provides everything from surfboards to wetsuits, in addition to lessons for beginners and experienced surfers.
Its proximity to Stavanger, only 30 minutes by car, means it is perfect for a day trip. There are also holiday cottages available for rent by the beach, allowing more time for those eager to really get their surf on.
www.edgeofnorway.com
Facebook: regionstavanger
Instagram: @regionstavanger
Tucked away in the peaceful landscape of Norway lies a hidden cultural gem. Though small in size, Hamar is full of fun. With a long history steeped in local tradition and culture, the city aspires to become the urban heart of the region, kicking off this summer’s programme with renowned acts including Lenny Kravitz, Jarle Bernhoft, and Kaizers Orchestra.
By Celina TranWhile most Norwegians, figure skating fans, and Winter Olympics enthusiasts might be familiar with Hamar, the hidden gem nestled along Mjøsa is fairly unfamiliar to the international community. Don’t let yourself be fooled by its size – Hamar is full of life! As the regional capital of the county Innlandet, it serves as a cultural meeting point for the 90,000 people who live in the Hamar region. But it is much more too. Whether you like to travel for fun and entertainment, rich medieval history, or just the opportunity to relax in peaceful natural surroundings, Hamar has it all.
“While it’s full of possibilities and fun, it’s also a small enough city for people
to have easy access to everything,” says Morten Midtlien, the Municipal Commissioner of Culture in Hamar.
From the ancient Viking settlements to the modern-day cultural hubs, Hamar’s journey through time is a testament to
the resilient, innovative spirit of the locals. The city emerged as a vital trading hub during the Viking Age, and in the medieval period, it became a religious and political centre in the region. Today, however, Hamar has emerged as a cultural destination.
“We continue to develop and invest in our city’s cultural events for both locals from Hamar and the surrounding region, but also for tourists from other countries and places,” says Midtlien.
Swing into summer with Lenny Kravitz, Bernhoft and more
Among other things, the municipality has invested in concerts to encourage cultural growth and fun among locals.
“The ‘Live in Hamar’ festival is an annual event held outside the Hamar Olympic Hall, known as Vikingskipet, offering both locals and travellers the chance to
have a boogie while taking in the sight that is Hamar’s most famous landmark.
“Last year, we were so lucky as to have the amazing Norwegian duo Karpe as
well as Stig Brenner and Emma Steinbakken grace our stage and perform to 15.000 people,” says Midtlien. “We’ve also previously hosted Sting, Elton John, and Aha for outdoor concerts on the main square in Hamar City Centre.”
And this summer’s acts will be no less iconic. With a vast list of accomplishments and awards under his belt, Grammy-winning rockstar and actor Lenny Kravitz will be performing in Hamar as one of his two only performances in Norway this year. Kravitz is releasing his 12th studio album, Blue Electric Light, this May, just in time for Live in Hamar on the 27th of June.
“Lenny Kravitz is a legend, and it’s absolutely amazing to be able to present him to an audience as a part of our city’s 175 jubilee,” says Midtlien.
Among other names to perform is the multitalented Norwegian musician Jarle Berhoft. Nominated for a Grammy in 2014, Bernhoft is a singer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist as well as a mentor on The Voice Norway, and is set to bring the energy through the roof.
“I’ve listened to Lenny Kravitz for a long time, and his influence has helped shape me into the musician I am today. I’m very excited to show off to the grand master,” Bernhoft says.
The heat of summer won’t stop there, with Kaizers Orchestra, Sondre Justad, and SKAAR also performing in Hamar on the 6th of July.
“In addition to the many outdoor festivals, Hamar Center of Performing Arts also offers many great concerts,” says Midtlien. “Celebrating the cultural centre’s 10th anniversary, there will be lots of amazing artists to see this year, including in-
die pop band Highasakite, jazz musician Jan Garbarek, singer-songwriter Kari Bremnes, and 11-times Grammy-nominated pianist Leif Ove Andsnes.”
From concerts to poetry events and plays, Hamar Kulturhus will host an array of fun entertainment over the year, with hopes of providing even more entertainment and fun to the local area in the years to come.
Impressive to even the most blasé of travellers
While music and concerts appeal to many, they are not the only experiences attracting travellers to Hamar. The city is a haven for art lovers, its vibrant cultural scene offering a myriad of artistic experiences, but without the loud hustle and bustle of larger metropolitan areas. Enjoy a quiet stroll through Kunstbanken Art Gallery or, if you’re a lover of opera, Kirsted Flagstad’s home-turned-museum.
If history is more your thing, the possibilities are endless. Hamar’s rich heritage has left it with many historical treasures and landmarks, offering a glimpse into its past. For instance, you can visit the ruins
of the magnificent medieval cathedral at Domkirkeodden, listed among the most beautiful museums in the world. While you’re there, marvel at its architecture, delve into the stories that once took place within its walls and explore the artefacts and relics from Hamar’s past.
Beyond cultural attractions and entertainment, Hamar is also blessed with serene, beautiful surroundings. After a day of museum-hopping, concerts, and culinary experiences, you may take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the shores of Mjøsa, Norway’s largest lake.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, have a crack at hiking Hedmarksvidda.
