Scan Magazine, Issue 140, March 2022 by Scan Client Publishing

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DARIN – AN IDOL TWO DECADES AT THE TOP BIG SWEDISH CULTURE SPECIAL UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP TO DENMARK MADE IN NORWAY: OUR TOP DESIGN AND LIFESTYLE PICKS

PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA ISSUE 140 MARCH 2022

M A G A Z I N E

The main exhibition tells the story of IKEA. For current temporary exhibitions, go to IKEAmuseum.com

KÖKET restaurant is a destination in itself. Light, fresh dishes combined with new interpretations of our classic meatballs

The museum shop sells gifts, souvenirs and newly produced design classics

Come to IKEA Museum!

IKEA Museum is a destination for everyone who’s curious about how Ingvar Kamprad from little Agunnaryd created the global company IKEA is today. It also gives you new perspectives on design and life at home. Book guided tours of exhibitions, packages including lunch and tea/coffee breaks, or stay overnight at the cosy IKEA Hotell. For more details of opening times and all our offers, go to IKEAmuseum.com

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Contents

Contents COVER FEATURE 24

there are Vikings and guitars aplenty, and there’s children’s literature, award-winning chamber music, and an arty, urban buzz. Whatever you’d like to fill your cultural itinerary with on your next trip to Sweden, we’ve got options – from north to south, for old and young and everyone in between.

Darin: An Idol Two Decades at the Top 20 years have passed since Darin Zanyar stepped into that Idol audition room, and the pop star is still wowing audiences everywhere from music arenas to TV screens. We caught up with the Swedish singer to chat songwriting, coming out, and plans for the future.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect setting for a few quiet spa days in naturally beautiful surroundings, you’re hoping to trace the steps of kings, or you’re all about the fruits of the sea, Denmark offers cultural and natural wonders to suit all tastes. Here are our top picks for 2022.

DESIGN 6

Dinner Party Days We celebrate the first signs of spring with our picks of dinner party must-haves alongside fashionable tips for looking light and sporty while keeping it cool with over-sized, textured garments for days in the park – or indeed at the dinner party. Want to up your hosting game with a fancy pool and garden fire? We’ve got you sorted.

Unique Experiences in Denmark

Made in Norway Stay well and healthy the way Norwegians do, with beautiful children’s clothes suitable for sensitive skin, ground-breaking supplements, skin care in sustainable packaging and great sound for your favourite relaxation tunes. There’s no end to the goodness in this month’s Made in Norway special.

LIFESTYLE SECTION 13

Sunny Slope Sips and Golfing Greens As skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts prepare for their last mountain escape this season, our beer connoisseur offers tips on what to drink on the slopes – or after. For those who prefer to keep things green, we list the best and handiest golf courses in Scandinavia, and there’s something for those looking for a flavoursome kick, too.

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Returning to Iceland Scan Magazine reporter Paula Hammond speaks to actor Anita Briem about her new film and leaving LA for her native Iceland. Cartoonist Maria Smedstad reflects on strict workers’ rights and opening times in Sweden, and we list the new releases and cultural happenings not to miss in the coming weeks and months.

SPECIAL THEMES 30

Swedish Culture Special There’s art collected and painted by a prince and exhibited in the beautiful, lush archipelago;

REGULARS & COLUMNS 6 86 92

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| Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, This month, we have an issue that is packed full of things to do and places to go this year – something to carry us through as we cling on to hope, humanity and solidarity. Aren’t art, nature and community among the best medicines out there as we dig deep for more energy and new ways to live together in peace? For those planning a trip to Denmark, we list this year’s unmissable natural explorations and art destinations, along with advice on the most luxurious, peaceful places to stay. We’ve found some quality golf courses in handy locations too, for those keen to hit the green, while beer connoisseur Malin Norman shares her top tips for making the most of that spring sunshine on the slopes along with a cold brew. Speaking of sunshine and vitamin D, what you don’t manage to get on the slopes, you can now get in fully approved, high-quality supplement form thanks to a couple of passionate, innovative Norwegian brands. We spoke to the entrepreneurs behind them, as well as a few other Norwegians on a mission, among oth-

er things protecting your ears, promoting Sámi culture through interiors and design, and making beautiful clothes for children with sensitive skin. Then there’s of course our annual Swedish culture special. It’s big and beautiful and presents everything from modern illustration and landscape paintings to museums about Vikings, opera icons and textiles. Whether you’re a guitar fanatic, you’re looking for that arty urban buzz or you’re hoping to escape to simpler days of the past, we’ve got destinations and activities to tick your boxes. Take it from modern pop extraordinaire, Idol legend and recent gay icon Darin, this month’s cover star: doing new things is inspiring – but only ever do what’s right for you. So, what’s right for you and your Nordic itinerary this year? You might just find it on one of the 100-or-so pages ahead. Whatever it is, grab it with both hands, and enjoy.

Linnea Dunne, Editor

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| Issue 140

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A Swedish Classic w w w.svensk husman . se

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Design

Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary… Kickstart spring with this season’s playful, sporty take on power tailoring, featuring over-sized fits paired with something light, tight or textured. By Åsa H. Aaberge

Press photos

Transition into the new season with a timeless appearance. The Reno houndstooth windowpane check coat in handwoven tweed from Danish Wood Wood is a sleek merge between a classic peacoat and a durable workwear jacket. Layer with a soft flannel cotton shirt underneath. Wood Wood Reno coat, €800 Avenir shirt, €165 www.woodwood.com

As we welcome March, we welcome back the sun. The champagne and royal blue Foster sunglasses from Norwegian Frank Walton make the ideal outfit topper with a perfectly on-trend round frame and warm shades. Frank Walton, Foster sunglasses, €225 www.frankwaltonoslo.com

The melton wool trousers from Arket are tailored for a versatile, straight fit with pressed details and a hardwearing yet soft, felt-like fabric. The light-beige hue adds nicely to a brighter spring pallet. Arket, melton wool trousers, €125 www.arket.com

A penny loafer is perfect for warmer days and an essential that is easy to wear with everything from casual wear to business attire. Sport the Penny loafer from Stockholm-based Morjas, with ribbed wool socks, for everyday use. This model, pictured in suede, has durable, comfy leather and is sold in a variety of colours and textures. Morjas, Penny loafers, €200 www.morjas.com

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A traditional tailoring element, the waistcoat is part of the three-piece suit. However, it can just as well be worn alone as a top or over a shirt or T-shirt. The waistcoat as a top-trend has made a comeback over the latest few seasons, in line with the trends of the early 2000s coming back into fashion. Femme Gilet striped, €130 www.aiayu.com

| Design

| Fashion Diary

An oversized blazer worn with a voluminous, embroidered princess skirt offers the perfect contrast between sharp and playful, a combination interpreted by various designers this season. You can wear this outfit from Danish Skall Studios in countless ways: with trainers, with high heels, with a knit or a structured shirt – or indeed, wear the pieces separately as part of other creative outfits! Skall Studio, Astrid skirt, €460 Joan blazer, €375 www.skallstudio.com

Name a more timeless, seasonless and chic coat than the trench coat? We’ll wait! It is versatile and classy, and great with skirts, jeans and dresses alike. This trench coat from & Other Stories, made in organic cotton, offers a relaxed fit featuring iconic details with a double-breasted silhouette, a tonal buckle belt and buttoned shoulder tabs. & Other Stories, Double Breasted trench coat, €150 www.stories.com

Slip-on ballerinas go with everything and are great shoes for spring. The Brindisi ballerina loafers from Swedish ATP Atelier are made in soft leather and neutral colours. Wear light, neat shoes with tailored, oversized garments to add a feminine touch and a spring in your step. ATP Atelier Brindisi ballerina, €290 www.atpatelier.com

