SCANDINAVIAN monthly │ Issue No.12 │ May 2022 by Tor

SCANDINAVIAN Monthly EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

ART & MUSIC SPECIAL LOOK FEEL AND PLAY WITH BERLIN-BASED DANISH ARTIST

TWO OF DENMARK’S FAMOUS SONS

THE CITIES AND TOWNS OF NORWAY

The Danish artist Jeppe Hein is famous

In the 19th century, two Funen boys, the

There is an interesting book on the cities

for making benches, fountains and a bar.

storyteller Hans Christian Andersen and

and towns of Norway, illustrated by 15 of

Many Scandinavians...

the composer Carl Nielsen, set off ...

Norway’s most popular illustrators...

ACCOMODATION ● SPORTS ● ATTRACTIONS ● BUSINESS ARCHITECTURE ● SOCIETY ● FOOD ● HISTORY ● BOOKS ● HUMOR

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Contents 4

Art & Music Special Look Feel and Play with Berlin-Based Danish Artist

Best Movies About Scandinavia To See Before Travelling

MUNCH Presents SANDRA MUJINGA in SOLO, the OSLO Series

A German Artist’s Island Stable in Norway

Two of Denmark’s Famous Sons

The Cities and Towns of Norway

Accomodation An Extraordinary Swedish Spa Hotel

Sports The Norwegian Gold Rush in Beijing Winter Olympics

The Great Norwegian Racing Driver Talent

Attractions 150 km of Playground in Denmark

The First UNESCO Global Geopark in Denmark

Business Scandinavian E-Commerce Trends 2022

The Danish Energy Island

Hydrogen Storage Facility in Sweden Has Reached Reached Halfway Point in Construction

Architecture Awarded Multi-Purpose Sports Hall in Copenhagen

Society Why There Is No Plan B for Sweden’s Bee Population

Food Why You Need to Try Swedish Surströmming

History Norwegian-Built Polar Ship Found After Over 100 Years Under Ice

The Norwegian China-Man

Book Norwegian Researchers on Ukraine’s Astonishing Defense Humor

Humor in Scandinavia

Editor’s Note

he world’s three biggest

This month I would like to praise our

Formula 1 teams have been

columnist Karoline Gore. Her colums

following Dennis Hauger (b.

are always educational as well as en-

2003) closely for several

tertaining. This month she highlights

years. Since his teens he has been

the dramatic consequences f declining

beating the world’s fastest on the go-

bee population based on a recent edi-

kart track. The way forward next year

torial piece by Professor van der Slujs

will be Formula 2. Dennis has Formula

from the University of Bergen.

1 as a distant goal, but he can concentrate well on the moment. When asked

And I think our food section this

where the main character himself will

month about why you should try the

be in five years, he replies: “Then hope-

Swedish classic surströmming (or

fully in a Formula 1 car. But I’ll go step

maybe not) is worth reading.

by step, then we’ll see.” Read the fascinating story about Dennis Hauger.

And we all need a good laugh, so from this issue on, our last article will

In this issue we are once again ready

contain humor from Scandinavia and

to hit you with some Scandinavian

the north.

inspiration in the worlds of design, business, culture and jst about any-

I hope you enjoy this issue. See you

thing else with a Nordic twist. We had

next month!

an interesting visit to Bergen Børs

Tor

Hotel (page xx). Did you know that this hotel was the Bergen stock exchange in 1862 and became one of the finest hotels in Bergen in 2017?

Tor Kjolberg Editor In Chief

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Art & Music Special

Look Feel and Play with Berlin-Based Danish Artist

Artist Jeppe Hein. Photo: Kistefos

Feature image (on top): Eye of the North (Lofoten) by Jeppe Hein

Path of Silence at Kistefos Museum outside Osl

Hein studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Art between 1997 and 2003 and at the Städelschule in Frankfurt between 1999 and 2000 (while registered as an associate student of the Danish Academy). As a student Hein was co-founder of OTTO, a non-commercial organization that organized art exhibitions at various venues in Denmark between 1997 and 2000.

Art & Music Special

he Danish artist Jeppe Hein is famous for making benches, fountains and a bar. Many Scandinavians have walked in his sculpture Path of Silence at the Kistefos Museum outside Oslo. You’re hereby invited to look, feel and play with the Berlin-based Danish artist.

Hein has installed his greatest work till

Related: Short Stories by Scandinavian

date, Path of Silence.

Artist Duo

Kristan Sveaas’ sculpture park Kistefos

“My works are an incongruous

at Jevnaker outside Oslo houses five

dialogue between the art and the

of the artist’s modified social benches

viewer and to use humor to broaden

– made in a blue color that is exclusive

the limits of conceptual art. I want

to the museum. They bulge and

to show that the work isn’t anything

challenge the way we sit, and appear

on its own, it is only what the public

to be connected underground. First

informs it with. The viewers’ role brings

and foremost, a formidable labyrinth of

the piece to the center of attention,”

water, nature and 450 steel columns

he says.

is just a short walk away, which with its several hundred square meters is

Working in the overlap of art,

the largest installation the Dane has

architecture, design, and technical

Hein’s art addresses the senses and

ever made. Hein had the mission in

interventions, Jeppe Hein has always

curiosity of the audience. You don’t

mind while going on a pilgrimage from

considered the social potential of

really know if you should call his

Dombås in 2014. When he came back,

art a driving force. With focus on the

works art, architecture or technology.

the idea was ready.

intuitive, physical, and emotional

Related: Sculptures Around Norway

However, the viewer is always of

experience of art, he insists on Eye of the North is an eight-meter-

addressing people of all ages,

high and five-meter-wide mirror

backgrounds, and levels of education,

installation located on Lofoten,

promoting a dialogue between the

Norway. Standing on a small hill,

work and its surroundings and, more

the installation is visible from afar

importantly, among the viewers

and allows visitors to look into the

themselves. He invites us to look –

Between September 2009 and

landscape. The elliptically shaped

feel – and play!

January 2010, Hein stayed at

sculpture, with a concave vaulted

Alexander Calder’s studio in Saché,

front and a convex vaulted back, has

Look Feel and Play with Berlin-Based

France, as a part of an artist in

a round opening in the middle with

Danish Artist, written by Tor Kjolberg

residence program. In the middle of

a diameter of 1.5 meter that can be

the magnificent Norwegian nature

reached via a small stair.

the utmost importance to him. He is particularly known for large sculptures and installations in the outdoor space, often with a social and interactive dimension.

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Best Movies About Scandinavia To See Before Travelling There are many reasons why it is enjoyable to travel to Scandinavia. One of the biggest reasons is that the region is incredibly picturesque and full of stunning landscapes. Prepare yourself by exploring the best movies about Scandinavia to see before travelling.

Art & Music Special

eople in Scandinavia are

inspired to visit some of the locations

It shows some of the tourist

also incredibly friendly,

featured in the films. Here are five of

attractions in Denmark, such as

welcoming, and hospitable,

our favourites.

Krystalgade, a street in central

which makes for a

Copenhagen that was seen during

memorable travelling experience.

Five must-watch films from

the hotel scenes. The offices of

Similarly, the Scandinavian countries

Scandinavia

businessman Jørgen are situated on

are well-developed and offer a wide

Højbro Plads, a rectangular public area

range of cultural experiences and

After the Wedding (2006)

in Copenhagen’s city centre. Tureby

activities. If you’re looking for a

In 2006, Susanne Bier wrote and

Church, near Turebyholm manor, was

fascinating travel destination, don’t

directed the drama film After the

used to film the church and graveyard

miss Scandinavia.

Wedding. A star-studded cast includes

scenes. Denmark, its culture, and its

Sidse Babett Knudsen and Mads

people are fascinatingly depicted in

Whether you’re interested in history,

Mikkelsen. Jacob is an orphanage

the movie.

nature, or just want to experience

director who has dedicated his life

a different part of the world, these

to helping poor street children in

Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)

countries should be at the top of your

India. He is faced with the challenge

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2009)

list. Watching some movies set in

of saving it after its closure due to

is a suspenseful thriller set in Sweden.

Scandinavia is a worthwhile idea if you

too expensive costs. A Danish man

If you’re planning to travel to Sweden,

plan on visiting this part of the world

named Jorgen offers Jacob one million

soon. By doing so, you’ll get an idea

dollars for the orphanage, but Jacob

it’s a wise idea to watch the movie

of what to expect and maybe even be

must first travel to Denmark.

first so that you’ll know what to expect

Feature image (on top) © Pixabay

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is based on the book of the same name by Stieg Larsson. Press photo

from the country. The film is based

The movie provides a fascinating

on the book of the same name by

look at the power of friendship and

Stieg Larsson. It follows the story of

hope. Director Petter Næss does an

Lisbeth Salander, a computer hacker

excellent job of balancing comedy and

who becomes involved in a missing

tragedy, and the cast is fantastic. The

person’s case.

two actors who play Elling and Frank give stellar performances.

Although parts of the movie are fictionalised, it provides a helpful

The film takes you on an unforgettable

overview of life in Sweden and

journey through the gorgeous

some of the country’s customs and

countryside while also providing

traditions. The movie offers a unique

insight into Oslo, Europe’s fastest-

perspective on Swedish life that you

growing city. With endless dining

won’t find anywhere else and will give

options and museums galore (not to

you a sneak peek at their culture and

mention its rich history), this modern

society.

metropolis offers more than enough to keep any visitor satisfied. So, grab

Elling (2001)

some popcorn and settle in for a

If you’re in the mood for something

memorable cinematic experience. You

quirky and offbeat, check out the

won’t regret it.

Norwegian film Elling (2001), about two socially inept brothers trying to make it on their own in Oslo.

See Before Travelling – Ending Note Scandinavia is a popular place to travel because there is so much to see and do. You can visit charming small

Art & Music Special

Best Movies About Scandinavia To

towns, explore stunning landscapes, The Danish Girl tells the story of Einar Wegener (played by Eddie Redmayne), who becomes one of the first people to undergo gender reassignment surgery in the early 1900s. Photo credit: Focus Features

The Square is a movie set in Sweden that takes a look at the art world and the challenges that come with being an artist. Press photo

and experience Scandinavian culture. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy, such as skiing, hiking, and fishing. Plus, Scandinavia is known for its high quality of life, which makes it a pleasant place to relax and recharge.