Indeed, while relatively unknown compared to other large Norwegian cities, Hamar packs a punch when it comes to cultural possibilities. From its rich history to booming festivals, this is a charming gem of the Norwegian heartland. On top of all the fun experiences available, the city’s warm and welcoming community sets it apart. Even to the most blasé of travellers, Hamar is truly impressive.
www.hamar.no
Every year, Helsinki becomes the epicentre of equestrian excitement as the Helsinki International Horse Show takes centre stage. Drawing in massive crowds of over 50,000 spectators, this event offers a thrilling showcase of world-class horse jumpers in action.
By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Satu PirinenThe Helsinki International Horse Show is the largest annual indoor arena event in Finland. The renowned show sees world-class horse jumpers vying for victory in the prestigious Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier.“In 1985, my colleague, Patrick Lagus, and I wanted to create the world’s best equestrian competition. Nearly four decades later, the event is more successful than ever,” says Tom Gordin, director of the event.
This year’s Helsinki Horse Show will be held at the Helsinki Ice Hall from 23 to 27 October. The event has seen most of the top international riders competing
over the years. Last year, the event attracted the amazing top five riders in the world, including Swedish Olympic Gold Medalist and current World Champion, Henrik von Eckermann.
Equestrian excellence is at the heart of the Helsinki International Horse Show, where the bond between rider and horse takes centre stage. Each year, this event captivates audiences from around the world with its fast-paced action and breathtaking jump-offs, showcasing the skill and dedication of top riders from across the globe.
A t the show, the emotional connection between the jumper and the horse is palpable in every stride. “This is truly a top jumping sport, and our event is thrilling for absolutely everyone. I call it a sport of two hearts: the rider’s and the horse’s. It’s magical seeing how they share an emotional connection and work together to achieve amazing things,” says Gordin.
Tickets for the event are on sale until October, and there are a number of hospitality packages for those who want to pamper themselves and enjoy the show from a Ringside Table or Private Lounge – or have access to the VIP Lounge and a stylish VIP Buffet, to mention a few.
In addition to the Main Event, there is also the traditional Horse Expo, a marketplace boasting close to 80 exhibitors from across the globe showcasing their
products and services to horse enthusiasts and professionals alike.
A world-leading sustainable equestrian event
One thing the people behind the Helsinki Horse Show are incredibly proud of is its commitment to sustainability. Between 2022 and 2023, the Horse Show decreased its carbon footprint by nearly 11 percent – a result verified using a carbon footprint calculator developed by the Helsinki Horse Show. It is reportedly the first carbon footprint calculator –or playfully named the ‘Carbon Hoofprint calculator’, specifically designed for equestrian events.
Throughout the years, the Helsinki Horse Show has received numerous awards for its environmental initiatives, and the show is recognised by The International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI) as a model event for sustainable development. “We are one of the country’s largest annual sporting events and our vision is to be the world-leading sustainable equestrian event. We encourage everyone – our subcontractors and partners, as well as visitors and riders – to contribute to reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing ecological practices,” Gordin says.
From the nail-biting competitions to the bustling Horse Expo featuring nearly 80 exhibitors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating the elegance and power of the magnificent
animals. “The show is an exciting mix of ultimate top sport and entertainment. It’s a thrilling experience, and a fantastic way to see some of the world’s best horses and riders doing what they do best,” Gordin concludes.
www.helsinkihorseshow.fi
Facebook: HelsinkiHorseShow
Instagram: @helsinkihorseshow
For tickets and hospitality services: www.ticketmaster.fi
• Helsinki Horse Show runs from 23 to 27 October and is held at Helsinki Ice Hall
• Keep an eye out for the full event line-up of top riders, which will be announced on 24 September 2024.
Helsinki International Horse Show in numbers:
• 50,000 visitors expected
• runs over five full days
• 60 international top riders with 150 horses
• 240 domestic riders and horses have the opportunity to ‘Ride with the stars’.
Beautifully set by the sea, 30 minutes from central Copenhagen, the World-War-I fortress, Mosede Fort, offers visitors a rare combination of historic buildings, thought-provoking exhibitions, and an inviting outdoor landscape.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: Mosede FortBuilt in 1913-16 to defend Denmark against a possible German invasion, Mosede Fort tells the story of the insecurity, fear, and domestic issues caused by war. “Many might connect a war museum purely with bullets and weapons, but our museum explores much more - the effect of war on everyday life and its long-term societal consequences,” explains museum director Mette Tapdrup Mortensen. “It’s a subject which is highly relevant today as we investigate what is at stake when a world conflict falls upon us. It is the question of democracy and independence, of the possibility of maintaining our nation as we know it.”
The museum’s broad reach also attracts a broader audience than your typical war museum. Inside, the visitors can experience the small personnel rooms, the his-
tory of the fort and the effect of the war on Denmark and Europe. Through virtual reality experiences, you can even experience what it was like to be on the Western front. “Some of the most influential politicians of the 20th century, including Hitler and Churchill, were active during the war, so if you don’t understand what happened in the trenches of the First World War, you can’t understand how the future of Europe was shaped,” stresses Mortensen. “It’s about understanding the collective trauma caused by the war, and that’s something which is more relevant now than ever.”
Despite the serious topics, the fort offers a lovely experience for everyone from senior travellers to families with children. “Small children may not understand all the issues, but it is a very
tactile museum; you can touch a lot of things, and there are many interactive elements,” Mortensen explains.