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Design |

We Love This

We Love This The first rays of spring sun are getting stronger, and so too is our appetite for socialising. Surely that alone is worth a dinner party? Nothing fancy – good friends, good food and good design. The first two are up to you, but we have you covered on good design. Check out Scan Magazine’s five dinner party must-haves to create a beautiful atmosphere. By Lena Hunter

Press photos

Champagne saucers – better known as coupes – rose to prominence in the 20th century and have become perennial signifiers of boozy opulence. The shape suits rounder, more complex styles of wine: the shallow bowl prevents excessive production of bubbles, while the large surface area allows aroma and flavour to develop. fermLIVING’s charming, rippled set are mouth-blown and have all the vintage romance of high-society parties gone-by. Here’s looking at you, kid. fermLIVING Champagne saucers, set of two, €39 www.fermliving.com

With two interior-design releases a year, Broste Copenhagen’s collections tread the line between tradition and trends. Their range of artistic homewares are novel without being kitsch. The Limfjord Plate – named after the eponymous Danish waters famed for shrimp and oysters – has an elegant organic form and neutral glaze that complements any table setting. Broste Copenhagen Limfjord plate, €21 www.brostecopenhagen.com

Småland-based Cooee started as a jewellery label in 2005. After expanding into home accessories ten years later, it’s now one of Scandinavia’s most lusted-after new names in interior design. Because the Swoop brass candlestick, designed by Norwegian architect Hans-Christian Bauer, elevates the candle, it avoids the often heavy and unwieldy aesthetic of table lighting. Swoop is quietly beautiful and can sit non-invasively amongst plates and wine glasses. Cooee Swoop candlestick, €58 www.cooee.se

Would a Scandi dinner party be complete without some Georg Jensen bling? Denmark’s hallowed silverware label needs no branding and little introduction. The Bottega Veneta of tableware, its unmistakeable curves betray it immediately. “Is that a Georg Jensen?” your guests will ask. “Yes – a Henning Koppel,” you’ll reply. The Danish artist, Koppel, collaborated with Georg Jensen in 1945 and for almost 40 years, and his masterful designs – like the HK Pitcher – continue to enchant. Georg Jensen HK pitcher, €230 www.georgjensen.com

Scandinavian textile label Himla swears by linen. “It creates fascinating contrasts: rough and smooth, airy and rugged,” they explain. The tablecloths from the Sunshine range are finely woven and washed for a soft feel. Giving a relaxed impression, the fabric can be dressed up or down according to the occasion. What’s more, they’re easy-care, so spilt wine is a non-issue. A broad range of colours is available, but this exquisite sage green gives rustic, late-summer gathering vibes and is the perfect canvas for a splash of decoration. Himla tablecloth, €129 www.himla.com

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WWW.HAPPYFLUFFYCLOUD.SE

Everyday luxury for outdoor spaces Drop’s award-winning spas have been built using state-of-the-art technology and top-quality materials. The company’s sleek and stylish outdoor fires and spas offer a touch of luxury for any home. By Ndéla Faye

| Photos: Drop Design Pool Oy

Drop was originally founded by renowned Finnish designer Nikolai Ruola. He had grown tired of the traditional hot tubs that were on the market, and wondered if he could create one with a unique design: an outdoor spa that would be eye-catching in design, but also user-friendly. And that’s the story of how Drop was born, inspired by the shape of the spa Ruola had designed. Drop spas are designed using what is state-of-the-art technology and only the best-quality materials. Showcasing a sleek, Finnish functionalist design, the company has clients across Europe, and the spas are sold at several retailers all over the continent. “In a relatively short 10 |

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amount of time, we’ve managed to build a name for ourselves as the go-to company for stylish spas,” says Sirena Kiviranta, board member and owner at Drop. What sets Drop apart from other brands is that their spas can be embedded anywhere, and the spas can be panelled with any material. “From marble to wood panelling, our spas are designed to suit the needs of all our clients. Our spas vary in pricing and can be tailored according to our clients’ wishes,” says Kiviranta. Drop has been recognised widely across the globe and has won several awards, such as the prestigious A’ Design Award Bathroom Furniture and Sanitary Ware

Design Category in 2019. In addition, Drop won the Design Deed of the Year award from the Association for Finnish Work in 2015. The company was recognised for its originality, a sense of responsibility, and design as part of everyday life. Drop is the only company that has won the award for outdoor spas. “Drop has proven that there is demand for functional and minimalistic Nordic design spas and our outdoor Fire. We are on a journey to become the Finnish outdoor design brand of the 2020s,” Kiviranta continues. Everything you need, ready to go The Drop spa is sold in a basic package, which includes everything needed for a quick and easy installation. The design of the spas has been carefully thought of: from the design inside of the drop-shaped basin to its sleek and refined look. “Most traditional hot tubs have walls at a 90-degree angle, which

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means they are not very comfortable to sit in for any great length of time. In Drop spas, a person sits in a comfortable and ergonomic position. The seat has a slight upward slope, allowing users to sit comfortably,” Kiviranta explains. Another added benefit of the spas’ inside shape is that the volume of water in the spa decreases, while the amount of water used to fill the spa remains in the same range as in hot tubs with a much smaller inside diameter.

is designed and handmade in Finland. Following the same shape as the Drop spas, they make a stylish addition to any outdoor space. Kiviranta highlights their multifunctionality: “In addition to the bioethanol burner, you can use the Drop Fire with wood or coal. When you put the cover on, it serves as a table.” She concludes: “We want our customers to be able to enjoy high-quality

Design Profile

Drop Design Pool Oy

Finnish design. Our spas are able to enhance any outside space and add a nice touch of comfort and pampering – as well as something that is very pleasing to the eye.”

Web: www.dropdesignspa.com Instagram: @dropdesignspa Facebook: Drop Design Spa

The Drop spa comes with an aluminium frame and plywood panelling, which makes it really easy to embed it in a terrace or add custom-made panelling. “The installation of our spas is very easy. Our electrically heated Drop spas are designed for year-round use and can be kept ready to use no matter the weather,” Kiviranta adds. Bringing Finnish design to the world As well as spas, Drop has launched a new range, called Drop Fire. The high-quality outdoor Fire with a bioethanol burner March 2022

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Design Profile

ÜNIKU

ÜNIKU: the slow-living lifestyle brand you need in your home It’s rare to discover an emerging label that feels truly grounded. So, when lifestyle brand ÜNIKU launched last year, rooted in “calm, order, traditions and respect”, it became an instant hidden gem of Danish design. By Lena Hunter

Photos: Stine Albertsen

Founders Mette Skouboe Schultze and Helle Bjerre Knudsen call it a “little universe”. It’s apt: every product is crafted with the help of former partners and independent artisans. “Everything is made with respect for people and nature. We want to express something peaceful, natural and made to be kept forever,” says Mette. Danish ceramics and Balinese baskets If ÜNIKU’s hand-turned ceramic coffee cup, breakfast bowl and candleholder didn’t have such a contemporary design appeal, you could almost mistake them for organic stone forms found on the beach. Rough to the touch, glazed in sandy palettes, and flecked with salt-and-pepper tones reminiscent of Scandinavia’s rocky coastline, the Craft ceramic collection is designed in partnership with a local Danish ceramicist. “We’re very inspired by 12 |

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ceramic tradition and creating a tranquil aesthetic universe,” says Helle. Authentic craft is at the centre of that universe. The beautiful Ayu range of kitchen baskets and trays are woven by a family in Bali. The rattan weave is strong, flexible, and has a burnished-gold sheen. “It’s a wonderful collaboration. Their work is incredibly skilled, but they were struggling for clients since travel restrictions slowed tourism in Bali,” explains Mette. Loungewear and textiles

delegate the handiwork to small-scale local producers,” says Helle. “Everything fits together. People love to buy a lounge set and a pair of coffee cups together, or a wash bag with a knit.” The ÜNIKU universe ÜNIKU may be young, but Mette and Helle have always had a clear vision for the label. “We wanted to create a living universe. A universe where there were clothes and baskets and ceramics. Where everything is sustainable, long-lasting and made with love,” they say. Joking that they’re the “peaceful ones in the office”, Mette and Helle founded ÜNIKU on the same mindful attitudes. “We’ve always been about conscious business, so it’s a joy to be able to share that.”