The Danish Girl (2015)

The Square (2017)

If you’re looking for an unforgettable

If you’re looking for a movie to watch

The Square is a movie set in Sweden

travel experience, be sure to add

that will make you think and feel

that takes a look at the art world and

Scandinavia to your list.

deeply, The Danish Girl is a wise

the challenges that come with being

option. This film tells the story of Einar

an artist. The film has received high

Many people create YouTube videos

Wegener (played by Eddie Redmayne),

praise from critics, and it’s easy to

featuring their favourite Scandinavian

who becomes one of the first people

see why. The Square is a thought-

films. We hope that by reading our

to undergo gender reassignment

provoking, well-made movie that is

selections of the finest Scandinavian

surgery in the early 1900s. The Danish

sure to leave audiences thinking long

movies, you will find one that appeals

Girl is beautifully made, with powerful

after they leave the theatre. If you’re

to you. From comedies to dramas

acting and an inspiring message. It’s

looking for an interesting, intelligent

to thrillers, these films will give you

definitely worth watching.

movie to watch, be sure to check out

a taste of the Scandinavian spirit

The Square. You won’t regret it.

and prepare you for your travels.

Filming took place in Belgium, the

Whether you’re gearing up for a trip

United Kingdom, and Denmark. The

Watching The Square will give you

to Scandinavia or just looking for an

majority of the Danish scenes were

a more insightful look into modern

excuse to watch some entertaining

shot in Copenhagen, the country’s

Swedish culture and Stockholm’s

movies, we’ve got you covered. So,

capital and most populous city.

quirks. For example, the gallery shown

pack your bags, get cosy on the couch,

Denmark’s capital city depicted in

in this movie is housed at Royal Palace

and enjoy.

the film is Copenhagen City Hall, the

which also happens to be where much

seat of the municipal council and the

of the scenes were shot in the city.

Best Movies About Scandinavia To

Lord Mayor. This film also features the

Stockholm is portrayed beautifully

See Before Travelling is a promotional

Royal Danish Theatre, a well-known

in this film, showcasing the Swedes’

article from veed.io

Danish building. Originally built in 1748,

witty sense of humour.

this theatre was the king’s theatre before becoming the country’s theatre.

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

MUNCH Presents SANDRA MUJINGA in SOLO, the OSLO Ser

Solo Oslo is a series of exhibitions in the Munch Museum in Oslo. The exhibi Oslo-based contemporary artists who get the opportunity to develop their pra Sandra Mujinga (b. 1989), one of Norway’s most pioneering young contempo communicator Zeenat Amiri (b. 1988). Both examine issues related to belongi MUNCH presents SANDRA MUJINGA in SOLO, the OSLO series, through Ap

itions focus on actice. First out is orary artists – and ing and alienation. pril 2022.

project, Zeenat Amiri highlights an

lives are tracked and documented

alternative viewer role in the museum

in detail, it can be difficult to hide. At

that is not about what you can do,

the same time, the Internet offers

but what you experience. In the

endless possibilities for re-creation

dissemination project, Amiri shows

and manipulation; to hide behind

that contemporary art is something

avatars or clone themselves on social

you can experience and understand

media.

on your own terms. Here you can hear

Art & Music Special

n ries

n today’s digital culture, where our

the audio files Amiri has produced as One of MUNCH museum’s most

part of her dissemination project.

spectacular rooms This is the backdrop for Sandra

SOLO OSLO

Mujinga‘s solo exhibition at MUNCH.

SOLO OSLO is supported by Talent

In one of the museum’s most

Norway and Canica. The exhibition

spectacular rooms, with eight meters

series will highlight the local art scene

high ceilings, a number of monster-like

with young artists and communicators.

sculptures project vivid images of an

Five solo exhibitions are planned for

avatar figure on partially transparent

the period 2022-2026.

glass walls. The audience’s shadows mix with the character’s, which is

«SOLO OSLO is a unique opportunity

inspired by cartoon heroes, science

for contemporary art and its

fiction and what the artist herself calls

dissemination, and we are very much

«speculative deep – sea creatures».

looking forward to the exhibition series

The figure can be described as

now starting. Sandra Mujinga’s art and

«post-human»; it is neither animal

Zeenat Amiri’s communication skills

nor human, real or invented, but

are very exciting, and we have great

alternates between these states. The

faith that SOLO OSLO will be a key

installation is bathed in Mujinga’s

step in her career and an international

characteristic green light and has a

opportunity for participating artists

subtle soundtrack of synth and string

and communicators. Our initiatives

instruments that creates an alienating,

are characterized by the fact that we

almost extraterrestrial atmosphere in

collaborate with leading environments

the exhibition rooms.

and institutions as well as highly competent private contributors. It

Related: Oslo Welcomes a New

places great demands on all parties

Edvard Munch Museum

to develop top talent and Talent Norway is therefore very pleased with

Not what you can do – but what you

the collaboration with MUNCH and

can experience

Canica,” says general manager of

In her accompanying dissemination

Talent Norway, Maria Mediaas Jørstad.

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

The audience’s shadows mix with the character’s. Press photo: MUNCH

Related: Edvard Munch Trough the

this exhibition series,» says director at

Eyes of Andy Warhol

MUNCH, Stein Olav Henrichsen.

Young artists and new communication

One of the most exciting

methods

contemporary artists in Norway

«Young contemporary art is a major

«Sandra Mujinga is among the

investment in new MUNCH. By

most exciting contemporary artists

presenting young artists and new

we have in the country. Her art is

communication methods, we will

a bit like the science fiction writers

be relevant and attractive to new

she is inspired by: her installations

audience groups. MUNCH wants to

imagine new worlds, create alternative

promote young Norwegian artists and

scenarios and process existing

communicators with close follow-up

material in innovative ways to

from MUNCH’s professional staff.

create extraterrestrial beings. Yet it is

Stability and long-term perspective

something that strikes us as human

are important when working with

beings on an emotional level. Mujinga

development of talent, and we are

creates sensory experiences that allow

proud and happy to have two solid

for reflection and innovation around

players such as Talent Norway and

major themes such as life, death, time,

Canica AS with us. It is crucial for

visibility and human relationships with

MUNCH to create income and activity

other creatures and each other,» says

through collaboration with public and

curator of the exhibition, Tominga

private actors, and we are therefore

O’Donnell.

very happy to finally be able to kick off

Related: The Edvard Munch Art Award Sandra Mujinga tells us that she has been working on this project since 2020. The exhibition proves that she has pushed the boundaries of Art & Music Special

visual experience. Three dragon-like projectors let us see bodies, eyes and body parts under water as well as in space; bodies changing forms like a squid. Are they humans or avatars? “It might be an escape from surveillance or the modern society,” says Sandra. «I’m so proud of this,» says City Councilor for Culture, Sports and Volunteering, Omar Samy Gamal. SOLO OSLO is one of MUNCH’s biggest investments, and not least Sandra Mujinga is a fantastic artist. We need young artists who challenge the established art environments and institutions which opens up new expressions, new stories. Then we must ensure that our most important platforms have room for precisely those artists. It is also about taking

Solo Oslo is a series of exhibitions in the Munch Museum in Oslo. Sandra Mujinga is first out.

seriously how it is experienced by different people to enter a place like MUNCH, and that for some it is experienced as completely foreign. MUNCH and Zeenat Amiri’s associated dissemination project goes right to the heart of this, and shows the way. It’s so cool to see,» adds the city councilor. The SOLO exhibition runs through April 2022. MUNCH Presents SANDRA MUJINGA in SOLO, the OSLO series, written by Tor Kjolberg

«Young contemporary art is a major investment in new MUNCH,” says director at MUNCH, Stein Olav Henrichsen. All images © Tor Kjolberg/Daily Scandinavian if not noted otherwise.

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

A German Artist’s Island Stable in Norway On an island out in the Moldefjord you can find an old cabin which is in every aspect very unusual. The almost twelve square meter organism on Hjertøya is made of stone, an untraditional material for such a building in this area. First and foremost, it has for many years housed one of the leading figures of European modernism. Learn more about a German artist’s island stable in Norway.

ne of the few surviving

display. In addition to the cabin, you

Being a German, his presence at

Merzbau by the

may see paintings, a sculpture and

Hjertøya caused anxiety among the

German Dada artist Kurt

documentation of his life and artistic

Norwegians, who believed him to

Schwitters established

practice.

be a spy. As a result, he moved to

a home in Norway. In 2016, the

England in 1940, and the Merzbau

Romsdal Museum in Molde unveiled

In the late 1930s, the German artist

was left to its own destiny for several

Schwitters’ three-dimensional collage,

Kurt Schwitters (1887-1948) came to

decenniums.

considered a forerunner of installation.

Norway for the first time, on holiday

The existence of the cabin had until

with his wife, and became a regular

The Merzbau

then been a good preserved secret

visitor in Molde from then on. He

The Merzbau has been transferred

internationally.

was closely associated with the

from the island of Hjerteoya, just south

avant-garde movement from the

of the coastal city of Molde, where

Schwitters’ room

period around the First World War,

Schwitters gradually built it inside

Romsdals museum calls it “Schwitters’

primarily to the Dadaists, and known

a former stable in the 1930s. The

room”, where the interior from his

for experiments with sound, writing,

reassembled version is on permanent

Merzbau cabin at Hjertøya is at

sculpture and images.

display.

Art & Music Special

The new Reiulf Ramstad-designed Romsdals Museum in the center of Molde. Photo: Johnny Bratseth/Romsdalsmuseet

During his years at Hjertøya Schwitters transformed his living quarters into what may best be described as an installation of its own. As his political views and artistic practice was not to the likings of the Nazis, his visits to Norway became more and more frequent. At Hjertøya he found an astonishing landscape that he transformed into beautiful paintings, but it´s his collages and installations of lost and found objects that has reserved him a place in international art history. His love of “trash objects” also led him to transform the small cottage he lived in, into a work of art;

According to the museum, it was a

that what is art, and what is rubbish,

The Merzbau.

very complicated process. Only one

depends on the eye that sees. Here

photograph from Schwitters’ time

are just a few of the more naturalistic

Related: Louisiana Museum of Modern

existed, depicting a corner of the barn.

pictures Schwitters painted in Norway,

Art

The staff has remained as faithful as

but it is paper clips, a coin, a pencil

possible to Schwitters’ vision, but had

stub and fragile pieces of paper from

The reconstructed cabin

to remove some of the original plaster,

the cabin that have been placed

The fact that the building was

which contained asbestos.

behind glass. The collage fragments are interesting, but the most striking

emptied of contents and moved to a reconstructed cabin in the new

Related: Kurt Schwitters and Norway

thing about the “new” cabin is the fact that a forward-thinking German artist

Reiulf Ramstad-designed Romsdals Museum in the center of Molde,

The artist built two Merzbau in Norway,

with a solid financial background for

therefore gives both academics and

where he lived between 1937 and

a long time chose to live under such

ordinary people the opportunity to

1940 to escape the Nazis. The other

spartan conditions.

study the remains of Schwitters and

installation, constructed outside Oslo,

get to know the increasingly dramatic

was destroyed in a fire in the 1950s.