Moreover, the fort’s green outdoor area, which includes the original dry moat, is perfect for games and exploration. One way to do so is through a self-guided treasure hunt. Finally, the fort is only a scenic coastal walk from the picturesque Mosede harbour and its restaurants, offering the option of extending the visit with a lovely lunch by the water.
www.mosedefort.dk
Instagram: @mosedefort
Facebook: Mosede Fort, Danmark 1914-18
When you walk through the doors of Hôtel Reisen — y ou don’t travel back in time, you merely stroll into the memoirs of an eclectic, flamboyant past.
The hotel is set directly on Stockholm’s scenic wat erfront and uses the historic Old Town as its picturesque and tellin g backdrop.
The building’s foundation dates back to 1619 — a ti me when Gustavus Adolphus the Great was the King of Sweden and the w orld had just invented telescopes and steam turbines. www.hotelreisenstockholm.com
Ever wanted to escape to your own private island in the middle of the wilderness? Project Ö has got just the thing for you.
By Ndéla FayeWhat happens when two designers decide to buy an uninhabited island on the southern coast of Finland? In the case of Project Ö, a perfect island getaway was born. Ö, which means island in Swedish, seemed like a fitting name for the project that Aleksi Hautamäki and Milla Selkimäki undertook. The couple felt a draw to the Finnish archipelago and its untouched, rugged scenery and clean sea air. The couple’s favourite area is the southern Finnish coastline, west of Helsinki. “There, the islands are rocky and the landscape is very dramatic, but it’s not too far from the capital,” Selkimäki says.
The couple bought a small boat and finally found their perfect island, Skjulskäret, located in the heart of Archipelago National Park in Southwest Finland. Then, the building work commenced, and soon enough, a gable-roofed house
with big windows rose from the ground. “We wanted to build a house that would complement the surrounding landscape; something that would coexist in harmony with nature,” Hautamäki explains.
Initially, the plan was to use the island as a holiday home for the family, but soon Project Ö’s social media was filled with queries about whether they would rent out the accommodation. Now, the island of Skjulskäret offers visitors an authentic off-the-grid archipelago experience. The island house sleeps up to six people and includes all the comforts of modern life, including a fully equipped kitchen, a toilet and bathroom, and a wood-heated sauna as well as a natural hot tub, and a private beach.
The nearest International airport is Helsinki, which is about a two-hour drive away from Kasnäs, from where a boat ride to the island takes 20 mins. Guests can also reach the island by boat or even helicopter.
Hautamäki and Selkimäki are both designers, with a longstanding background in branding and user experience, and that is clearly reflected in the house’s meticulous design details: everything has
been carefully thought of and designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind. Everything, from acoustics and the breathability of building materials to the placement – and even colour coding – of light switches and water taps, has been considered and selected with the user in mind. “This is a place that not only pleases the senses; it’s also a place where the user experience has directed the house’s design to maximise comfort and functionality,” Hautamäki says.
The architecture is minimal and understated, with the island’s two buildings seamlessly integrated into the landscape. “The star of the show is the surrounding nature, and we wanted to invite nature in, which is why there are big windows throughout the house. The nature is very much a part of the whole house, and the stunning views open up from all the rooms,” Hautamäki adds.
The island offers a variety of authentic experiences: guests can navigate the surrounding waters using kayaks and boats, enjoy basking in the sun on the island’s smooth rock surface, or prepare meals in one of the island’s kitchens. In the evenings, guests can warm up the sauna and relax in the hot tub or take an invigorating dip in the sea.
While visitors have the option of cooking their own meals, they can also choose to delve into the island’s diverse culinary scene by having meals prepared by a professional chef. “If visitors choose to do self-catering, there are plenty of ways
to enjoy traditional island cooking; from open fire barbecues to smoked fish. We can also bring groceries to the island for them to prepare, or they can have a dinner banquet prepared by a skilled chef. We are always happy to tailor our guests’ stay to suit their needs,” says Selkimäki.
More opportunities to reconnect with nature
In 2023, Hautamäki and Selkimäki decided to embark on another island project, and found Gåsskären, a cluster of islets perched on the edge of the open sea, where guests can experience and witness the beauty of nature and the power of the sea.
Nestled on the largest of these islands rests a modernised fisherman’s cabin, which offers all necessary comforts
including running water and electricity. The cabin’s décor draws inspiration from early modernist cabin architecture, creating a cosy and warm ambience. The outdoor decking provides a great setting for dining, cooking, or watching the stunning island sunsets from a hot tub.
Indeed, Project Ö is all about rekindling a connection between yourself and nature, and the couple behind it has another exciting island venture in the pipeline, which will launch shortly. “For us, Project Ö is about enjoying the solitude the islands have to offer. We want to offer others the opportunity to experience everything the archipelago has to offer,” Selkimäki concludes.
www.project-o.fi
Instagram: @project_archipelago
Gåsskären
Project Ö
At Den Blå Planet, Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, you can experience life beneath the surface, promising sights that are otherwise only available on screen. However, at the aquarium, visitors don’t just look; they step into an underwater universe where all senses are brought to life.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: Den Blå PlanetHoused in an award-winning architectural building in Kastrup, Den Blå Planet’s 23,000 animals, seven million litres of water, and 727 species are no more than a 15-minute trip by metro and foot from Copenhagen Airport (and a 30-minute trip from the capital’s central station).