Perhaps the most illustrative of ÜNIKU’s slow-living philosophy is the loungewear range: thick, wool-cashmere knits in navy and alabaster, and deliciously soft button-down lounge sets. Mette and Helle, who share a background in textiles, designed the line themselves. “We also have handmade wash bags produced by a fair-trade set-up in India. They

Web: www.unikuliving.com Instagram: @unikuliving

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Lifestyle

Columns

Scandinavian Lifestyle Refreshing beers after crisp days in the mountains Ski bums and outdoor enthusiasts, there is still time to soak up some winter sun in the mountains. Whether staying at a fancy ski hotel or in a comfy cabin, hitting the slopes or cross-country skiing at a slower pace, or just enjoying some down-time on a sunny terrace – there are some delicious beers available for quenching your thirst, perfect for snowy winter days. For great taste without a huge ABV, a crushable Czech-style pilsner will be refreshing after a day on the slopes. Going slightly darker, a sessionable Amber Lager has a nice balance of caramel malt and hop bitterness. Meanwhile, a classic Dunkel, a dark lager, juggles flavours of chocolate, bread crust and caramel, but without being too sweet, and usually also goes well with food. If you like hoppy beers, Swedish brewery Beerbliotek has a superb one for relaxing with friends in the cabin. Sällskaps-

dryck is an easy-drinking American Pale Ale full of citrus and stone fruit with pronounced bitterness. Norway’s Lervig has a fantastic IPA, suitably called Field Trip, brewed with kveik yeast. Think pineapple, mango and tangerine coupled with intense hops. And To Øl in Denmark tempts with Blizzard, a dry-hopped winter wheat IPA described by the brewery as “a turbid white thunderstorm in your glass”. Beer is often best enjoyed fresh, so try a local brewery if you get the chance. For instance, Fjäll-Plzner by Sälens Fjällbryggeri is a Czech-style pilsner with notes of crispbread, apricot, caramel and orange. Its hazy IPA, called Fjälldimma, sounds delicious too, with well-balanced fruitiness and hop bitterness. Fjällen by Åre Bryggcompagni is a juicy, double dryhopped American Pale Ale with hints of mango, pineapple, grapefruit, rosemary and honey. Also based in Åre, Svartberget

By Malin Norman

brews Smokey Mountain, a smoked rye beer reminiscent of charcuterie and rye bread, perfect when curling up on the sofa by a crackling open fire.

Malin Norman is a certified beer sommelier, beer judge and member of the British Guild of Beer Writers. She writes about beer for Scan Magazine, beer magazines and beer suppliers.

A burden shared is a burden halved – why group exercise is a secret to fitness fun We’ve all been there: dragging ourselves to the gym after work, vowing that tomorrow will be the day we join that 6am spin class, or tying the running shoes on with a big sigh. But what if there’s a way for you to feel motivated to get moving, which doesn’t involve strict exercise plans or 5am alarms? Enter group exercise. Or, as a start, surround yourself with people who exercise. Psychology and exercise researchers have long known that the people around us influence us, so if you surround yourself with people who exercise regularly, it will naturally change your thought patterns and your feelings about moving your body. You’ll start to perceive exercise as something more desirable, positive and doable. But what’s even better than just surrounding yourself with people who exercise is joining them. Scandinavians are known for combining socialising with exercise. In Den-

mark, one in three people is part of a private sports club for sports such as tennis and football, and Sweden’s largest fitness organisation, Friskis & Svettis, has 107 clubs throughout the country and sees groups of gymnasts take to local parks to move together to up-beat music. For the majority of these people, it’s not just about exercise; it’s also about the social aspect, meaning that they’re more likely to show up. As many as 75 per cent of Danish children participate in sport on a regular basis, and newcomers in Denmark are encouraged to join a sports club as soon as possible. Studies show that you are more likely to stick with working out if you enjoy it, and researchers say that exercising with others can help with that enjoyment – that’s even if you find the activity difficult and you wouldn’t usually enjoy it. Exercising in a group makes

By Heidi Kokborg

it a fun social activity. So, if you are struggling with your fitness plan, why not join one of the many sports societies and clubs like the ones they have in Scandinavia? It seems like they’re onto something…

Heidi Kokborg is a journalist and health coach from Denmark. She runs her own online business and writes a column for Scan Magazine about health and wellness in Scandinavia. Web: www.heidikokborg.com

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A visit to flavourful India Spicy, flavourful, rich – these are all words that come to mind when thinking about Indian food. Curry Leaves in Sønderborg offers an authentic, scrumptious and tempting array of Indian dishes. Here, you can gorge on deep-sea delights, savour a delicious vegan dhal, or enjoy a sizzling hot plate of lamb curry – all while being taken care of by the friendly and attentive staff. By Heidi Kokborg

Photos: Curry Leaves

“What are the odds of running into sublime Indian food in Sønderborg…? I don’t know but that is exactly what you can expect from Curry Leaves. And then you also get the best and kindest service in the kingdom. The dishes are balanced, tasty and you will not leave feeling hungry.” This is just one of the many five-star reviews of Curry Leaves on TripAdvisor. The family-run restaurant is highly popular, and once you taste the food yourself, it is easy to see why. When entering the 14 |

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restaurant, you are greeted by smiley, friendly staff and a scent that instantly transports you to India. “Owning a restaurant is hard work, and it means you are often away from friends and family. To us, our guests are our friends and family. Every guest that walks through the door is welcomed like a close friend or a family member,” smile Sinthu Sivakumar and Sivakumar Sivasamy, the owners of Curry Leaves. In India, there is always room for one more person at the

table, and there is always enough food to go around – a philosophy that shines through at Curry Leaves. The land of spices Indian cuisine is as colourful and diverse as the country itself. You will be tempted by soft samosas dipped in a yogurt mint sauce, freshly baked naan, mouth-watering butter chicken, dhal and vindaloo – all washed down with a mango lassi. Seeing as India is one of the largest countries in the world, with hundreds of dishes, Curry Leaves decided right from the get-go to only serve the most popular and most delicious dishes from the Indian kitchen. “We make everything from scratch, and we also make our own spice mixes. We believe this makes the food even tastier,

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Lifestyle

Culinary Profile

and it smells better. Of course, we also adapt the recipes a little bit to please the taste buds of westerners. For instance, we often hold back on the chilli as we have discovered that most Danish people are not used to too spicy food,” explains Sivakumar. If you aren’t a big fan of very spicy food, don’t worry. Indian cuisine consists of a lot more than simply chilli. It’s no coincidence that India is known as the spice capital of the world. Besides chilli, most Indian dishes include spices like cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, black pepper and – naturally – curry leaves. And as for the chilli, well how much or how little you want is completely your own choosing. Recipes passed down through generations In India, there is a saying that the food changes every 100 kilometres. But there is one thing that ties all Indians together: chai. Oh, how Indians love their chai. At Curry Leaves, you can get a traditional masala chai – ‘masala’ means spices in Hindi, and ‘chai’ means tea – but beware, it is highly addictive, and you will want to come back for more. While each family usually has their own recipe, often times, chai is made from black tea with cardamom, cinnamon and other ayurvedic spices. The chai is

then mixed with full-fat milk and a touch of sugar. When drinking the tea, it can feel like time slows down for a moment, and it is best enjoyed in the company of friends and family. “Whether it is food or beverages, we follow recipes and techniques passed down through the family, which bring you the rich taste of Indian foods. We always serve freshly prepared dishes that are presented in a tempting way,” says Sivakumar. If you have always wanted to visit India, then a visit to Curry Leaves is a wonder-

ful place to start. Indian food is a reflection of culture, habit, identity and history. It might surprise you how almost every dish has a story, or a tale tied to it. With its welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, Curry Leaves will leave you with memories that shine bright long after you have enjoyed the last bite of your curry and the last sip of your chai. Web: www.curryleaves.dk Facebook: CurryLeavesRestaurant Instagram: @curryleaves_sonderborg

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Above: Many of the school’s students love creativity – either as a study programme focused on art, or in the form of ceramics or drawing classes. Bottom: The school has well-equipped music rooms as well as a sound studio, which is always open to the music students.