A German Artist’s Island Stable in Norway, written by Tor Kjolberg

story of a continental artist rebel who chose to settle on a small island in the

Related: Astrup Fearnley Museum of

Norwegian province – almost in artistic

Modern Art in Oslo 20 Years

solitude. What is art and what is rubbish? Conservation of the installation, which

What can be seen at Romsdalsmuseet

had fallen into despair, began in 2010.

today, is a distinctly concrete example

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Two of Denmark’s Famous Sons In the 19th century, two Funen boys, the storyteller Hans Christian Andersen and the composer Carl Nielsen, set off to make their fortunes in the world. Learn more about these two of Denmark’s famous sons.

wo of Denmark’s most noted

tre Board recognized his skills, and

Carl Nielsen

literary and musical figures,

he was found a place at a grammar

Carl Nielsen was born in Nørre Lyn-

Hans Christian Andersen and

school in Helsingør.

delse, where his childhood home is

Carl Nielsen, were born on

now a museum. His father was a folk

the island of Funen. At the height of

After school, Andersen traveled

musician and Carl played the violin.

his fame, the composer Carl Nielsen

widely. Shadow Picture of a Journey to

His earliest compositions, at the age of

(1865-931), told an audience that his

the Harz Mountains and Saxony (1851)

eight, were two dance tunes.

mother had always said to him: “Don’t

was the result of his early adventures.

forget that Hans Christian Andersen was a poor boy like you.”

Like Andersen, Nielsen wrote an auThroughout his life he continued to

tobiography, My Childhood in Funen.

write poems, novels and plays. His

At the Royal Theatre Orchestra in

There may have been something in

autobiographical novel, The Improvi-

Copenhagen, where Nielsen became

the Funen air that inspired poor boys

satore, described the rise to fortune of

second violinist, the Norwegian con-

to rise to fame, but it is more likely that

a poor Italian boy. His early fairy tales,

ductor Johan Svendsen encouraged

Nielsen was inspired by Andersen, 60

including The Tinder Box and The

him to compose. At 25, Nielsen won a

years his senior. Both came from hum-

Princess and the Pea (1835) brought

fellowship which allowed him to travel

ble homes, both left Odense to seek

him immortality.

and went to Dresden to steep himself

their fortune in Copenhagen.

in Wagner’s ideas. Nielsen composed In spite of his worldwide fame and

two operas, the dark drama Saul and

Hans Christian Andersen

extensive travels, Andersen’s personal

David and a comic opera, Maskarade

Andersen (1805-75) was born in

life was a lonely one. In 1840, he met

along with symphonies and choral

Odense, the son of a shoemaker and

and fell in love with the singer Jenny

works, such as Hymnus Amoris.

a washerwoman, and spent his child-

Lind, “The Swedish Nightingale”, but

hood in a small half-timbered house in

his love was unrequited – she always

Two of Denmark’s Famous Sons, writ-

Munkemøllestræde, now a museum.

called him “brother”. His fairy tale The

ten by Tor Kjolberg

Quite apart from his skill as a writer,

Nightingale was inspired by her. When

Andersen had a good singing voice

he was made a honorary citizen of

and was a gifted artist. At the age of

Odense in 1867, Andersen said it was

14 he set off to Copenhagen to attend

‘an honor greater than I had dreamt

the Royal Theatre School. The Thea-

of.”

Art & Music Special

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

The Cities and Towns of Norway There is an interesting book on the cities and towns of Norway, illustrated by 15 of Norway’s most popular illustrators. The book, published by Figenschou Forlag, depicts 15 cities and towns from illustrator Ole Fredrik Hvidsten’s Arendal to illustrator Kristina Bjerkek’s Ålesund. 18

hen it comes to

in-depth preparation, because the

Norway, the spot-

publisher Anita Figenschou wanted

light tends to fall on

to find talented illustrators who had

the beautiful fjords.

a relationship with the city they were

However, also rural Norway scores big

to illustrate. In addition, the cities and

and the book “Norske byer fra A til Å”

towns should represent the south,

(Norwegian cities and towns from A to

north, east and west of Norway.

Å) takes us to Drammen, Kongsberg, Fredrikstad, Tønsberg, Hamar, Kristian-

Drawing and interpreting the world we

sand, Lillehammer, Molde, Bodø and

live in is something illustrators all over

Tromsø in addition to the three big

the world enjoy doing, and something

ones Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim.

people love to take part in.

Making of the book demanded

Personally I would prefer that the book

presented more Norwegian cities,

The Cities and Towns of Norway, writ-

but I understand that it would have

ten by Tor Kjolberg

been difficult to implement. And I do not think that children, as the book is aimed at, think anything special about just that at all. They are probably most Art & Music Special

concerned with the pictures and the find-and-find game. And both live up to expectations. Great emphasis has been placed on the visual part of the book, since telling stories through both pictures and text has become a trend. And children have become an important readership. They simply require well-illustrated books if they are to arouse interest. The illustrators: Ole F. Hvidsten • Åshild Kanstad Johnsen • Bjørn Rune Lie • Magnus Lunde Engen • Haakon Lie • Cecilie Maurud Barstad • Ingunn Dybendal • Janne Christensen • Sandra Blikås • Kristoffer Kjølberg • Endre Skandfer • Anette Moi • Tora Marie Norberg • Robin & Rudi • Kristina Bjerkek

From Molde

From Kongsberg

The Cities and Towns of Norway, written by Tor Kjolberg

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Accomodation

An Extraordinary Swedish Spa Hotel Admire the stunning view of the magnificent Sea of Åland while you let yourself relax in a traditional spa at hotel Havsbaden in Grisslehamn. This is indeed an extraordinary Swedish spa hotel. 20

Accomodation

Swimmingpool at Havsbaden hotel

xquisitely located in

July 2018. New rooms and programs

per conference. There are 7

Grisslehamn with gupping

have created a place that’s rather a

conference rooms and 3 group rooms.

waves and splashing

destination than just a hotel.

The Roslagen is the largest, with space

plankton below lies this

for up to 120 people in charismatic

charming conference facility. Already

122 rooms still make the hotel an

warm interior with carpet and soft

200 years ago, Grisslehamn was

intimate facility. The bedrooms are

green walls. Kobben, Svartklubben and

a popular destination, and in 1903

furnished in turn of the century and

Klippan are suitable for 14-60 people

Havsbaden was built as a first version

welcome into a time capsule back in

and are also flexible for different seats,

of today’s facility.

time. All double rooms have views

all with their own style and color chart.

of waves and rocks while the single Related: Spa Well-Being – the Swedish

rooms offer 120 cm wide beds for a

In Loskäret and Albert Engström,

Way

comfortable rest.

smaller groups meet in a richly surrounded environment. Last (but

Recover from hectic everyday life

Related: Excellent Swedish Massage

Here you will achieve complete

not least) is Udkiken, a round facility located at the top of one of the towers,

relaxation and you will be able to rest

7 conference rooms and 3 group

where 8 people combine together with

and recover from hectic everyday life.

rooms

extensive views of the archipelago.

Located 110 km north of Stockholm,

The location could not be better for a

this spa hotel has got a new life. After

spa hotel. During the weekdays, the

Indulge in a chocolate massage

two years long renovation, Hotel

hotel mostly hosts conferences, and

The hotel is equipped with large

Havsbaden opened its doors again in

there’s room for up to 350 participants

panorama windows to fully benefit

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

from the fantastic view. Hotel

relax from their everyday routine.

Havsbaden is not a massive spa hotel,

There are many cozy options at Hotell

but has an intimate and personal vibe

Havsbaden.

and guests can benefit from the small size of the hotel and spa. One of the

Popular weekend-packages

specialties on the spa menu is the

“We offer a large range of weekend

chocolate massage, which is effective

packages. There’s one that we simply

for both body and mind.

call ‘Just Be’, that includes spa, a nice dinner, breakfast, a robe, and slippers.

Related: The New Swedish Yoga

This has become a popular package,” says Anton Lukeniuk, who is in charge

Enjoy plenty of fresh seafood

of marketing at the hotel and who’s

Food is something really special at

worked with developing the new

Havsbaden, very much influenced by

concept.

At Havsbaden you will be able to rest and recover from hectic everyday life

proximity to the sea. Guests can take delight in their evenings with plenty

Another popular activity that can

of fresh seafood locally sourced. A

be combined with a stay at Hotel

particular focus is in fact given to

Havsbaden is a trip to Åland which is

the use of local ingredients both for

just 4 ½ hours by boat. The spa hotel

freshness and environmental impact.

greets guests all year around with

In the dining room visitors will enjoy

special offerings every season.

fantastic dishes while admiring the view to the fishing harbor. Beaches

An Extraordinary Swedish Spa Hotel,

and cliffs are located close to the

written by Tor Kjolberg

From Gisslehamn

hotel, and make it ideal for those who love sunbathing. During the weekends, the hotel welcomes individuals who want to

A trip to Åland is just 4 ½ hours by boat, here M/S Eckerö

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Sports

The Norwegian Gold Rush in Beijing Winter Olympics Norwegian athletes could boast another rush of gold medals that topped all other nations in the Beijing Winter Olympics 2022. However, for the chef of missions, Tore Øvrebø, enjoying themselves and creating good relationships were more important than winning. Learn more about the Norwegian gold rush in Beijing Winter Olympics.

ool official Norwegian

claimed by veteran cross-country

winter sports outfit,

skier Therese Johaug (34), when she

Norwegian flags and

won the exhausting 30-kilometer race

the Norwegian anthem

over the weekend. Johaug had already

were really in the spotlight when

won gold in the opening 15K race and

Norwegians entered the medal

the 10K, but she lacked an individual

podiums 37 times during the two

Olympic gold medal and succeeded

week’s games, 16 of them gold. That’s

this time. According to the athlete this

an increase of 14 since the last record-

is her last Olympic games.

breaking Winter Olympics in South Korea.