Moreover, unlike the TV screen, the aquarium offers several chances to literally immerse yourself, or at least parts of yourself, in the experience. At the aquarium’s tropical touch pool you can, for instance, get up close and personal with species like cownose rays and bamboo sharks. “You just experience things differently when you get your hands in the water, and it is not just the children – the adults can’t help but try it as well,” explains Amalie Stubkjær Nissen, communication.
Another place to get up and personal with the aquarium’s inhabitants is in the Rainforest, where animals like birds, sloths, and insects roam freely as you stroll through. Just as popular is the aquarium’s adoring population of sea otters. “All the sea otters at the aquarium have been rescued in the wild in Alaska because they got separated from their mothers or were injured,” explains Nissen. “After they are rescued, they cannot be rewilded, and we are very happy to be able to offer them a new home here.”
The sea otters are not the only creatures to have been through a bit of a rough time before reaching safety at the aquarium.
In 2020, a group of tourists came across a tiny sea turtle on the Danish West Coast. The sea turtle, which had mistakenly ended up in the cold Danish waters, was
quickly transported to Den Blå Planet where it was nursed back to health. Today, it is a thriving and highly popular member of the aquarium’s underwater community –and a reminder that an aquarium offers not just entertainment on a rainy day, but a real world of adventure and life.
To ensure the best experience and guarantee entrance, tickets should be booked online.
www.denblaaplanet.dk
Facebook: Den Blå Planet
Instagram: @denblaaplanet
Not far from Jotunheimen National Park - where, according to folklore, the trolls live - nestled by fir trees, lies the Herangtunet boutique hotel. But while the hotel’s buildings look like something out of a Norwegian fairy tale, the risk of meeting trolls is very low.
The story behind this former farm, now a boutique hotel, truly has elements of a fairy tale to it: In 2023 Danielle Jagtenberg and Dennis Koot began their very own adventure when they left their home, friends and family in The Netherlands. The destination was a small village called Heggenes, in Norway.
It was quite a life change, one that some might find scary, but not this couple. “This new journey brings us closer to our true selves,” says Danielle. “And allows us to blend our passion for hospitality with our love for nature and outdoor adventures.”
The couple chose the right place for outdoor adventures: For slalom skiers, Beitostølen ski resort is only a twenty-minute drive away. Beitostølen also has 180 kilometres of trails for the cross-country skiers.
But Herangtunet is not just a winter destination. There are mountain tops for every experience level to summit, endless trails to walk, and mountain trout to catch. Sitting outside, sharing food prepared over an open fire and listening to old stories of gods and warriors, is another truly special
www.cosytimesceramics.dk
Instagram: @cosytimesceramics.kerteminde
experience available in both summer and winter. Another option is to enjoy dinner inside Herhangtunet’s restaurant.
“With our move to Norway, a new chapter began at the beautiful Herangtunet Boutique Hotel,” Danielle says. “We love sharing the magic of this place and the beauty of the Valdres region with our guests.”
www.herangtunet.com
Facebook: Herangtunet
Instagram: @herangtunet
The Hirschsprung Collection is an intimate museum located in the beautiful Østre Anlæg park in Copenhagen. Inside this little gem, you will find an impressive collection of Danish art from the 19th century. Whether you are an art lover, a history enthusiast or fascinated by architecture, The Hirschsprung Collection is a must-visit.
By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: PRTucked away in the charming Østre Anlæg on Stockholmsgade in Copenhagen, you will find the Hirschsprung Collection. The museum houses the art collection of Pauline (1845-1912) and Heinrich Hirschsprung (1836-1908), who made their fortune from tobacco manufacturing. The impressive collection consists of major masterpieces by prominent artists such as C. W. Eckersberg, Christen Købke, J. Th. Lundbye, Anna Ancher, P. S. Krøyer, Bertha Wegmann, and Vilhelm Hammershøi; from the Danish Golden Age to the Skagen Painters and the Symbolists.
“It’s a small museum which gives you the opportunity to take in all the impressions and immerse yourself in the art, without being overwhelmed. Typically,
visitors spend an hour to an hour and a half at the museum,” says Camilla Klitgaard Laursen, museum director at The Hirschsprung Collection.
The Hirschsprung Collection first opened its doors to the public in 1911 and was specifically designed to house Heinrich and Pauline Hirschsprung’s art collection as the couple donated their extraordinary collection of Danish art to the nation. When wandering the museum, it feels like you are transported back in time. With mosaic floors, a stunning foyer with a colourful ceiling, and skylights, you can easily understand why this grand building, designed by H. B. Storck, is heritage listed.
“The museum has a cosy, home-like atmosphere, but while it is intimate, the
architecture is still grand and impressive. It’s built in a classicist style inspired by the Italian Renaissance - the building itself is a piece of art,” says Laursen.
Inside the halls of the museum, you can also browse the museum shop. Here you will find ceramics, jewellery and textiles from local artists. You can also treat yourself to a new art book or perhaps a print with your favourite piece of art. While the Hirschsprung Collection doesn’t have its own café, there are coffee shops and eateries aplenty nearby, some of which will give you a discount when you show your museum ticket.
Soldiers. Art and the Danes at War 1848-1864
This spring and up until 28 July 2024, you can experience the special exhibition Soldiers. Art and the Danes at War 1848-164. The exhibition focuses on the Schleswig Wars (1848-51 and 1864). During these two wars, which shaped Modern Denmark, thousands were killed or wounded and families and communities were torn apart. Soldiers. Art and The Danes at War 1848-1864 focuses on the ordinary Danish soldier and his family and community.