Combining academics and creativity Mandarin, Latin, biotechnology, eSport and IT tech – these are just some of the subjects Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole offers. The boarding school prepares students for A-levels while also allowing them to express themselves creatively in different ways. This is a boarding school for ambitious students who wish to be challenged and to advance their studies. By Heidi Kokborg

Photos: Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole

Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole is the place to be for ambitious, high-achieving students who are looking for extra challenges before starting their A-levels. The boarding school specifically focuses on preparing the students for what awaits them during their A-levels, while also giving them plenty of opportunity to engage in creative subjects like painting, music or writing. Students certainly don’t need to be straight-A students to attend the boarding school; but they do need a can-do spirit, a willingness to learn and a good work ethic. 16 |

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“Our students like learning, and they want to deepen their studies. This is a boarding school for students who love going to school. We have students who are primarily maths orientated and oth-

ers who are more language orientated, but they all do their best – even if the subject is not where they are naturally at their best. It’s important that the drive and motivation come from the students and not their parents,” explains Poul Roed, principal at Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole. For students who wish to learn more languages, the boarding school offers languages such as Mandarin, Cambridge English, Latin, French, German and Spanish. For those more focused on STEM subjects, there are also opportunities aplenty, including biotechnology, eSport and tech subjects. In fact, the school offers a programme called MakerSpace, which is focused on everything related to IT, programming and technology. The school also offers a myriad of other study programmes dedicated to music,

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Lifestyle

Education Profile

Left: The school is located in natural surroundings near a forest but within cycling distance from the city. Right: On the MakerSpace programme, the students learn to programme their own robots. Here they are designing parts for 3D printing.

theatre and musical, art, writing, and a programme called GamerSpace, for those with a passion for gaming. Students can combine up to three study programmes. Let the creative juices flow “It’s very important to us that we combine academics with creativity. That’s also why we offer these creative programmes; the students don’t have to choose a specific study programme, but most of our students do. Many of them are multipassionate, and we think it’s important that they get a chance to express themselves creatively, while also focusing on their academic studies,” explains Roed. “It gives the school a very special atmosphere when you offer both academic and creative classes, and it is fantastic to watch and feel creativity thrive.” Students can attend creative classes like drawing, pottery, creative writing, music and painting alongside their academic classes, and once a year they put on a musical. “Each student helps with the

musical one way or another. Some act and sing, some make costumes, while others are in charge of sound. They do everything together,” says Roed. The musical is always a well-known one, and it is one of the highlights of the school year. A strong sense of community While the students do have a jam-packed curriculum, they still have time to have fun, watch films together and go on exciting school trips. Every November, the students travel to Berlin – a trip that is partly planned by some of the students. “The students plan part of the trip, and they are allowed to have input. The rest of the trip is planned by the teachers,” says Roed. Then, each March, there is another trip, when the students can go either on a fun skiing trip to Norway or travel to France on an exchange. In France, they stay with students from a local French school, which Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole works with. This is a fantastic opportunity for those wishing to

experience French culture in an authentic way, connect with foreign students and improve their language skills. “The trips are also a way to strengthen the sense of community we have at the school. During their time here, the students develop very close and strong friendships that last a lifetime, and they grow academically, creatively, as well as personally.”

Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole is a boarding school that prepares students for their A-levels. The boarding school is for ninth and tenth grade students. Every year, around 120 students attend the school.

Web: www.vge.dk Facebook: Vardeegnens Gymnasieforberedende Efterskole Instagram: @vgeefterskole

Left: Every year, the students put on a musical. Middle: The writing study programme teaches students various writing techniques and genres. Each year, the school publishes a book with the students’ own pieces. Right: Academics play an important role at the boarding school. Here the students are at a biotechnology class.

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A golfing break in the Finnish archipelago Bjärkas Golf & Country Club is a family business, dedicated to providing guests with some rest and recreation in a beautiful setting, in the Kimitoön island region. Especially for those who know their putts from their birdies and fairways, this is an ideal location for a family break – by par. By Ndéla Faye

| Photos: Bjärkas Golf

The Bergholm family has owned the property that Bjärkas Golf & Country Club stands on since the late 1600s, and possibly even longer than that. During its long history, the premises served as a seamen’s room, where a log of boat crews that were going to and coming from sea was taken. It was Finland’s largest seamen’s room, and it kept a log of some of the country’s biggest vessels – some of which sailed as far as the Americas and the Caribbean. The seamen’s room closed its doors in the late 1920s. “You can really feel this place has had a long and colourful past,” says Fredrik Bergholm. Today, his children are the 16th generation in the family to reside there. 18 |

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Bjärkas Golf & Country Club has won the prize for Finland’s best golf hotel four times at the World Golf Awards – the most prestigious awards programme in the golf tourism industry. Bjärkas Golf is located in the village of Nivelax, on Kimito island in southern Finland. The country club is

a great way to explore the Kimitoön island region. “We’re located near the idyllic town of Dalsbruk, the town of Salo is around 60 kilometres from us, and for families, Moomin World is about an hour’s drive away. Most of our guests come here by car, and the central location serves as a perfect base for those wanting to explore the towns and surrounding nature,” says Bergholm. Bjärkas has an 18-hole Par-57 course, made up of 15 Par-3s and three Par-4s. The resort attracts seasoned golfers look-

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“We are surrounded by nature, and there are a number of options for activities

Golf Profile

Sustainability is important for Bergholm, and so, two years ago, a solar plant was installed at Bjärkas, and now the property is largely run with solar power. The property has five electric car spaces, and guests get a free charge of their vehicle while staying at Bjärkas. “We are continuously moving towards greener energy. This way, everyone’s a winner,” Bergholm adds.

“It is perhaps not your typical golf course, but it offers the perfect challenge for golfers of all skill levels. With a distance of around five kilometres, the course is very manageable, even with kids in tow,” says Bergholm.

The Bergholm family has focused on creating a peaceful retreat for visitors. Bjärkas has a number of villas and apartments available, ranging from apart-hotel-style accommodation to a suite. All the rooms are kitted out with each their own kitchen and bathroom. Aside from golf, there is also a sauna, as well as a ping pong and a pool table.

Lifestyle

to host a successful business meeting. The property also has a garden and a terrace, complete with a barbecue.

ing for a relaxing break, but families aren’t left high and dry either. The golf course is on hilly terrain, which gives golfers the chance to take in breath-taking views of the surrounding nature.