Some critics claim that Norway should have claimed more gold in biathlon

Norway’s last gold medal before the 2022 winter games ended was claimed by veteran cross-country skier Therese Johaug (34). Photo: Screenshot from TV2

Norway finished a narrow second

and cross-country races, but Øvrebø

in the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics,

measures success in different terms.

but really won considering Russia’s

“The main objective for us is to make

spectacular cheating scandal.

the athletes have fun all the way through the Games,” he said when

Related: The Scandinavian Ski

Norway won the men’s cross-country

You might also like to read: Sweet

with Prema, partnering Olli Caldwell

Protection from Norway

and Ferrari Driver Academy member

in the 2021 season, Hauger raced with Prema, partnering Olli Caldwell and Ferrari Driver Academy member Arthur LeclercIn. Photo: formel1.no

FIA F3 Austria 2021. Photo: Wikipedia

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Attractions

150 km of Playground in Denmark Denmark’s Gudenå river, also called the River of Gods, is the longest river in Denmark and home to outdoor activities and historic market towns. It’s a 150 km of playground in Denmark.

nown as the River of Gods,

outdoor activities,” says the local

Gudenå is the longest river

tourist director and chairman of the

in Denmark, and traces of

Association of River Gudenaa. “It’s

settlements dating back

quite an unusual combination – we

to the Antiquity, can be found along

call it 150 km of playground.”

its banks. The river has served as a means of transport, a source of

Old market towns

power and an area for fishing – now

Viborg – Denmark’s former capital –

visitors come to visit historic cities and

is here alongside medieval Randers,

experience a wide range of outdoor

Silkeborg, lakeside Skanderborg

activities.

and Horsens, all with easy reach by air, road and rail. These old market

“We have old cities situated on the

towns offer stress-free shopping

edge of the river and wonderful

om pedestrian streets and in new Feature image (on top): From Horsens. Illustration by Vandkunsten Architects.

Attractions

From Skanderborg. Photo: Visit Skanderborg

shopping-centers, as well as a host of

anniversary of his birth was celebrated

cafés, bars, restaurants, places to stay

on 8 January 2015 with visitors from

and activities.

around the world.

Related: On Two Wheels in

Related: Biking the Danish East Coast

Scandinavia

Route

Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium

The star routes on foot or by bike

Silkeborg’s Aqua Aquarium & Wildlife

Viborg’s circular Star Routes are a

Park is home to Europe’s largest

great way to experience the outdoor –

freshwater aquarium and is ideal for

on foot or by bike. Take a tourist boat

families, or get locked in Horsen’s

in Randers or the Lakelands, or canoe

Prison Museum. It’s the site of one of

down the river, stopping at campsites

Denmark’s most audacious escapes,

or old inns for the night. And fishing

when burglar Car August Lorentzen

permits are easily available online or

used a spoon to dig a 20m tunnel. It

from local tourist offices. If you want

took him nine months, and when he

to drop a line in the water – up to 20

got out on Christmas Eve 1949, he left

species have been recorded along its

a note behind: “Where there’s a will,

length, including salmon, trout, perch

there’s a way.” He was recaptured one

and zander.

week later. 150 km of Playground in Denmark,

Known as the River of Gods, Gudenå is the longest river in Denmark. Photo: Store norske leksikon

Graceland Randers

supported by the European Agriculture

And don’t miss Graceland Randers – a

Fund for Rural Development, investing

museum, shop and diner dedicated

in rural areas and central Jutland.

to Elvis Presley. Inspired by the King’s home in Memphis. The 80th

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

The First UNESCO Global Geopark in Denmark Thanks to its unique geological formation, rich cultural history and extraordinary agricultural qualities, Odsherred became Denmark’s first Geopark. Located 80 km north of Copenhagen, the region boasts kilometers of pristine sand beaches and is one of Denmark’s most popular holiday destinations. Learn more about the first UNESCO global geopark in Denmark

Feature image (on top) Photo: Visit Odsherred

Attractions

his supreme geological

of a glacial landform, only equaled by

destination with more than 26,000

heritage is constituted mainly

very few other places in Europe. When

summer residences, thus having the

by glacial structures formed

the established society of geologists,

summer population arising to more

during the latter part of the

not only in Denmark, but also abroad,

than 100,000 inhabitants.

Weichselian approx. 17,000 years ago.

at the beginning of the 20th century,

The most dominant landscape feature

turned their attention on glacial

The cultural history, arts, and the local

is the presence of three very distinct

dynamics and ice age geology, they

produce, are all closely intertwined

end moraines called the Odsherred

therefore also focused on Odsherred’s

with the landscape and geology,

Arches, which form the core of the

glacial landscape. Since the end

thereby becoming the four topics of

Geopark.

of the last ice age, postglacial and

Odsherred UNESCO Global Geopark.

coastal processes have shown just as

As a part of the strong and widespread

In 2014 Odsherred successfully

important in forming of the landscape,

community involvement, local

achieved that status to become the

today still causing a constant change.

stakeholders, business, the tourism

first geopark in Denmark, 17,000 years

agency, the national nature agency

after the last glaciers had withdrawn

The hunebeds in the area are also

and associations help to support the

from the Danish shores. However, the

members of the international network

socioeconomic development.

tracks they left are still evident and

of Megalithic Routes. The UNESCO

nowhere more so than in the beautiful,

Global Geopark Network has

Last, but not least, Odsherred has

hilly landscape of Odsherred. When

recognized 90 Geoparks based on

become home to one of Denmark’s

kids at Danish schools learn about

the past and present influence of the

best gourmet restaurants, Dragsholm

the landscape formation, they look at

areas’ geological attributes.

Slot. Expect to be taken on a

the maps of an area containing some

gastronomic journey thanks to around

of the most recognizable coastline

The area of the Odsherred UNESCO

20 carefully crafted, innovative and

moraines seen anywhere. However,

Global Geopark is equivalent to that

intensely flavored dishes created

becoming a Geopark is not just

of Odsherred Municipality, populating

using local, foraged, seasonal or

about geology, it’s also about how

33,000 inhabitants. Since the

preserved produce. This atmospheric

the landscape has influenced the

termination of the last glacial period,

cellar restaurant is set in the former

development of the region.

humans have been making their mark

kitchens of an impressive 800-year-

on Odsherred and the landscape

old castle.

Together with the glacial depressions

has attracted people from far and

and meltwater plains, they represent a

wide since the early 18th century.

The First UNESCO global Geopark in

classical geomorphological example

Today the area is an attractive holiday

Denmark, written by Tor Kjolberg

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Business

Scandinavian E-Commerce Trends 2022

Denmark, Norway and Sweden’s e-commerce markets are growing exponentially. These are thus countries of high interest for e-retailers to expand to. Scandinavia is also frontrunner, leading the way for the rest of Europe in technology and sustainability. Learn more about Scandinavian e-commerce trends 2022.

uring the Covid-19

definitely the trend that should be at

We are currently experiencing

pandemic, many

the very beginning of this article. The

business moving online. It may be

companies were forced to

strength of smartphones and tablets is

thanks to the world pandemic

move their business online.

on rising and so is the popularity of

situation, it may be due to

Some of them found the juicy fruits of

shopping via phones. More than half

technological developments or it may

e-commerce and kept focusing on

of all purchases will be done via

be just a natural process of business

online, even though the pandemic

phones! Do you have your web-shop

evolution. If we take a look at the

restrictions ended and it allowed them

optimized for AMP? If not, we would

numbers, we see that the growth of

to get back to the offline.

highly recommend you to put it as

the e-commerce industry is

priority number one. M-commerce is

continuously accelerating.

M-commerce M-commerce, or mobile commerce, is

all about speed The Scandinavian countries have been Feature image (on top) © Global Banking & Finance Review

very early adopters of the internet and

currencies, and practices, local

have a highly developed infrastructure.

payment, and delivery options must

Online shopping is extremely popular

be considered (PostNord, 2016).

in the region, yet research reveals that there is still growth potential here.

PostNord and Direct Link have published the E-commerce in Europe 2021 report, where many similarities in

Scandinavian e-commerce market can

terms of ecommerce consumer

be challenging with several obstacles.

behavior and preferences between the

Scandinavian consumers are not

Nordic countries are seen. The four

easily attracted to foreign websites.

Nordic countries (including Finland)

The reasons may be foreign language

have the highest proportion of

or reluctancy to shopping at foreign

consumers shopping from abroad

web-shops.

when compared to all twelve markets

Business

The process of entering the

studied in the report. Another similarity Related: The Scandinavian

is that they all have German fashion

e-Commerce Market

online retailer Zalando as number one when it comes to marketplaces they

Native language is important

make purchases from.

Even if Scandinavians in general speak English almost fluently,

Payment methods

translating a website into the native

In Scandinavia, the most common

language of the country directly

payment methods e-retailers provide

contributes to local success. This

are credit card and debit card of local

mainly has to do with consumer trust

bank transactions via the web-shop.

in a website. If it is in their own

Online banking is also a popular

language, the look and feel are

payment method, especially in

familiar, and the consumer will be

Sweden (almost 70% of most visited

more inclined to trust the e-retailer and

web-shop provide this option). The

thus place an order. Alongside

tool After Pay is provided by more

translation and local customer service,

than 50% of e-retailers in Norway and

Even if Scandinavians in general speak English almost fluently, translating a website into the native language of the country directly contributes to local success. Illustration by British Council

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Sweden. Not offering the preferred

delivery is proven to be a popular

payment methods of a consumer

delivery option in Denmark. Machine

base is known to be a reason not to

pickup points, automated parcel

shop at foreign web-shops (Statista,

lockers where customers can collect

2021), and is thus very important in an

and send packages are an up-and-

e-retailer’s localization strategy per

coming delivery option in the

country.

Scandinavian countries. Although this option is not provided by e-retailers in

The Scandinavian countries have quite

Norway and Sweden, 20-25% of

a lot of strong domestic brands, and

e-retailers in Denmark offer machine

large marketplaces established

pickup points. Around 60-80% of

themselves later in Scandinavia than

Scandinavian e-retailers offer returns

in many other European countries.

via postal service, which is the most

Over the past several years, we’ve

common return option. Returning via a

seen many major global brands go

local return point is almost never used

completely global in some parts of the

by Scandinavian e-retailers.

world. Disney, one of the world’s biggest brand names, recently closed

Related: Strong e-Commerce Growth

all their in-person stores in north

for IKEA

America, and many others have done the same. In fact, in 2019, for the first

Privacy and security policy

time, Amazon overtook brick and

Offering a general policy, privacy

mortar retailers in several key areas.

policy, and security policy is important in maintaining consumer trust. Almost

Advertising, posting to social media and other kinds of digital marketing are a good way to be seen. Illustration by EBU

Consumers want updates on logistics

all the e-retailers in every

and the opportunity to have choices.