“Until these wars, the ordinary soldier was not portrayed in the arts, and now there was an explosion in paintings of soldiers. It was easy for Danish people to relate to.
Everyone knew someone who had been sent to war, whether it was a son, a brother or a neighbour. The soldier became a symbol of nationalism,” explains Laursen.
The exhibition makes you reflect and ponder questions such as: How did we perceive and understand the soldiers and their struggles? What happened to the scars of those who returned from war? You will be confronted with the brutal realities of war, grief and loss, but you will also see the friendships that were born between soldiers during the wars.
“War affects all of us, whether we like it or not. In the exhibition, we show three films made in collaboration with the Danish Veteran Association. Here you will meet three war veterans that draw a connection from the past to the present
as the themes explored during the Schleswig Wars are just as relevant today as they were 150 years ago,” says Laursen.
If you are unable to make it to Copenhagen before the end of Soldiers. Art and The Danes at War 1848-1864, you can look forward to the museum’s autumn exhibition. From 28 August 2024 until 12 January 2025, you can experience an exhibition about female artists in the Danish Modern Breakthrough movement (1870-1900). While women have been creating artwork for just as long as men, they have been overlooked in art history for centuries - this exhibition is a tribute to these women.
www.hirschsprung.dk
Facebook: Den Hirschsprungske Samling Instagram: @hirschsprungskesamling
Every month the menu at Restaurant RADIO changes to reflect the produce of the season, putting it at the forefront of an innovative and sustainable menu. But while RADIO’s kitchen is filled with ambition and enthusiasm, the vibe at the modern and informal eatery is friendly and relaxed.
By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: Chris TonnesenA thoroughly contemporary establishment, Restaurant RADIO takes its name from its location in the neighbourhood of Frederiksberg, next to the former headquarters of the Danish Broadcasting Corporation, ‘Radio Huset’. Having first opened its doors in 2011, RADIO is the brainchild of NOMA co-founder Claus Meyer, former NOMA deputy Jesper Kirketerp, and Rasmus Kliim, former assistant chef at Geist. Together the three visionary chefs wanted to create a place, where they could share their passion for excellent local, seasonal produce, and make this affordable to a much wider audience. Think Michelin star quality at the cost of a decent pub lunch.
Let them eat truffles and caviar
Head chef Patrick Godborg has been at the helm of RADIO since 2021; his focus
is solely on creating great food. In other words, this is not an ego-driven vehicle for a chef hell-bent on reinventing the wheel, but a restaurant where flavour and quality are key. With many years of experience in some of Denmark’s most
prolific restaurants, there is no doubt Godborg is an outstanding chef. To prove it, he has a “Restaurant of the Year” and a Michelin star to his name and has won several chef competitions in Denmark over the years. But for him, it is no longer about intricate menus and experimental cooking, but about a desire to make food that follows the changing seasons as closely as possible and to be truly sustainable, creating exciting dishes that do not cost the earth. Since Godborg joined, the values at RADIO have not changed.
“But there may be more caviar and truffles on the menu now” he laughs. This is a place not just for the elite foodies, but for anyone interested in fantastic, locally sourced food.
Menus reflect the changing seasons
To secure the very best in seasonal, Danish products, RADIO sources its raw produce from local suppliers. “Currently our menu is pescetarian,” Godborg says. “And during the summer, we hardly ever feature meat on the menu.”
The menu changes every month, providing a welcome challenge to the kitchen as well as an educational experience for guests, who will only ever be served dishes created from seasonal, sustainable, local produce. Indeed, the RADIO team strongly believes that creating great food goes hand in hand with excellent produce, expert skills and techniques.
Godborg works closely with sous chef Emil Maimann, and together with the rest of the team at RADIO they design a menu of new dishes each month. “Everyone can chip in,” he says, explaining that all staff write ideas on a communal wall in the kitchen. This then becomes the starting point when creating the next menu. “We are a little spunky,” he says with a laugh, describing how much fun they have with the process. “And we always keep an eye on what is happening on the food scene which keeps things modern.”
The fact that everyone at RADIO loves playing around with flavours clearly manifests in the evolving menus and
flavour combinations. Godborg creates many dishes based on memories and experiences, good as well as bad ones. “Once I got lost in a forest in Norway and ended up having to eat this tinned dish with fish balls in curry sauce,” he says. “It is the worst meal I have ever had.” Nonetheless, inspired by this dish Godborg has created a delicious dish of, exactly, fish meatballs in a curried sauce fit for a restaurant. “I like the process of inventing new dishes, but more than anything, I love seeing our guests enjoying the food. That is what it is all about!” he says.
Food snobbery is on the way out “We are essentially a beginner’s level introduction to fine dining,” Godborg says. This means there are no rules in the kitchen, and the atmosphere in the restaurant is unpretentious. High-quality craftsmanship and produce are paired with a relaxed and modern approach to dining out. ”The snobbery surrounding fine dining is slowly on the way out, and our guests seem to prefer to eat out more often and less expensively, rather than a very expensive meal on a rare occasion,” he says.