A stunning location, with plenty of activities

and days out for the whole family, from stunning hiking trails to fishing, foraging for berries, and skiing in the winter,” says Bergholm. For swimming, the Norrlammala limestone quarry is only a five-minute drive away, and there are tennis courts and a padel field just a few kilometres away. In addition, the country club also has a restaurant that caters to larger groups, as well as a meeting room, kitted with a projector and other equipment required

From business clients to families, there is something at Bjärkas for everyone. “We can tailor our guests’ visits to suit their needs. We’ve wanted to emphasise the fact that this is a peaceful retreat for those looking for a relaxing time in a beautiful setting,” Bergholm concludes. Web: www.bjarkasgolf.com Facebook: Bjärkas Golf Instagram: @bjarkasgolf

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Kongsvingers Golfklubb is beautifully situated in the midst of a forest.

Time to swing! Do you want to hit a golf course while on holidays in Norway? Are you having a stopover at Gardermoen and would like to use it for something relaxing, recreational and fun? Or are you a devoted golfer looking for unique courses to try out your skill? Whoever you are, Kongsvingers Golfklubb has something to offer. By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen

Photos: Kongsvingers Golfklubb

Golf might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Norway, but the sport has had a major upswing in the country in recent years, fuelled both by successful athletes and by Norwegians’ love for outdoor recreation. Not even Covid put a halt to the growth of golf in Norway. On the contrary, since it was considered safe and Norwegians were allowed to practice it for most of the 20 |

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administrative director at Kongsvingers Golfklubb, and points to the birch-tree adorned court, immersed in peace and quiet, and the all-encompassing Norwegian nature.

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pandemic, golf has continued to flourish even in the past two years. A unique spot Although golf courses are scattered around most of Norway by now, one of the most popular destinations is in a small town in the eastern part of the country, Kongsvinger. “We are a small club in a big world, but what we can offer is truly unique,” explains Daniel Larsson,

Together, the surroundings and the quality of the services offered have earned Kongsvingers Golfklubb the title of Norway’s Best Golf Course, awarded by World Golf Awards no less than seven times, something Larsson is clearly proud of. “This is a small place, but our court is generally known to be a very good spot,” he says and explains that they had over 7,500 visitors last year, well above the average for a Norwegian golf club. “It’s not only the court – it is the entire package:

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Golf Profile

The club house at Kongsvingers Golfklubb is a good place to relax after golfing.

want to mix business with recreational pleasure. The club also boasts an on-site restaurant that seats 85 people, run by a local chef who serves dishes made of local produce. Several instructors are also ready to give golfers, at all levels, quality lessons to improve their game. Accommodation: from an old fortress to a forest cabin

the quietness, the nature, the services offered,” he stresses. A complete offer Whoever you are, what your objectives are and what level you play at, Kongsvingers Golfklubb has something to offer. This small but professional and friendly club offers all guests a very special golf experience at very competitive prices compared to the more expensive alternatives in and around the capital, Oslo. Besides the main court and the practice courts, Kongsvingers Golfklubb offers free equipment rental, changing rooms and shower facilities, a well-equipped pro shop and a meeting room for those who

To cater for all visitors, the club has also teamed up with different local hospitality spots to offer different types of accommodation that suits all budgets and tastes. Choose between the fashionable and historical hotel and the old Kongsvinger Fortress, typical Norwegian-style cabins in the forests catering for tourists, and budget hotels or camping. “We’ve had guests from all over the world,” Larsson smiles. He remembers in particular a Japanese couple who had a layover of several hours at Gardemoen airport and, rather than waiting there, rented a car, drove to Kongsvinger, rented equipment and enjoyed themselves on the golf course before they headed back to Gardermoen to catch their flight to Helsinki. Precisely that proximity to Gardermoen, Norway’s main airport, is another benefit

of Kongsvingers Golfklubb. The drive is just over an hour, making it even easier for visitors to include a session on the court in their trip – or for those who come from other parts of the country to spend the weekend there. “Booking is also fairly easy,” Larsson explains in that friendly manner emblematic of smaller places. “You can book via our website or by calling us – or you can show up and hope for available spots.” A bright-looking future The success of recent years has emboldened the staff at Kongsvinger, who are now planning to further expand their offer. They are updating their practice facilities to include a nine-hole course and are constructing a garage for golf carts. For an outsider, Kongsvingers Golfklubb with its large stretches of green fields tucked in among birch trees and forests, undeniably seems like a wonderful place to spend a relaxing few days. It can even make those who have never golfed before want to try and have a swing of the golf club!

Web: www.kongsvingergolf.no Facebook: Kongsvingergolf Instagram: @kongsvingergolf

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Golf Profile

Nature, peace and golf Looking for a short break from the hustle and bustle of the roaring city life? One of eastern Norway’s finest golf clubs offers peace, fun and incredible rural surroundings. Along with beautiful nature, Kjekstad Golf Club provides two excellent courses and magnificent Norwegian scenery for both beginners and professional golfers. By Celina Tran

Photos: Kjekstad Golfklubb

Since its establishment in 1976, the two-course golf club has proved itself as one of eastern Norway’s finest. The club’s facilities include an 18-hole and a 9-hole course, as well as various practice areas, pitching and putting greens, and much more. “Our courses are known for being fun and challenging, where you may very well end up playing your way across forest ponds and might encounter a rabbit or two along the way,” says Bjørn Lohne, managing director at Kjekstad Golf Club. Kjekstad Golf Club, known for being a sight for sore eyes, is located in the middle of a forest. Both its courses are 22 |

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integrated into its natural surroundings, and players are treated to an idyllic experience of trees, lakes and hills. The 18-hole course, which was designed by Jan Sederholm and finished in 1988, is a distinctive forest course. The club has made it clear that they wish for their players to encounter and experience nature while playing. “We have a strong focus on providing high-quality courses, and our slogan is ‘you get the nature experience for free’,” Lohne explains. “I once asked a couple how the day had been. They replied that they had an amazing time but could not remember how the actual game had ended.”

Only half an hour south of Oslo, Kjekstad Golf Club in Røyken can easily be reached by both car and public transport. Lohne recommends travelling by car, should you be bringing your own gear. “If you don’t have equipment, it is also possible to hire everything you need,” he says. “We are proud to offer a wide range of courses and training areas, so whether you are a beginner or a semi-professional player, everyone is welcome to join in.” Web: www.kjekstad-gk.no Facebook: kjekstadgolf

Proper needlework will last a lifetime. Lises Festdrakt is made of quality fabrics and tailor-made to each individual customer in our tailor shop. This garment can be inherited through generations!

www.lisessystue.no post@lisessystue.no Tel. +47 91701266

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Cover Feature |

February 2022

Darin

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Cover Feature |

Darin

An Idol two decades at the top You’d need to search the length and breadth of Sweden, and ask the question to a lot of its inhabitants, before you stumbled upon a Swedish person who didn’t know who Darin is. The avenues they’ll know him through will differ – be it the perennial presence of his music on the radio, his career-defining turn on Så Mycket Bättre, his interval act at the Eurovision Song Contest when it was hosted in Malmö in 2013, or his humble beginnings on the TV show Idol – but know him they most certainly will.

released music exclusively in Swedish. “Writing and singing in Swedish is amazing, and I’m gonna continue doing that, because I love writing in Swedish,” ponders the artist, “but it does limit it to Scandinavia of course.”

By Karl Batterbee

the same time. That I’ve actually been able to do this for such a long time. Some of the things feel like they happened yesterday – while some of them feel like they happened 50 years ago,” he laughs. “It does feel like a long time ago,” says Darin, when asked about those first few years. “It was a different world back then.”

Last year, however, he returned with yet another new sound, a stylish new look, and he was singing in English again. And it’s certainly not the case that he’s limited himself to Scandinavia anymore. The first single, Can’t Stay Away, is currently serving as his debut hit single in Italy, for example, where, at the time of writing, it’s the highest placed Englishlanguage song on the Italian radio airplay chart.