Scandinavian country notify web

The ability to choose the method and

visitors about their policies. More than

place of a return, such as a pickup

90% of the e-retailers of Denmark,

point or collecting from home, can

Norway and Sweden are offering

positively impact consumers’ purchase

information about privacy, security,

intentions (PostNord, 2019).

and general terms and conditions.

The most provided delivery option is

As of 1 July 2021, a new VAT rule for

home delivery followed by delivery at

international e-commerce is applied

a pickup point. Furthermore, evening

throughout the EU Single Market. This

Social media

under your customers’ skin, you have

from non-EU countries are taxed with

Advertising, posting to social media

to let them see under yours first.

VAT. Although Norway is not a

and other kinds of digital marketing

member of the European Union, the

are a good way to be seen. But once

Video Content

country is part of the European Free

someone gives you permission to

This is a little bit of a conundrum for

Trade Association and member of the

access their email inbox with your

digital marketers because search

European Economic Area. Norway

message, you’ve got a real relationship

engines sill use text-based content for

must therefore comply with the same

going.

their algorithms. Consumers, however,

terms as the other European Union

Business

rule states that all imported goods

love video content more than ever

members and is an equal partner in

Email marketing has changed a lot

before. Product demos, clever “hacks”

the internal market.

over the years. These days, it’s all

and even blooper reels are some of

about them – not what you want to

the most viewed, shared, and liked

To maintain the trust of the consumer

say. But for brands that can find the

content on the internet right now. That

and their data, a security trust mark

right words, offers and experiences to

shows no sign of slowing either.

can be implemented on the website,

deliver by email, the sky is still the limit

preferably shown on the homepage of

for this digital marketing strategy.

the website.

Cookies Are cookies a trend? No, cookies

Membership programs

themselves are not a trend, just a

Sustainability

Many brands, in the past, have used

necessary part of the user’s data

Sustainability has played a big role in

loyalty programs to track their

processing. But the way you offer

the last few years and it has also

customer’s spending and shopping

options to users about which data you

entered the e-commerce industry. Due

habits. But when you’re operating in

can process, which not and how you

to packaging for delivering products to

an e-commerce world, it makes sense

will do that is a key to building trust

the customer, there is more waste

to take it to the next level. Membership

with the customer. Show users respect

produced. Consumers are more

programs not only track and reward

for their privacy and allow them to feel

interested in products whose

loyalty but are the ultimate kind of

comfortable on your web-shop.

production, packaging and delivery

personalized marketing. Whether it’s

Understanding this method will help

process is sustainable. According to

member only discounts or free

businesses build a brand’s good

the European E-commerce report

shipping, member perks are a big

reputation and potentially gain

2021 for all countries in the EU,

draw. Just ask Amazon. Prime has

long-term relationships with

customers are more likely to buy

been one of their biggest success

customers.

products that are made and delivered

stories.

in a sustainable way. The difference

Sweden is the largest e-commerce

between countries is at the point

Storytelling

market in Scandinavia. Sweden is also

where the customers have to pay extra

Most people don’t watch TV anymore

the third largest country in the EU by

for that. Western and northern

though. Those that do use streaming

area, has the eight highest per capita

countries are willing to pay extra for

or their PVR, so old fashioned

income in the world, and spends a little

sustainable products while other

advertising tends to fall flat.

under 9 billion Euros online every year.

countries with lower GDP per capita

Quite a figure for a country with a

are not. Anyways, the number of

People don’t want to be sold to

customers who are supporting

anymore anyway. They want to

sustainability in e-commerce is

connect and engage with brands that

The reason is evident: Swedes have a

increasing year by year in every

they relate to. They want to know who

lot of disposable income, and they like

country. We can’t say if sustainability

you are, what matters to you, and why

to spend it online. Which makes it

will be the trend of 2022, but it

they should care.

perfect for ecommerce businesses.

e-commerce and at the same time it is

Which is why brands that tell real,

Most people in Sweden prefer to buy

an attractive topic for a huge part of

genuine stories are the ones that are

from large marketplaces. It’s the

consumers.

rising to the top. It’s not enough to be

convenience of going to one site, and

a soulless corporation with a big ad

being able to buy clothes, electronics,

budget anymore. If you want to get

health products and pet stuff in the

population of only 10 million people.

certainly has its importance in

Related: E-Commerce in Scandinava

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

same place, and that’s not going to

offerings, more people are buying

change soon! So, while you can have a

from stores on social platforms too.

standalone store, you should consider selling on sites like Selected

Sweden is different from Norway and

Scandinavian Web-shops (launched

Denmark, by not having Clothing and

by Daily Scandinavian soon).

footwear as the number one category.

When Google introduced

As shoppers around the world get

“Mobilegeddon” in 2015, some people

more used to shopping online as the

were surprised that they chose to

norm rather than the exception, they’re

penalize websites that weren’t mobile

starting to expect the same or similar

friendly. However, since more than half

experiences everywhere.

of all global web traffic comes from mobile devices and over 60% of

Sweden is very concerned about

global online purchases in 2020 were

omnichannel marketing. It means that

made on a mobile device. Source:

if you sell online, in a real-world store

statista.com

and from an app, all of the customer experiences should be similar. Many

We’re not only shopping on different

ecommerce tech providers are already

devices either. With social networks

on the omnichannel bandwagon, and

hopping on the bandwagon and

with clever tools like geolocated push

creating their own ecommerce

notifications, you can integrate some

Real, genuine stories are the ones that are rising to the top. Illustration by The Writing Cooperative

the European Free Trade Association,

2019). In Norway, the most popular

a real-world experience – and vice

but isn’t part of the European Union,

product category is formed by clothing

versa.

although the country was twice

and shoes (36 percent). This is

invited. Norway also doesn’t have the

followed by consumer electronics and

There are many people in Sweden

euro, instead it uses the Norwegian

media (both 25 percent), sports &

who deride so called influencers.

krone as its currency.

leisure (14 percent), beauty & health,

Some say that it’s not a real career.

furniture, and groceries (all at 10

Others make snide comments about

Norway has a very high share of

doing things “for the gram.” But there’s

people being online. According to data

no denying that influencers have a

from Statistics Norway, the share of

Some of the most popular and biggest

huge, captive audience. Which makes

population aged 16 to 79 that used the

online stores in Norway are consumer

them one of the best marketing

internet during the last months was at

electronics store Komplett.no,

channels out there.

98 percent in 2019. The same study

consumer electronics retailer Elkjøp

shows that 31 percent used the

(known as Elgiganten otuside Norway)

Not only do influencers usually speak

internet for selling goods or services,

and online grocery store Kolonial.no.

directly to a defined niche, but their

while 41 percent bought films or music

whole brand is about their lifestyle. So,

online, 45 percent ordered clothes and

Scandinavian e-commerce trends

if your product fits that lifestyle, and

sports goods and 61 percent bought

2022 – to sum up

your target market fits their niche,

travel or holiday accommodation

Localization is one of the most

influencers are a match made in

online.

important factors to be successful in

marketing heaven.

percent) and baby & toys (6 percent).

global e-commerce. Despite In 2018, the estimated amount per

Scandinavian countries often being

Denmark is the southernmost of the

person spent online in an average

lumped together under one umbrella,

Scandinavian countries. GDP of this

month was 210 euros. This

localization is crucial if one wants to

country in 2019 reached US$348.08

corresponds to 2,522 euros per year.

be truly successful in these

billion. It was the lowest score among

And according to data from Statistics

e-commerce markets. These

all Scandinavian countries, but it

Norway, 92 percent of the population

differences may seem slight, but they

doesn’t mean that its GDP is critically

aged 16-79 uses a smartphone.

are important to take into

low. Denmark is placed at the 37th (globally) in the case of nominal GDP.

Business

of your digital marketing methods into

consideration in a global e-commerce In Norway the top three are Clothing

strategy.

and footwear, Cosmetics and skin care In 2021, Denmark was number one in

and Pharmacy products.

DESI, the European Commission´s

Scandinavian e-commerce trends 2022, compiled by Tor Kjolberg

Digital and Society Index. This means

When it comes to paying for the

that the country is considered as the

products ordered online, many

most mature digital economy in the

consumers in Norway like to pay with

EU.

credit card. This method is more popular than VIPPS, invoice or PayPal.

When it comes to ecommerce,

Card payments account for 52 percent

Denmark is doing quite well. Last year

of preferred payment methods, with

its ecommerce market was placed as

VIPPS following at 21 percent.

the 29th largest ecommerce in the world.

More Norwegian women than men are fond of invoice, but more men than

In Denmark the top three categories

women are keen on PayPal and

are Clothing and footwear, Home

ApplePay.

electronics and Cosmetics and skin care.

Based on data from J. P. Morgan, e-commerce in Norway was worth

Norway was a founding member of

EUR13.8 billion (US$15.8 billion in

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

The Danish Energy Island Three million Danish households will benefit of green electricity from offshore wind turbines all the way inside the engine room once the two islands become a reality. The Danish Energy Agency is leading the project. Read more about the Danish Energy Island.

project to build a giant

wind, aimed at creating a green

make it three times that size. Denmark

island providing enough

energy supply for Danish and foreign

pioneered its offshore wind farming

energy for three million

electricity grids. Operating as green

thirty years ago and is now set to

households has been

power plants at sea, the islands are

expand the repertoire of renewables

given the green light by Denmark’s

expected to play a major role in the

again. By 2030, an artificial landmass

politicians. In the middle of the North

phasing-out of fossil fuel energy

far off the country’s western coast will

Sea, the country plans to erect a power

sources in Denmark and Europe.

channel green electricity from a vast

plant that will distribute wind energy far and wide across Europe.

network of wind turbines and transmit Related: Danish Company is Storing

it to the mainland. It will serve as a hub

Renewable Energy in Stones

for 200 giant offshore wind turbines.