This trend chimes perfectly with the informal and unpretentious high-end dining experience that is the unwavering characteristic of Restaurant RADIO. Here, chefs love to create playful, inventive budget-friendly food and everyone is welcome to sample their ever-changing exciting seasonal dishes.
www.restaurantradio.dk/en/ Instagram: @restaurantradio Facebook: RADIO
The ownership of RADIO is evenly split between Noma founder Claus Meyer and the LOCA Group (‘Love before cash’), which puts sustainable gastronomy at the core of all its businesses with the tagline ‘every meal matters’.
LOCA: locarestauranter.dk/en/ about-loca/
For over a century, Helsinki Congress Paasitorni has stood as a beacon for gathering, decision-making, and vibrant experiences, seamlessly blending culture, business, and design. Nestled in the heart of Finland’s capital, this stunning Art Nouveau building is a testament to architectural elegance and a legacy of hosting diverse events.
By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Helsinki Congress PaasitorniWith a commitment to delivering a comprehensive experience, Paasitorni boasts nearly 30 versatile meeting spaces that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual and meeting technology, the venue caters to a wide range of events, from intimate meetings to grand international conferences and glamorous dinner galas. The crown jewel is Paasitorni’s spectacular Congress Hall, which is capable of accommodating up to 800 people.
“At Paasitorni, we strive to provide our clients with the best service, ensuring meticulous planning and flawless execution for every event,” says Anu Penttilä, chief commercial officer at Paasitorni.
Designed by architect Karl Lindahl and erected in 1908, Paasitorni’s granite structure is a timeless masterpiece. The building’s 1925 extension, reflects Nor-
dic Classicism, and adds to the venue’s historical significance. Helsinki Congress Paasitorni’s impressive façade is made of stone hewn from rock located on the site. “Paasitorni is historically important and we are very proud to be currently on our way to hopefully become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It would be fantastic for the building to get the recognition it deserves,” says Penttilä.
Unique dining experiences and on-site accommodation
Paasitorni’s own restaurant, Paasiravintola, is the heart of the venue, offering premium-quality conference services, business lunches, dinners, cocktail receptions, and themed events. It’s a space where culinary excellence meets a welcoming and stylish ambience. For another unique restaurant experience, just behind Paasitorni is Restaurant Meripaviljonki, a floating seafood restaurant with panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Paasitorni also has a hotel, Scandic Paasi, with 170 rooms on site. “Our hotel offers stylishly decorated accommodation to guests, making this an ideal venue to host overnight conferences and other events. Each room has been decorated to reflect the building’s history,” says the chief commercial officer and concludes:
“Paasitorni’s stunning design, coupled with its seaside location, makes it an ideal choice for clients seeking a memorable venue for their events. We offer a full-service experience for all kinds of meetings and events.”
www.paasitorni.fi
Facebook: Paasitorni
Instagram: @paasitorni
There is a hidden fintech revolution happening in Finland – and Narvi is at the forefront of it. Narvi, an alternative to your traditional business bank account, has set an ambitious standard for itself: crafting a banking product meticulously tailored to the needs of global businesses.
By Ndéla Faye | Photos: NarviIn an era where global business complexities are on the rise, traditional banks often find themselves struggling to keep pace with the rapidly evolving landscape and the dynamic needs of their clientele. While many fintech firms have prioritised and focused solely on scalability, Narvi distinguishes itself by providing exceptional customer support and being a private banker of sorts to small and medium-sized enterprises.
For the company, providing a smooth and quick service to clients is essential to their purpose. In short, Narvi has three goals: to provide a flexible payment technology with a human touch, offer personalised support for each client, and advise and tailor a payment solution that comprehensively addresses clients’ business requirements.
Narvi’s powerful integrated solution works seamlessly with local and international customers and suppliers. We want to reinvent global business bank-
ing – and make it better,” says Neil Ambikar, Narvi’s chief financial officer and co-founder.
Regulated as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) in Finland, Narvi’s distinctiveness stems from its in-house development of core banking technology. This bespoke infrastructure not only ensures a smoother and more streamlined banking experience for users but also facilitates API-first banking services for businesses. “Our agile technological framework enables us to swiftly integrate new features, ensuring that we remain at the vanguard of modern digital banking,” Ambikar explains.
“Our experience in this market tells us that a large number of higher-turnover digital businesses are increasingly looking for a solution that is customisable and offers strong support.”
With clients spanning Europe and beyond, Narvi’s system supports SEPA as well as global payments, enabling
seamless transactions across more than 100 countries. Moreover, Narvi has to adhere to strict safeguards and regulatory standards, and all of Narvi’s customers’ funds are held at reputable banks in the European Union.
Narvi’s innovative platform and extensive know-how empower companies to expand their global footprint while offering a seamless and expedited interface that allows businesses to concentrate on their core operations. “At Narvi, we are driven by our commitment to infuse the renowned Nordic ethos of trustworthiness and reliability into international banking. We are building the future of banking services,” Ambikar concludes.
www.narvi.com
LinkedIn: Narvi-com
Located in a beautiful old townhouse in the heart of Copenhagen, the David Collection exhibits one of the ten largest collections of Islamic art in the Western world. The museum also holds collections of European 18th-century art and Danish early modern art but, this year, an extensive special exhibition on calligraphy is the absolute main attraction.