In the many years since then, he’s racked up no less than seven number-one albums in Sweden, and kept things interesting for his fans – and for himself – by dipping in and out of musical eras. For one eight-year period – arguably his most commercially successful, on both streaming and radio – he recorded and

For his latest batch of English-language releases, Darin has worked with a new bunch of songwriters, something which, by this point in his career, he knows is important in order to keep things interesting: “I always get inspired by new things. Things that happen in my life – new people that I meet and new people

Photos: Koury Angelo

It was at this Idol audition, on the very first series of the show in 2004, that a 16-year-old Darin Zanyar first came to the attention of Sweden. As is often the case in these situations, a powerful singing voice belied the shy auditionee it was coming from. But as is actually quite rare in this sphere, it’s a singing voice that is still something of a radio staple almost two decades later; something that most artists – those who have come through reality TV or otherwise – can only dream of. “It’s insane. 20 years,” reflects Darin, who hasn’t been keeping track of the remarkable anniversary he’s been hurtling towards. “It feels crazy and cool at

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| Cover Feature | Darin

that I’ve had the success I’ve had back home in Sweden. But I’ve done music in Swedish for so many years now, and I’m looking forward to all these new songs in English. To be able to share the music with even more people. That’s very exciting for me right now.” But then he’s also keen to not get too bogged down in the grand plans, keeping his feet firmly on the ground, all too aware that it is this more modest approach that has contributed to getting him where he is now. “I’m a lot in the now. And a little bit in the nearest future. That’s the way I think. Maybe that helps me be creative.”

Press photo

that I work with. Everyone works in different ways. Everyone thinks in different ways, too. That’s why it’s so nice to collaborate. That’s one of the great things about working with other people – you get inspired.” From the very beginning, Darin has been involved in the writing process for his music, something he is just as passionate about as he is about performing. And with every new team of collaborators for every new album, he’s cherished the experience of learning something new each time. “That’s the way for me to think when it comes to most things in life. You can always learn more. You’re never finished learning, I feel. You can always develop, evolve, learn more things, try things in different ways. That’s the best way to think, especially when it comes to creative things.” And what’s the most important thing he’s learned in the writing process after all this time? “It’s about experience when it comes to lyrics. It’s about living life and then writing about it.” In his most recent songs, Darin now has the freedom to write from a more personal perspective than ever, having used the occasion of International Pride Day in 2020 to take to his Instagram and share with his followers the revelation 26 |

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that he is gay. “It was the right timing for me. And that’s the most important thing. For it to feel right for you. Not doing things for other people.” It was a statement that was met with – thankfully – universal support from the Swedish media and music industry, and from his fans, some of whom had been with him for 16 years at that point. And it’s ended up moving things in a positive direction for the singer, too: “I love to write. And I think that helped a lot with the coming out. Plus, it gave me a whole new energy. To be honest, it’s more fun now for me than it’s ever been, creating and releasing things. Especially when it comes to the visuals and the fashion, and trying out new things. For example, the music video to Can’t Stay Away; I don’t think that would have been the way it was had I not come out.” With so much achieved – on both a personal and a professional level – in these last two decades, it’s intriguing to know how an artist looks ahead and thinks: ‘right, what next?’. But Darin does at least have some idea of his hopes for the near future, from the perspective of where he finds himself today. “I’m very happy with what I have achieved. I don’t take anything for granted. I’m so happy that I’ve done the things that I have –

If he thinks only in terms of the near future, then it’s pertinent to ask what that near future holds for Darin. Can we expect an outlandish new musical era to be ushered in soon? Mercifully, he knows what his fans want from him, what works for him, and what he wants for himself, too. “I love pop music. That’s the genre I grew up with and it’s always gonna be the one I like listening to the most. Even though I listen to everything – I listen to jazz, I listen to Spanish music a lot and French music, all kinds of genres – I’m always gonna love pop music the most.” After 18 years in the game, and at the top of his game, it’s this admirable commitment to the genre that has seen him become such an integral part of it. Can’t Stay Away single cover design.

Instagram: @DarinOfficial

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Darin

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Top Ten Feature |

Scandinavian Cultural History

Ten key trends and milestone moments in Scandinavian cultural history 1. Garbo, Bergman, and the art of silence Swedish Hollywood superstar Greta Garbo and renowned director and screenwriter Ingmar Bergman never actually worked together, despite both being known for the same understated, melancholic, dark expressions. But they were both highly influential and lauded in the world of cinema, and both central to the view that was emerging throughout the world during the 1900s of Sweden as a sombre but picture-perfect place.

The Öresund bridge, world-famous since its central appearance in the Nordic Noir hit series The Bridge. Photo: Shutterstock

2. ABBA’s Eurovision Song Contest victory Sweden may be the country with the second most Eurovision wins, but few victories compare with that glorious 1974 glitter fest, when ABBA won with Waterloo. No Swede has ever mentioned being Swedish outside of Sweden since without someone exclaiming, ‘Oh! Sweden! ABBA!’ So long, Bergman-esque bleakness; this is glam and glitter all the way. 3. The ‘90s chart pop wave We’ll bet money that, if you were young during the ‘90s, you know most or all of the lyrics to Ace of Base’s All That She Wants, Whigfield’s Saturday Night, Red-

Ace of Base albums and artwork. Photo: Shutterstock

nex’ Cotton-Eye Joe and Aqua’s Barbie Girl. The list goes on, and while it’s hard to say exactly what it was that made the Scandinavian ‘90s pop era so illustrious, illustrious it was – and with a bit of hindsight, we can even take pride in it. 4. Nordic Noir It started with Beck and Wallander, but it was perhaps The Killing that sealed

the deal, with The Bridge crowning Nordic Noir as not just a craze, but a wide-spread succession. Versions of the Sarah Lund jumper popped up in every high-street fashion shop and tourists flocked to Malmö to do the tour and visit the bridge itself. With strong yet three-dimensional female heroines moving through well-designed, minimalist environments, some say Nordic Noir did more for Brand Scandinavia than any consciously commissioned branding campaign ever will. 5. Spotify and a new way to consume music Love it or loathe it – as the first music streaming service to offer a subscription model and unlimited streaming, Sweden’s Spotify might just have changed the way we listen to music forever. Arguably, while the streaming giant took a bit of a hit on the stock market initially, it’s likely that not even Neil Young and Joni Mitchell withdrawing their back catalogues in response to a certain podcaster’s approach to pandemic analysis

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Scandinavian Cultural History

will change the fate of the music listening market. 6. Hygge and other lifestyle trends Fancy some ‘hygge’ with that cup of tea, or some ‘lagom’ with your daily bike ride to work? Why not top up on ‘sisu’ during a particularly challenging hike, or soak up on easy-going ‘friluftsliv’ with some mushroom foraging? Some of last decade’s Nordic lifestyle trends were more successful than others, but together, they helped to cement the reputation of Scandinavia as a cosy, balanced, healthy haven of nature and equality. 7. SKAM and teen culture from Norway Less ridiculous than 90210, a million times more real than Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and years ahead of Sex Education, Norway’s SKAM (which means ‘Shame’) became an overnight hit, depicting in raw and honest and sometimes uncomfortable ways the challenges and thrills of teenage life. Covering everything from sex and eating disorders to religion, homophobia and, naturally, love, it simultaneously manages to showcase some of Scandinavia’s greatest strengths, but in subtle ways that truly pull on the heartstrings. 8. Trolling Trump When Sweden’s then climate minister Isabella Lövin tweeted a photo of herself Frozen. Photo: Shutterstock

Hygge. Photo: Shutterstock

signing a climate bill surrounded by only female colleagues, including one heavily pregnant, which very clearly mimicked that of then US President Trump signing the abortion global gag rule surrounded by suited men only, there was little doubt that she knew what she was doing. And sure, that’s politics, not culture, but in the context of a Swedish government that promoted itself as explicitly feminist, in the very same year that the #metoo movement was eventually reborn, we’d like to insist that the move was not just political but also very much cultural indeed.