The energy islands mark the

The world’s first energy island will

The key to halting the rise of global

beginning of a new era for the

be as big as 18 football pitches

temperatures

generation of energy from offshore

(120,000sq m), but there are hopes to

As the window for preventing

The beginning of a new era

Feature image (on top): Photo bt the Danish Energy Agency

catastrophic climate change shrinks,

the height of the Statue of Liberty.

large-scale projects of this kind are key to halting the rise of global

Related: Domestic Fossil Fuel Free

temperatures. With an eventual

Flights in Denmark

capacity of 10 gigawatts, the site Long history of exploiting the strong

the Danish population’s energy

winds from the sea

needs, leaving plenty for export to

Denmark has a long history of

neighboring countries. “This is truly a

exploiting the strong winds from

great moment for Denmark and for

the sea to produce electricity. The

the global green transition,” Energy

country constructed the world’s first

Minister Dan Jørgensen said in a

offshore wind farm in 1991, and in

press release. “The island will make a

the climate agreement of 22 June

big contribution to the realization of

2020, the Danish legislature decided

the enormous potential for European

to build on that legacy with the

offshore wind.”

construction of two energy islands.

Business

will produce one and a half times

In light of the decision reached by Related: New Wind Energy Record Set

Danish politicians, the Danish Energy

By Denmark

Agency is now drawing on domestic expert knowledge as well as extensive

The energy island in the Baltic Sea will

experience and skills in this field with a

be Bornholm, where electrotechnical

view to taking a historic and ambitious

facilities on the island will serve as a

step on the road to phasing out fossil

hub for offshore wind farms off the

fuels.

coast supplying 2 GW of energy. It is the biggest construction project in

Which other neighboring countries

Danish history, costing an estimated

that might benefit from the Energy

210bn kroner (£24bn; €28bn: $34bn).

Island have not yet been detailed. However, Prof Jacob Ostergaard of

Turbines nearly three times the height

the Technical University of Denmark

of the Statue of Liberty

told the BBC that the UK could

The project is only the latest step in

benefit, as well as Germany or the

Denmark’s push for sustainability.

Netherlands. Green hydrogen would

Last year the nation pledged to

also be provided for use in shipping,

reduce greenhouse gas emissions by

aviation, industry and heavy transport.

70 percent from 1990 levels and to

Energy Minister Dan Jorgensen said

achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. In

the country was simply “changing the

late 2020 it also ended oil and gas

map”.

exploration in its North Sea territory. Situated 80km (50 miles) out to sea,

Danish Energy Agency playing a key

the artificial island would be at least

role

half-owned by the state and partly

The island will come into being some

by the private sector. But don’t come

50 miles out to sea from the Jutland

looking for timeshares. It’s essentially

Peninsula, but its precise location is

just a hub, a centralized power plant,

yet to be determined. In November,

surrounded by hundreds of windmills.

Energinet — the Danish company

The turbines are far taller than existing

that will construct and operate the

ones – 850 feet, or nearly three times

electrical transmission system

Prof Jacob Ostergaard of the Technical University of Denmark told the BBC that the UK could benefit, as well as Germany or the Netherlands. Photo: YouTube

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Situated 80km (50 miles) out to sea, the artificial island would be at least half-owned by the state but partly by the private sector. Illustration: Danish Energy Agency

“This is truly a great moment for Denmark and for the global green transition,” says Energy Minister Dan Jørgensen.

Business

connecting the island to adjacent

concrete box filled with rocks; a

countries — began assessing a swath

floating platform tethered in place; or a

of the North Sea known as Dogger

pile of sand.

Bank, a vast sandbank that offers the combined advantage of shallow

While there is some secrecy over

water depths and optimal wind

where the new island will be built,

conditions. The government expects

it is known that it will be 80km into

to select a specific site by spring, and

the North Sea. Danish TV said that

construction is slated for 2026, leaving

a Danish Energy Agency study last

time to study the project’s impact on

year had marked two areas west of

the seabed and marine life.

the Jutland coast and that both had

The energy islands mark the beginning of a new era for the generation of energy from offshore wind, aimed at creating a green energy supply for Danish and foreign electricity grids. Photo: Danish Energy Agency

a relatively shallow sea depth of 26The Danish Energy Agency is playing

27m.

a key role in leading the project that will transform the two energy islands

The innovators behind the energy

from a vision to reality. The islands are

islands hope their project is only

a pioneer project that will necessitate

the beginning. As offshore wind

the deployment of existing knowledge

technology matures, it could tap into

into an entirely new context. Working

tremendous unrealized potential.

together with well-established actors

Dogger Bank alone has been

in the industry and the highest level of

estimated to harbor as much as 110

expertise in the field, the goal is to find

gigawatts of wind energy capacity

the best solutions to the aspects of the

— more than 10 times Denmark’s

project that remain unsolved.

proposed generation for the area. And if this experiment succeeds, the

Some sexrecy over where the new

model it tests in the North and Baltic

island will be built

seas could soon be imitated by coastal

The plan is for the island to grow

nations around the world, wherever the

from an initial 120,000 sq m in size

wind blows.

to 460,000 sq m. The design is still uncertain, too. It could take one of

The Danish Energy Island, written by

several forms: a caisson, or massive

Tor Kjolberg

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Hydrogen Storage Facility in Sweden Has Reached Halfway Point in Construction A rock cavern for green hydrogen storage in Luleå, northern Sweden, is in construction and Vattenfall Media Relations announces that the hydrogen storage facility in Sweden has reached halfway point in construction.

R 42

ight now the steel lining

will play a very important role in the

Construction works started in May

is being installed inside

overall value chain for fossil-free iron

2021

Svartöberget. The storage

and steel production. Production can

Construction works started in May

facility, which will be an

take place without a storage facility,

2021. Vattenfall says that several parts

important part of the value chain for

but storage provides the opportunity

of the pilot plant have been installed.

fossil-free iron and steel production,

to vary the demand for electricity

This includes the pipelines to transport

is planned to be in operation by the

and ensure stable production. By

hydrogen gas to the storage facility,

summer and runs tests there until

producing hydrogen gas when there

rock caverns and connecting tunnels,

2024.

is a lot of electricity, for example when

a ventilation shaft and the compressor

there is a lot of wind, and using stored

that will pressurize the gas for storage.

The initiative was launched in 2016

hydrogen gas when the electricity

The initiative was launched in 2016

system is under strain, will ensure

and the hydrogen storage facility

production.

Related: The Danish Energy Island

HYBRIT wetgas storage, sketch. Illustration: Vannenfall AB

Business

Construction of the 100-cubic-meter

Related: World’s First Fossil-Free Steel

(3,531 cu ft) rock cavern storage facility

From Sweden

30 meters below ground is done by Vattenfall AB in collaboration

The cavern is being built via the

with Swedish steel company SSAB

so-called lined rock cavern (LRC)

AB (STO:SSAB-A), iron ore miner

approach, which involves covering

Luossavaara-Kiirunavaara AB (LKAB).

the walls of the cavern with a selected

The three owners invested around

matter. The technology for storing

SEK 200 million (USD 21.4m/EUR

gas in a lined rock cavern (LRC) is well

18.9m) in three equal parts, with the

proven and has been used in southern

Swedish Energy Agency contributing

Sweden for about 20 years for storing

just over SEK 52 million towards the

natural gas. However, the technology

hydrogen storage construction.

is now taking another step forward as it’s being developed for the first time

Related: The Norwegian Electric

with hydrogen gas on a large pilot

Vehicle Success Story

scale.

Impressing technology

The first in the world

“The various parts of the plant are

“What’s so fantastic about HYBRIT is

now mostly in place,” the consortium

just how many different innovative

said in a statement. “Rock caverns

parts the initiative consists of. The

and connecting tunnels have been

hydrogen storage facility is a good

constructed in the rock and a

example of how we’re testing and

ventilation shaft has been drilled from

using innovations to achieve the goal

the top of the rock down to the upper

of a completely fossil-free value chain,

part of the rock cavern.”

the first in the world,” says Martin Pei,

Mikael Nordlander, Development Manager for Vattenfall’s industrial partnerships

Technical Director at SSAB. “The hydrogen storage facility has a stabilizing effect on the electrical

The finished plant will contain

system. It reduces the risk of the

hydrogen gas pressurized up to 250

system overloading. We want to

bar.

develop HYBRIT technology so that it is in line with the future electricity

Hydrogen Storage Facility in Sweden

system with more weather-dependent

is Has Reached Halfway Point in

electricity generation,” says Mikael

Construction, written by Tor Kjolberg

Martin Pei, Technical Director at SSAB.

Nordlander, Development Manager for Vattenfall’s industrial partnerships.

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Architecture

Awarded Multi-Purpose Sports Hall in Copenhagen A sports hall in Copenhagen is shaped like an organic amoeba. Falkonergården Gymnesium was awarded «Store Arne» for its beautiful architectural concept, where new and old supporting each other’s narrative. Learn more about the awarded multipurpose sports hall in Copenhagen.

Feature image (on top): Photo by Eumies Award

n 2010, Falkonergården

Falkonergårdens Gymnasium is that

Seen from the air, the new sports hall

Gymnasium at Fredriksberg in

it does not clearly conform to what

is like an organic amoeba between the

Copenhagen announced an

was typical of its time, but rather draws

rectangular brick buildings. It is located

more towards Danish and Nordic

on the west side of the schoolyard,

architecture from the 1930s,” said

where there used to be a sunken

that communicated with the buildings

architect Høgni T. Hansen.

garden.

1955. As many as 103 proposals were

Related: 3 Residential Danish Sites For

Junckers sports floor in the wood

submitted, and the three architects

Architecture Fans

species Oak Champion, 2-strip was

of architect Thomas Havning from

Tage Lyneborg, Høgni T. Hansen and

chosen for this beautiful project,

Carl Th. Lyneborg (JAJA Architects)

From the large programmatic grip

installed on a DuoBAT 120+ and

were the winning team “for its

and down to the smallest detail, it

surface treated with Silk Matt laquer.

respectful relation to the existing

is a convincing and complete piece

Linemarkings are painted with

buildings through its geometric

of architecture that bears witness

Junckers HP SportsLine.

formal language”. The jury explained,

to the architectural tenacity and

“The shape appears logic with an

thoughtfulness. The use of materials

Related: The Danish Architect Who

interpretation of the buildings’ existing

and thoughtful plan will give

Redesigns Supremely Difficult Sites

virtues. And the objective of capturing

Falkonergården’s students joy for

the warm glow of the surrounding

many years to come.

buildings with new materials seems very convincing.” Related: Exciting Danish Architecture

Architecture

open architecture competition for

submitting ideas for a new sports hall

The extends allowed the fragmented buildings to function as one entity

For the extension, JAJA Architects

where the interior space is extended

proposed an infill project between

to a courtyard condition, thus creating

the campus’ two existing gym

a continuous space where gym and

buildings. This infill is conceived as

schoolyard, building and landscape

The new building met the existing

a contemporary interpretation of the

merge together.

buildings’ stock values respectfully,

existing building mass that connects

but at the same time it was modern,

and transforms the detached gyms

Awarded Multi-Purpose Sports Hall in

functional and empathetic.

into one coherent functional facility.