By Signe Hansen | Photos: Pernille-KlempFounded in 1945 by the Danish lawyer and art collector C. L. David, the David Collection is not an ordinary art museum. The collection is exhibited within its founder’s old townhouse in Kronprinsessegade and gives visitors a uniquely intimate experience. “David wanted people to feel at home when visiting his collection; he wanted it to be a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and that’s exactly what many people enjoy - the feeling of calm that saturates the many small rooms and different floors of his townhouse,” says curator Anette Lindbøg Karlsen.
Inspired by his godmother Agnes Lunn, a recognised sculptress, David began col-
lecting art at a young age and by the time of his death in 1960 had an impressive collection of European 18th-century art and Danish early modern art as well as, more unusually, Islamic art. After 1960, the C. L. David Foundation and Collection, to which David left his home and collection, decided to focus on expanding the Islamic collection, and it is, today, the largest collection of Islamic art in Scandinavia. Indeed, including a wide range of metalware, ceramics, textiles and miniature paintings from all eras and corners of the Islamic world, the collection has a range and scope that is not matched in many places in the West. “The reach of the exhibition is very wide - the overall aim is to broaden our audience’s knowledge of
art from the Islamic world from the year 600 and up until 1900,” explains Karlsen.
Alongside, the three collections, the museum presents regular special exhibitions. Opening 24 May, this year’s exhibition Beyond Words. Calligraphy from the Islamic world will present a broad introduction to the geographical, chronological, and material diversity of the use of calligraphy.
“Calligraphy is one of the most important art forms within the Islamic world and it covers numerous materials and work categories,” Karlsen explains.
During the special exhibition, the collection of Danish early modern art will not be on display.
Entrance to all exhibitions is free.
www.davidmus.dk
Instagram: @thedavidcollection
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With the 68th Eurovision Song Contest rolling into Malmö in May, following Loreen’s iconic win for Sweden last year, all eyes will be on Skåne to see which country gets to lift the glass trophy in 2024. Could it be a Nordic nation that does it again?... Well, all 5 of them have now selected the songs they’ll be sending next month.
Host nation Sweden has got Norwegian twins Marcus & Martinus representing them. The brothers are now based in Sweden having won the Swedish version of The Masked Singer. And now that the Swedish viewers of Melodifestivalen have voted the boys as having the best song, it’s Unforgettable that will be Sweden’s entry on home soil.
Over in Norway, it’s the alternative rock band Gåte that will be heading across the
I went to see my sisters in Stockholm recently and as I was packing my bag, it dawned on me that I had to make some serious sock decisions. When you live in a country where people never take their shoes off you don’t make serious sock choices. You put on whatever socks happen to be available. Green, red, stripy, mix it up. Nobody will know.
However, if you are planning on going to my Motherland, you will need to plan your packing around what matching socks you have, since you will be required to take your shoes off in people’s homes. In Sweden, all must be colour coordinated, or preferably, simply black.
I had to dig deep into my sock drawer and in some ways, it was quite a meditative experience. While digging through the drawer I contemplated the fact that I had not
border to perform for their country. Their song Ulveham is the first Norwegian-language Eurovision entry since 2006.
In Iceland, the singer Hera Björk makes a return to the Eurovision Song Contest, having previously taken her country to the Grand Final in 2010, with Je Ne Sais Quoi For the 2024 contest, the Icelandic performer will be singing her dance anthem Scared Of Heights
Last year’s runners-up to Sweden, Finland, are returning with another show-stopping entry that leans into the more entertaining side of the Contest. No Rules by Windows96man takes us back to the cheesier side of ‘90s and ‘00s Europop. And it’s a trip that no doubt plenty of viewers will be happy to take in May.
heard about any fungal epidemic going on in the UK. Perhaps the shame is too deep. Perhaps the worst is still to come. We all watched The Last of Us...
My Northern Irish husband has shared with me that when I go away, he lets loose and walks around our home with his shoes on. His feet steaming in his boots, half leather, half plastic.
By Karl Batterbee
Finally, in Denmark, it will be SABA taking the short trip over the Øresund Bridge to perform her bittersweet yet uplifting breakup anthem SAND. She might well be spurred on by the fact that the last time the Contest was held in Malmö, Denmark went home with the trophy!
www.scandipop.co.uk
By Gabi FrodenI reprimanded him and put up cameras to monitor whether he really is that annoying.
Finally, I had amassed a pile of socks for my trip. Four pairs of socks that matched. It was then I realised, I needed to work on my sock game. We should all work on our sock game. There should be a national campaign on how to work on your sock game! A smelly, mixy-matchy foot situation is not going to help anybody.
I am embarrassed I have fallen so far from my Scandinavian moral high ground.
Gabi Froden is a Swedish illustrator and writer, living in Glasgow with her husband and two children. Her children’s and YA books are published in Sweden by Bonnier Carlsen and Natur&Kultur. www.gabifroden.com
In this month’s column, I’m diving into the 96th Academy Awards. Held on the 10th of March it is arguably the most important event of the awards season. Needless to say, my focus will be on how Scandinavian cinema fared.
By Anders LorenzenSadly this year’s awards were not billed to be a great year for Scandinavian cinema, with none of the countries being nominated in the best International Feature Film category. However, it is worth adding that this category, which has recently been renamed from Best Foreign Language Film, no longer has to be in a foreign language - just produced outside the US - making it harder for foreign language films to compete. And, in this year’s awards, it was indeed won by an English-language film.