9. Disney goes Nordic Did you know that Arendelle, the home village of princesses Elsa and Anna from Frozen, was based on a number of different Norwegian locations? It may have been subtle at first, but with the roping in of Norwegian Aurora on unmistakably Nordic backing vocals for the Frozen 2 theme tune, Into the Unknown, Disney made it clear beyond doubt that the magical universe that’s home to Olaf and Sven (as if the names didn’t give it away) is Scandinavian and nothing else. 10. Iceland, Eurovision, and woke culture We’ve had Scandinavian wildcards in the Eurovision Song Contest before, but Daði and Gagnamagnið are in a league of their own. Not only was their 2020 contribution to the competition that never happened a true banger that went viral on TikTok, but with adorable, nerd-chic outfits and the pansexual flag taking pride of place during their video performance for last year’s semi-finals, they immediately won over every queer and woke music fan out there and continue to be a much-loved phenomenon to this day. Credit also to Iceland’s industrial techno band Hatari, who made no secret of their love of queer kink when representing their country at the Eurovision Song Contest the year before Daði and Gagnamagnið took the rein. Perhaps Iceland has found its Eurovision niche? March 2022

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RE U lT LT ia U c e C Sp H CIAL S I ED SPE SW e:

m he

Zanele Muholi, Ntozakhe II, Parktown, 2016. From exhibition at Bildmuseet. Photo: © Zanele Muholi Courtesy of the artist and Stevenson, Cape Town/Johannesburg/Amsterdam and Yancey Richardson, New York.

Photo: Textilmuseet

Borås Art Museum, Walking to Borås by Jim Dine. Photo: EmilDalqvist

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Swedish Culture Special

Photo: Gamla Linköping

Gimme, gimme, gimme – more Swedish culture! From landscapes painted by a prince to a children’s book character that’s travelled the world, here’s our pick of unmissable cultural experiences for your next trip to Sweden. Are you curious about Vikings? A photography fanatic? Interested in chamber music or the ways of living of days gone by? There are countless high-quality, well-curated museums in Sweden, including gems that rarely make the tourist lists. In addition, there’s the country’s rich textile production history and a bold, innovative art scene.

things design and social commentary, Sweden has plenty of options.

Whether you’re looking for historical insight and reflection, to be wowed by stunning views and jaw-droppingly impressive art, or to be challenged to think outside the box when it comes to all

For information about travel, accommodation, attractions and more, please visit: www.visitsweden.com and www.sweden.se

Add world-class service, award-winning food and unspoiled nature to explore in between your cultural activities, and we guarantee that you’ll have a wonderful break in Sweden – good for both head and heart.

The Swedish Chamber Orchestra. Photo: Nikolaj Lund

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Swedish Culture Special

View of the Zanele Muholis exhibition at Bildmuseet, 2021–2022.

Meet the gaze of Zanele Muholi Synonymous with world-class contemporary international art, Bildmuseet in Sweden’s Umeå is home to high-quality exhibitions, thought-provoking collaborations and stunning architecture. The museum is currently hosting a powerful collection of photos from world-renowned Zanele Muholi, and its doors are wide open. By Emma Rodin |

Photos: Mikael Lundgren

When it comes to Bildmuseet, it’s not only what’s on the inside that counts. The museum is in itself a piece of art, with architecture that attracts the eye. Designed by renowned Danish firm Henning Larsen Architects, the sevenfloor purpose-built building has a wooden façade with large windows and sits next to the serene Ume River. It’s fitting, really, that this somewhat bold building is home to Muholi’s striking collection, giving its significance and importance a platform to flourish. Zanele Muholi is a South African photographer and visual activist whose work has been exhibited all over the world. 32 |

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Muholi has portrayed the lives of people within the LGBTQIA+ community for over a decade, empathy and pride always taking centre stage. Now, and until 8 May, around 100 photos and video installations divided into eight themes are on display at Bildmuseet. “We’re thrilled to be showing Zanele Muholi’s work here at the museum and inviting the public to discover and engage with this important collection of art,” says Brita Täljedal, one of the display’s curators. The exhibition presents Muholi’s career as photographer and activist and includes photos that are both beautiful and captivating. One of the series on show is

Only Half the Picture, which documents people who have been victims of hate crime because of their sexual orientation. In this series, a sense of love, intimacy and strength features alongside intense images alluding to traumatic events. Because although South Africa’s 1996 constitution promised equality for the LGBTQIA+ community, people in this group are still targets of violence and prejudice. Stories of bravery Another theme – and perhaps the most impactful – is the ongoing series Somnyama Ngonyama, which translates to ‘Hail the Dark Lioness’. A collection of self-portraits, these powerful and reflective images explore themes including labour, racism, Euro-centrism and sexual politics. At first glance, they bring the mind to editorial fashion shots, but as you look closer, you realise that they’re anything but.

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In one image, Muholi wears clothes pegs in their hair to pay tribute to their mother who worked as a housekeeper to feed her eight children. “Muholi is a very intelligent and innovative photographer who delivers political messages in ways that really strike a chord,” explains Täljedal. In their own words, Muholi takes back their Blackness because they feel it’s been staged by privileged white people. In these photos, Muholi has deliberately increased the colour contrast so that their skin looks even more Black and their eye whites even more white. Captivating and serious, yet playful. There’s also Faces and Phases, an ongoing series that has brought Muholi international recognition. The collection holds over 500 portraits of individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community, celebrating their lives and bravery. These people risk everything by living authentically in the face of oppression and discrimination. ‘Faces’ refers to the individuals in the photos, while ‘phases’ refers to transitions regarding sexuality, gender and identity, but also changes in their everyday lives. “Each subject looks directly at the camera, challenging you as a viewer to hold your gaze. It’s quite powerful,” says Täljedal.

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Swedish Culture Special

View of the Zanele Muholis exhibition at Bildmuseet, 2021–2022.

The heart of art “I believe that art overall can affect people in different ways to news and other media. It gives us another way of looking at the world, with new perspectives, and is absorbed differently by our brains,” says Täljedal. “And that’s the power of art.” Asked why she thinks Muholi’s work has such great impact on people globally, Täljedal says she believes it’s the combination of strong, visual photography and political content – as well as the calculated composition and level of empathy found in each piece of work. “I think that we all have something to learn from Zanele Muholi,” she concludes. Web: www.bildmuseet.umu.se Instagram: @bildmuseet

Current and upcoming exhibitions at Bildmuseet:

Zanele Muholi Until 8 May Iwo Myrin: Memories from the Taiga Until 17 April Eva Kotatkova: What Does a Turtle Feel Through the Carapace? 8 Apr to 4 Sep

Swedish Picture Book of the Year 18 Mar to 16 Oct Mats Jonsson: Still Sámi 17 Jun to 30 Jan 2023 Nancy Holt: Inside Outside 17 Jun to 2 Apr 2023

Left: Zanele Muholi, Mellisa Mbambo, Durban South Beach, 2017. © Zanele Muholi. Courtesy of the Artist and Stevenson, Cape Town/Johannesburg/Amsterdam and Yancey Richardson, New York. Middle: Zanele Muholi, Qiniso, The Sails, Durban, 2019. © Zanele Muholi. Courtesy of the artist and Stevenson, Cape Town/ Johannesburg/Amsterdam and Yancey Richardson, New York. Right: Zanele Muholi, Bona, Charlottesville, 2015. © Tate. Purchased with funds provided by the Africa Acquisitions Committee 2017.