Copenhagen, written by Tor Kjolberg

“What is special about

Junckers sports floor in the wood species Oak Champion, 2-strip was chosen for this beautiful project, installed on a DuoBAT 120+ and surface treated with Silk Matt laquer.

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Society

Why There Is No Plan B for Sweden’s Bee Population

rofessor van der Sluijs’ concern is justified; the European Parliament estimates that one in ten bee

and butterfly species is in danger of extinction in Europe, and the problem is echoed around the world too. As the professor explains, this has potentially disastrous effects on the global food supply chain and existing ecosystems, and is one of the reasons saving the bees has to be such a priority within Sweden’s sustainability efforts. So what is currently being done today, and what more can be achieved? A small creature of huge importance It is estimated that 80% of all flowering plants depend on pollinating insects such as bees, which means that roughly one third of global food

In a recent editorial piece on the decline of pollinators, University of Bergen professor van der Sluijs highlights the dramatic consequences of declining bee populations, urging researchers to pool their knowledge to help stop – and potentially reverse – this situation. Learn more about why there is no Plan B for Sweden’s bee population. 46

production (approximately $19bn worth according to US government data) depends on these tiny workers. Bees are also vital members of ecosystems, helping to encourage biodiversity. Different bees play different roles, but all are important to their environments, and to humans. In Scandinavia, the

Society

It is estimated that 80% of all flowering plants depend on pollinating insects such as bees. Photo: Ecowatch

Nordic brown bee is a local species

grown in popularity in Sweden, and

Why There Is No Plan B for Sweden’s

which is particularly under threat from

indeed around the world. If you’re not

Bee Population – Conclusion

other species of bee, and as such

quite ready to embark on beekeeping

Given the huge significance of this tiny

there has been a commitment to

yourself, you could support social

creature, it’s no wonder that countries

protect this variety as far as possible.

enterprises such as Bee Urban, or

around the world are waking up to

Swedish bee sanctuaries such as

its plight. Through schemes such as

Related: How To Use A Historical

The Bee Zone. You can also help by

encouraging the sharing of research,

Scandinavian Favorite: Honey

rejecting pesticides, building your

raising public awareness, and inviting

own insect house, planting flowers

young and old to get involved directly

Sweden’s mission to save the bees

and plants which attract bees – dwarf

with bug houses and bee-friendly

In addition to programs to save the

elderberry, alliums and Jerusalem sage

planting, Sweden is trying hard to

Nordic brown bee, Sweden is part of

are all popular varieties – and leaving

reverse the decline of its bees. Time

the EU Pollinators Initiative, which

out shallow dishes of water in warmer

will tell whether they can achieve the

aims to monitor bee populations,

weather.

sweet success they hope for.

research the factors causing their decline, and develop solutions. In Northern Sweden, the Umea University has launched an effort to bring together researchers and educators

Why There Is No Plan B for Sweden’s

to raise public awareness of the plight

Bee Population, written exclusively by

of bees and other pollinators, and in

Karoline Gore. Karoline is a freelance

national parks such as Store Mosse,

writer from Stoke on Trent in the UK who

adults and children alike are invited

left the corporate grind when she started

to help build insect hotels and learn

a family and has never looked back.

more about the creatures. Schools are

She enjoys contributing to a range of

also working hard to educate the next

online publications on the topics that are

generation about the importance of

important to her.

caring for bees. Related: Best-selling Norwegian Author Maja Lunde How individuals can help In recent years, home beekeeping has

Recent articles written by Karoline Gore you might like to read: Labradorite From Norway: A True Scandinavian Treasure 3 Reasons Why Stockholm is the Perfect Place to Pursue Postgraduate Studies Considering a New Start? Why Scandinavia Could Be the Perfect Choice

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Food

Why You Need to Try Swedish Surströmming

Surströmming is a traditional Swedish dish consisting of fermented and lightlysalted sea herring. Dating all the way back to the 16th century, this dish has been a true staple in Swedish cuisine. Find out why you need to try Swedish surströmming

ven though nowadays there’s

the fact that a freshly-opened can of

That being said, let’s see how

a plethora of fermented fish

Surströmming is known to be one of

Surströmming is being produced and

products that are widely used

the most putrid-smelling foods in the

explore some of the most common

in dishes all around the world,

world.

ways it’s being served.

convincing to try out Surströmming.

Related: A Swedish Delicacy Called

The production process

One of the most obvious reasons is

Surströmming

In the past, the meat of a sea herring

many people still need some hard

Feature image (on top): Screenshot from VGTV

bread called tunnbröd, with potatoes

brine, where it was left until the

and red onions. The potatoes are

fermentation process was complete.

usually either mashed or sliced

Nowadays, the fish is first submerged

and the onions are finely diced.

in a strong brine solution to draw out

Sometimes, Swedes add Västerbotten

the blood, and then stored in barrels

cheese to this dish to help balance out

and marinated with a weaker brine

the strong flavor of Surströmming.

to allow fermentation. Although a

Related: The Stinky Swedish Fish

Food

was originally marinated in a weak

bit foul-smelling, this dish is entirely safe to eat as the fermentation

If you’re opening a can of

process is closely monitored. With

Surströmming on your own for the

the help of modern technology and

very first time, you do need to be

products such as SBT instruments,

careful. Due to the fermentation

manufacturers can stay on top of the

process that’s still happening inside,

whole process more easily, ensuring

the built-up gas can cause the brine

that the necessary fermentation is

to spray out of the can. That’s why

not cut short. When the time is right,

it’s commonly advised to open a can

Surströmming is being canned and

of Surströmming at an upward angle

marketed in shops.

or even submerge it in the bucket of water, puncture the can and only then

Related: Sweden’s Disgusting Food

proceed to open it.

Although a bit foul-smelling, this dish is entirely safe to eat as the fermentation process is closely monitored. Photo by Paul Einerhand / Unsplash

Museum So, if you’re ever visiting Sweden Preparation and serving

during the Surströmming season,

In Sweden, every third Thursday of

make sure you try out this delicious

August is known as “Surströmming

dish. Even though it may not sound

day”, which marks the so-called

supper-appealing at the first glance,

Surströmming season. The season

we promise you that you won’t regret

usually lasts until early September, so

giving it a shot.

this part of the year is the best time to try out this dish.

Why You Need to Try Swedish Surströmming, is a promotional article

Surströmming is most commonly

from SBT instruments

served on a piece of thin buttered

In Sweden, every third Thursday of August is known as “Surströmming day”

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

History

Norwegian-Built Polar Ship Found After Over 100 Years Under Ice 50

History

More than 100 years after Norwegian-built Endurance was crushed by ice in Antarctic, scientists have found and filmed the ship from Ernest Shackleton’s expedition – 3000 meters below the polar ice. Read the full story on Norwegian-built polar ship found after over 100 years under ice.

xplorers and researchers,

3008 meters, about six kilometers

battling freezing

from where it was crushed by sea-ice

temperatures, have located

on a November day in 1915, forcing

Endurance that sank in the

Shackletton and his crew to make an

Antarctic in 1915 to the bottom of the

astonishing escape on foot and in

Weddell Sea, east of the Antarctic

small boats. Everyone who had been

Peninsula

with Endurance southwards survived the expedition.

Found at a depth of 3008 meters «We are overwhelmed by the luck

Found after two weeks’ search

we have had who have found and

Marine archaeologists and technicians

could take photos of Endurance. This

had been searching for more than

is the most beautiful wooden wreck

two weeks using a South African

I have ever seen. It stands proudly

icebreaker, Agulhas II, equipped with

on the bottom, intact and incredibly

remotely operated submersibles in

well preserved. You can even read

a 150squaremie area around where

the name of the stern,» says Mensun

the ship went down. The project to

Bound, who has been responsible for

find the lost ship was mounted by

the search for the Antarctic explorer

the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust

Sir Ernest Shackleton’s polar ship

(FMHT).

which was crushed in pack ice and sank 106 years ago.

Even though it has been sitting in 3km (10,000ft) of water for over a century,

Related: The Voyages of a Modern

144-foot, three-masted wooden

Viking

Endurance does not appear to have been damaged by anemones, fungi

The ship was found at a depth of

and other organisms that have taken

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

hold on board after the shipwreck. The

British explorer had been to Antarctica

wreck itself is a designated monument

several times and was the one who

under the international Antarctic Treaty

had been farthest south before

and must not be disturbed in any way.

Amundsen. In 1909, Shackleton and

No physical artefacts have therefore

the group he led had to turn only 180

been brought to the surface. The

kilometers away from the pole. Barely

expedition searching for Shackleton’s

three years later, Amundsen reached

ship was allowed to watch – and film –

all the way.

but not touch. Rerlated: Only Filipina Who has Related: The Fascinating Arctic

Reached the North Pole

Through the Eyes of Blaise Drummond

Polar history “We have made polar history with

Built in Norway

the discovery of Endurance, and

Endurance, was built at Framnæs

successfully completed the world’s

Mechanical Workshop in Sandefjord,

most challenging shipwreck search,”

Norway. The vessel was at the center

said John Shears, the expedition’s

of one of the most famous stories

leader.

of survival in polar regions. Just a

few years after Roald Amundsen

In 1922, Shackleton returned to

became the first to reach the South

Grytviken, on his way to another

Pole, Shackleton wanted be the first

expedition in Antarctica. While in

to cross the continent. The Irish-

South Georgia, he died of a heart

Dr. John Shears, the expedition’s leader

History

Shackleton’s last voyage. Map by BBC

attack and was buried in the island’s cemetery on March 5, 1922. On the exact same day 100 years later, he was honored, among other things, by a military honor guard at the grave. Norwegian-Built Polar Ship Found After Over 100 Years Under Ice, written by Tor Kjolberg

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

The Norwegian China-Man As a young man, Johan Munthe (1864-1933) was born in Bergen. He received a military education at the Cavalry Cadet School (Kavaleriets underoffiserskole) in Trondheim. In 1886, he emigrated to China during a period of upheaval and rebellion. He also collected what has become one of Europe’s largest collections of Chinese art. Learn more about the Norwegian China-man.

enior consultant at the

an adviser to the Chinese Ministry

Bergen Museum Kode,

of War during the early years of the

Jorunn Haakestad, who

republic. At the same time, he was

is the editor of the book

building up a massive collection of art

“Porcelain and Revolution”, says

objects, most of which he eventually

that the general, adventurer and art

donated to the West Norway Museum

collector Johan Munthe is a fascinating

of Decorative Art in his birth-town

man.