In Denmark, all hopes were pinned on the short film Ridder Lykke (Knight of Fortune), nominated in the Live Action Short Film category (sadly it was not successful). Directed by Lasse Lyskjær Noer, the storyline centres around the loss of a loved one, the grief, the risk of yellow skin, and a coffin, being all too
the announcement of the selection for the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, one of the best-known and high-profile film festival awards outside the Academy Awards. With many Scandinavian films slated for inclusion, you are sure to read more about this in next month’s column. much for the main character of the film, Karl, to face. However, a chance encounter with a stranger helps him face his pain. The film is 25 minutes long and is produced by Jalabert Production.
Elsewhere there was success for Sweden as the Swedish composer Ludwig Göransson picked up his second Oscar for his score on Oppenheimer, the biggest winner at the Academy Awards. His Academy Award win for Best Original Score adds to the recognition the 39-year-old composer has got for his work on Oppenheimer, having also won a Grammy, Golden Globe, BAFTA, Critics Choice and Society of Composers & Lyricists awards for the score on the high-profile film.
Staying on the tune of the festivals and awards season, a key date for April is
Bathrooms for everyone! (until 28 April)
Everyday design is something you never pay attention to, at least until it stops working. A fun exhibition at the Gustavsberg Porcelain Museum looks at how bathrooms developed throughout
the 21st century. Gustavsberg has been the home of porcelain making in Sweden since 1825. You may well be able to spot a familiar-looking toilet seat from your childhood home here!
Odelbergs väg 5, Gustavsberg gustavsbergsporslinsmuseum.se
Portraits of Seduction (until 28 April)
The now-former Danish Queen Margrethe II is well known not only for her long reign but also for her artistic pursuits. This exhibition brings her together with another Danish icon, the author Karen Blixen. Portraits of Seduction
features Her Majesty’s designs for a film adaptation of a Blixen story: costume sketches, decoupages and more. The Blixen Museum is well worth a visit to learn more about the colourful author. Rungsted Strandvej 111, Rungsted Kyst blixen.dk
Generation WHY (until 28 April)
Generation WHY, a play on Generation Y (born between 1977 and 1994) gives you the chance to check out works by 26 Nordic artists hand-picked by three curators. There is a great diversity in media, from ceramics to dust and fungi, and the exhibition itself is in Copenhagen’s famous “round tower” — great for checking out the views and a step-free walk to the top.
Købmagergade 52 A, Copenhagen rundetaarn.dk
Koreorama (until 30 April)
It is always great to be able to witness fresh new talent on stage, and Koreorama at the Royal Danish Ballet is an excellent opportunity to do just that. It is an evening of three new choreographies created by company soloist Tobias Praetorius and corps de ballet members Tara Schaufuss and Matteo Di Loreto. All tickets are around a very reasonable 40€. August Bournonvilles Passage 8, Copenhagen kglteater.dk
Carl Knif Company: I address you (26 April to 4 May)
Dancer and choreographer Carl Knif has created a highly personal piece of work for himself in I address you, which explores, among others, the unwritten history of the gay minority. Expect a “furious performance and plenty to discuss afterwards at the Dance House Helsinki bistro.
Kaapeliaukio 3, Helsinki carlknifcompany.com
Simon Fujiwara: It’s a Small World (until 13 October)
What does it mean to be a genuine self in today’s world? British-Japanese artist Simon Fujiwara’s (b. 1982) works are inspired by the history of art just as much as theme parks, and often feature cartoonish characters depicted in an absurd way. The exhibition also includes four videos and performative works from an earlier stage in Fujiwara’s career.
Mannerheiminaukio 2, Helsinki kiasma.fi
through 1000 years (until 6 February 2025)
Ukraine is still very much on the agenda, and the Armémuseum in central Stockholm has decided to showcase the lengthy historical connections — from trade to politics and diplomacy — between Ukraine and Sweden. Some of the oldest objects on display are from the Viking period. Did you know that Princess Ingegerd Olofsdotter of Sweden and Jaroslav I of Kiev were married?
Riddargatan 13, Stockholm armemuseum.se
This is my house!
Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus (Alfie Atkins’ Cultural Centre) is a creative cultural centre for children and their adults.
This is a place where curious children can play, get up to mischief, climb and discover a world full os exciting things. Slussgatan 1, Gothenburg, Sweden
Arctic Roe of Scandinavia is the pioneering producer of the world’s most unique delicacy, Black Caviar, produced without a single fish having to die. Sturgeons have become extinct and making Black Caviar without killing the fish aids in the recovery and survival of the world’s sturgeon population. A microchip is affixed to each sturgeon so its growth curve and harvests can be monitored over a decade or longer. Every second year, the females are milked for caviar, and on each caviar tin or jar sold, the name of the individual female sturgeon and the date of production are printed on a label.
The female sturgeons occupy an abandoned paper mill in southern Sweden on the banks of the
massive river Lagan that empties into the North Sea. The aqua system at Arctic Roe recycles more than 99% of the daily water consumption, and on-site wells provide water for the property. Swedish Black Caviar can be found in several Guide Michelin restaurants, fish delicacies and retail stores. It can also be ordered directly from the company.
Arctic Pearl Caviar by Arctic roe of Scandinavia was served to 1,350 guests including the Swedish Royal family and all Nobel prize laureates at the Nobel Prize Award dinner on December 10, 2023 in Stockholm City Hall.