Bergen.

Munthe first started working with the

For almost 25 years, Haakestad has

Chinese Maritime Customs Service.

been responsible for the art collection,

He enlisted in the Chinese Army

which counts over 4,500 East Asian

during the First Sino-Japanese War

objects, 2,500 of which were donated

(1894–95). He mastered the Mandarin

to the museum by Munthe, who’s

Chinese language and remained as a

association with Yuan Shikai proved

cavalry instructor under General Yuan

advantageous. He advanced in rank

Shikai.

to lieutenant General and Chief of Legation Quarters Beijing. He was also

Porcelain and Revolution, edited by Jorunn Haakestad

Donated 2,500 objects to Bergen

an advisor to the Ministry of War, the

After the fall of the empire, he became

first and only foreigner to achieve such

the Chinese collection is part of KODE Art Museums and Composer Homes

History

a position. He gained good access to

was Governor of Hong Kong from 1947

China collection, some disturbing.

arts and crafts.

to 1957.

Which objects are

The Chinese Collection

Throughout his life, Munthe sent

originals and which are copies? How

Today, the museum and Munthe’s

boxes of Chinese art home to Bergen.

did he get all the art? Was it legal? “I

magnificent bequest – the Chinese

The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art

am exploring this”, says Haakestad

collection – are part of KODE Art

at the University of Oregon also holds

about the book.

Museums and Composer Homes.

a large number of works collected

Munthe’s collection includes porcelain,

by Munthe, later acquired by the

Jorunn Haakestad has contributed

paintings, costumes, and statues in

Museum’s founder, Gertrude Bass

essays to many exhibition catalogues

bronze and marble.

Warner (1863-1951).

and specialist journals, and has edited several books on arts and crafts.

In the book “Porcelain and Revolution”,

Related: Stories From a Young

Jorunn Haakestad introduces us

Norwegian’s Stay in China

to the life of this fascinating man.

The Norwegian China-Man, written by Tor Kjolberg

Drawing on new sources, she adds

Jorunn Haakestad (born 1950) is an

further dimensions to Munthe’s story,

art historian with a PhD from the

presenting him not just as a soldier

University of Bergen. From 1997 to

and art collector, but also as a bank

2007 she was director of the West

director, amateur poet, and religious

Norway Museum of Decorative Art.

contemplative. Thus, she brings us

Since the museum became part of

closer to answering the enigma of

KODE – Art Museums and Composer

who Johan W.N. Munthe really was.

Homes, she has been principal conservator, with responsibility for the

In 1919, he married German-born

China collection.

Alexandra Ethelred von Herder (1867-1920 ). She was the widow

Related: China and Norway Normalize

of Frederick William Grantham

Relations

(1870–1915) and was the mother of Sir Alexander Grantham (1899–1978) who

There are many stories about the

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Books

Norwegian Researchers on Ukraine’s Astonishing Defense The book “Digitalisering og internasjonal politikk” (in Norwegian only) was launched on Monday. The use of digital weapons, not least in war-times, is a rising problem. The researchers Karsten Friis and Håkon Bergsjø, both from NUPI, take a look on different perspectives from leading professional environments on how digitalization affects international politics and conflict dynamics. The Norwegian researchers take also a look on Ukraine’s Astonishing Defense. 56

Feature image (on top): Illustration by Inge Grødum for Aftenposten

s the conflict in Ukraine

Related: Danish Movie – A Warning

escalated, experts on

Sign For Europe

digitalization have been speculating about the

In what has been referred to as an unprecedented effort in the midst of

might conduct. However, Russia’s

an armed conflict, a whole “IT army”

reputation as a digital power nation

of volunteers was assembled in

seems to have failed just as much as

response to a request by the minister

Russia’s reputation as a military power.

of digital transformation to support the

Books

kind of cyber-attacks that Russia

country’s cyber-defense efforts, with Related: New National Cyber Security

reports of some even operating from

Center To Be Established in Sweden

within bomb shelters.

Ukraine’s cyber defense

Security policy choices

Ukraine has been systematically

The book by the Norwegian

investing in cyber defense for many

researchers does not focus on the

years. The Ukrainian defense has

Ukraine’s cyber-defense but rather

succeeded in intercepting the Russian

on what security policy choices and

invasion forces as well as maintaining

dilemmas the new digital everyday life

its own communication with the

represents for Norway and the rest of

outside world. NATO, which has

the world.

been working for a number of years with Ukraine to increase its cyber

Related: Nordic Cross Border Military

defense, signed an agreement a few

Training

The book by the Norwegian researchers does not focus on what security policy choices and dilemmas the new digital everyday life represents for Norway and the rest of the world.

weeks before the invasion aimed at enhancing cyber cooperation with

One thing is for sure, though.

Ukraine.

Russia wants to destroy the existing communication channels. Maybe

Zelensky has had video meetings

they will succeed, because this war

with world leaders almost daily. Only

is not over yet. But so far it has been

in the last week he has spoken to

astonishingly quiet from Russian

the authorities in the United States,

hackers.

Israel and Italy. It strengthens the morale of the Ukrainian people –

Norwegian Researchers on Ukraine’s

and the support of the international

Astonishing Defense, written by Tor

community.

Kjolberg

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses the nation in Kyiv, Ukraine, late Monday, March 7, 2022. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP)

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

Humor

Humor in Scandinavia Everyone has a sense of humor – at least to a certain extent – although not everybody is willing to show it. Despite the rumor that Northern people lack humor, I claim that Scandinavians are extremely good at making and taking jokes. Why? Read on and learn more about humor in Scandinavia. 58

ne of the reasons

Thanks to a slew of satires, rom-coms

why the rumor of

and dramedies, things are changing:

Scandinavians’ lack of

Scandi comedy is about to become

humor is probably that

the new Nordic noir. Lisa Langseth, creator of Netflix’s Love & Anarchy,

though that Scandinavians don’t have

said, “Sweden is put into a box where

the reputation of being the clowns in

dark crime has made us famous

the room. Many foreigners believe that

abroad. People just don’t think of

Scandinavians laugh only when they

humor when they think of Sweden.”

have a facial cramp.

Her series, about an outwardly

Humor

it often fails to translate. I must admit

successful but secretly dissatisfied The chain reaction

married mother of two (starring Ida

However. We’re not different from

Engvoll) couldn’t be further from

other people. We have all experienced

grisly crime drama. A Man Called Ove

that there is usually a chain reaction,

(starring Rolf Lassgård) is another

when someone starts laughing and

example of genuine Swedish humor.

everybody starts laughing before they don’t even know what they are

Norwegians, like myself, love to laugh,

laughing at. Such scenes are very

but there is a mix of different types

familiar to the ones who attend to

of humors which hit a nerve with

academic conferences, where you can

Norwegians. Although Norwegians

see the biggest number of people who

love to laugh, I am not sure there is

are ready to laugh at anything.

a typical Norwegian humor like for instance the British.

Related: Is He Norway’s Victor Borge? Related: What Does The Fox Say? ‘Galgenhúmor’ or ‘gallows humor’ is very typical of Scandinavia, and

Danish humor is a tricky thing for

so-called Scandi comedy is about to

many foreigners. Danes compete with

become the new Nordic noir.

the Brits for world leaders in dry humor

Rolf Lassgård starring in A Man Called Ove,

SCANDINAVIAN MONTHLY │ EDITION NO. 12 │ MAY 2022

and sarcasm, but it can be hard for We have all experienced that there is usually a chain reaction, when someone starts laughing and everybody starts laughing

she failed to live up to expectations.

foreigners to figure out what’s a joke and what’s not.

Norwegian Sverre Bjørstad Graff is the author and illustrator of the

Sweden’s ‘The 100 Year Old Man

very popular and hilariously funny

Who Climbed Out of a Window

Absurdgalleriet. Considering his

and Disappeared’, based on Jonas

huge fan base, it seems fair to say

Jonasson’s well-loved and best-selling

absurd humor is hitting a nerve in the

book, is a relative recent comedy

Norwegian public.

from Scandinavia that has found international success.

Another home run is the very bad English some Norwegians have, using

One of the possible reasons that most

Norwegian expressions as if they were

foreigners do not see that Norwegians

translatable in English: “Honey, don’t

have humor is that many Norwegians

forget to take the dekks with the pigs”

have a very dry humor. They say

(piggdekk is a spiked winter tire), is

things with a serious face, when it was

one of them. When one of our prime

actually a joke.

ministers should explain to a Brit that Norwegian cars have the steering

The Danes have a tradition called the

wheel on the left side of the front seat,

kvajebajer (failure beer) or kvajekage

he said, “Norwegian cars have the rats

(failure cake.)

on the left side.” (Ratt is steering wheel in Norwegian).

The person who makes a big mistake offers this beer or cake to others as a way of playfully admitting that he or

Related: How To Annoy Scasndinavian

I cannot end this short presentation of

The Dane says, very confused:” But

Scandinavian humor without trying my

you just gave the second to last

best to share with you a typical joke

parachute to the Swede? There’s only

about the Swede, the Norwegian and

one left now.”

the Dane:

To which the Norwegian replies: “Relax man, I gave him my backpack.”

So, a Norwegian, a Dane and a Swede

In any case, one thing is for

are on a private flight. Suddenly,

sure, humor is very important in

the pilot turns on the speaker and

Scandinavian countries. To survive in

says: “The plane is malfunctioning

an area where it is night time half of

and is going to crash. There’s three

the year and raining the rest, you need

parachutes, and I’m going to take one.

minimum two things: alcohol and

You’re going to have to figure out who

humor. And sex. And holidays in the

doesn’t get one”. He then proceeds to

South. Okay that makes four things.

Humor

Three men and a parachute

jump out of the plane. Humor in Scandinavia, written by Tor The three men panic, but the

Kjolberg

Norwegian tells the others to calm down and then says to the Swede: “Here. You take one, we’ll figure out who gets the last one.” And the swede jumps. The Norwegian then turns to the Dane and says: “Let’s grab the chutes and get out of this thing.” ‘gallows humor’ is very typical of Scandinavia. Illustration by Absurdgalleriet