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Swedish Culture Special

Left: The dining room at Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde. Middle: Prince Eugen’s piece Molnet. Right: The castle building and the park. Photo: Kjell Renblad

Immersive experience at Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde Beautifully situated on Djurgården in Stockholm is Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde, a much-loved and award-winning art museum. Visitors come to see the artist’s home, the fascinating collection and temporary exhibitions, as well as the lush park and garden.

and Finnish artists illustrating the island’s rural landscape and the beautiful archipelago, along with portraits and genre paintings from life in the community.

By Malin Norman |

From 3 September, Waldemarsudde will present a research-based exhibition showing the diversity in the works of the famous Swedish painter Isaac Grünewald. And from 12 November, visitors can see works by one of Sweden’s most eminent contemporary artists, Charlotte Gyllenhammar, shown inside the galleries and in the museum park.

Photos: Lars Engelhardt

Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde consists of a main building, built in 1903–1905 as a residence for Prince Eugen, and a gallery building that was added in 1913. The prince was one of the leading landscape painters of his time. He was also an important art collector and a central figure in the Swedish cultural world, and the museum displays a selection of his paintings, a collection including works by Anders Zorn, Carl Larsson and Carl Milles, and temporary exhibitions. “This is not your average museum. It’s a former artist’s home, a former Royal home – and it’s situated in a lush environment with an amazing view over the inlet to Stockholm,” says Karin Sidén, superintendent and director general at Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde. “Both locals and tourists enjoy spending time here, admiring the architecture and the homely feeling in the residency, being fascinated by the works of art, going for a stroll in the park and garden with beautiful flow34 |

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er beds and sculptures, and finishing with lunch or fika.” Renowned works and contemporary names Over the years, Waldemarsudde has arranged a number of critically acclaimed exhibitions with Nordic and European art. The museum’s programme is varied, with some of the most renowned pieces of art as well as exciting contemporary names. This spring, it hosts the new exhibition Nikolai Astrup – Visions of Norwegian Nature until 29 May. This is the first monographic exhibition featuring the popular Norwegian artist in Sweden for over 60 years, with around a hundred works, mainly oil paintings and woodcuts. From 14 May, the museum will feature the 19th-century artist colony at Önningeby on the island of Åland, an often overlooked group. The exhibition Light over Sea and Land – The Önningeby Colony on Åland highlights important works by Swedish

Prince Eugen in his atelier. Photo: Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde’s archives

Web: www.waldemarsudde.se Facebook: prinseugenswaldemarsudde Instagram: @prinseugenswaldemarsudde

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The permanent exhibitions.

Calling all history lovers Behold Jamtli, a magical museum for children and adults alike, where history, art and culture meet. Pay this historical hotspot a visit and you’ll find Nationalmuseum Jamtli, an arena for art and design, accompanied by an open-air museum and indoor exhibitions. That’s three for the price of one. By Emma Rodin

museum and is brought to life by actors and animals. Visitors are invited to take part in various role-playing activities that demonstrate how people lived in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

Photos: Jamtli

Jamtli is the regional museum of Jämtland and Härjedalen and can be found in Sweden’s Östersund. It has played – and still is playing – an important role in preserving the region’s fascinating history, through interactive and engaging displays and events. Perhaps that’s the reason why Jamtli has cemented itself as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Nationalmuseum Jamtli is a branch of the Swedish National Museum, and its current display Nordic Myths will run until 18 April. This summer will see the launch of Nordic Nature – Ideal and Reality, a new exhibition where artists depict Nordic nature from the 17th century onwards. “A collection of art and crafts will showcase various eras and their view of nature as a source of beauty, but also as economical resources, science objects and identity symbols,” explains Jamtli’s

Christina Wistman. The exhibition holds around 130 works of art by artists including Elias Martin, Pehr Hilleström, Bruno Liljefors, Helmer Osslund and contemporary artist Frida Fjellman. Once you’ve soaked up the art shown at Nationalmuseum Jamtli, there’s lots more to explore. Head to the indoor museum where the Jämtland region’s cultural history comes to life. This includes both temporary and permanent exhibitions, such as Vikingar (Vikings), where the ancient woven cloths called ‘Överhogdalsbonaderna’ can be found. These fabrics have existed for more than 1,000 years and depict a world miles away from the one we live in today. Since the 1980s, Jamtli has also been working on its living history project, Jamtli Historyland. During the summer, this takes place in Jamtli’s open-air

If guests fancy a break during their visit, they can sit down at the museum’s cosy café. And before they leave, they can stop at the gift shop, which has been described as Östersund’s best. So, whether you’re young (or slightly less so), a true history fanatic, or just curious about the world, it’s fair to assume that you’re about to fall in love with Jamtli.

Jamtli Historyland 1975.

Web: www.jamtli.com Facebook: jamtlimuseum Instagram: @jamtli_ostersund

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The Swedish Chamber Orchestra. Photo: Nikolaj Lund

Setting the tone for classical music – now and in the future They strongly believe in what they do. They work hard and make sure to develop, with the future always in sight and with heritage in mind. We are of course talking about one of the world’s most successful orchestras, the Swedish Chamber Orchestra. Touring internationally, recording albums and now starting their own podcast – these are just a few of the things that make this group vibrant and always relevant. By Amanda Düring

starting with the previous conductor Thomas Dausgaard, who developed the orchestra’s rich sound and stood for continuity, stability and hard work during his 22 years with the orchestra. In 2019, he handed over the baton to Martin Fröst, a well-known clarinettist with significant international recognition. With Fröst as conductor, a new era started that increased the orchestra’s artistic scope.

With a lot going on, it’s indisputable that the Örebro Concert Hall really is the place to be. Here you’ll find the members of the Swedish Chamber Orchestra, all 39 of the musicians with each their own rehearsal room, something that is rare. The freedom that it gives, to have their own space, is an important part of the orchestra’s success. It gives each and every one of the musicians a security and a homely spot in their everyday work space.

artistic director for the orchestra, “but the sound they create is bigger than the sum of its parts. We’re bringing classical music, and sometimes we add a modern twist. We’re so glad to be able to bring our music not only to a Swedish audience, but also on tour internationally. The reception we get when we meet our audience is absolutely fantastic, both at home and on tour.” Dausgaard and Fröst – the conductors

“We’re privileged that everyone we work with is so talented; not only our own musicians, but also the international musicians who join us and bring their own competence and perspectives. In doing so, we keep classical music alive and continue to develop the sound with every new meeting,” says Emily Öjdemark, marketing manager.

“The difference between a chamber orchestra and a symphonic orchestra are two buses,” jokes Gregor Zubicky,

One of the reasons why the Swedish Chamber Orchestra has gained international renown is its conductors,

Recently, Martin Fröst won the International Classical Music Award for Artist of

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a conversation led by Zubicky and always with a guest, like guest conductors, solo artists or solo musicians of the week. There will also be episodes where Zubicky and Fröst are discussing classical music, performances and more,” says Öjdemark. To make classical music more widely available, the orchestra also gives performances on Wednesdays. These start a little earlier, allowing people to elevate their normal after-work drink with a concert. And without the typical intermission, the Wednesday concert finishes in time to head home for dinner. Wirénsalen. Photo: Lena Larsson

the Year. Considered one of the breakout stars of his generation, he is known for his boundary breaking performances, both as a solo clarinettist and as a conductor. He performs regularly in roles with orchestras such as the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, the London Philharmonic and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra among others. He was recently voted the Greatest of All Time as one of the three greatest clarinettists of all times, the other two being Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw. “Fröst certainly shapes our performances and elevates them to a level that we’re all so pleased to be able to share with our audience,” says Zubicky. “He’s great at bringing out the best in our highly professional musicians and

Martin Fröst, chief conductor. Photo: Nikolaj Lund

selecting pieces that really showcase everyone’s talents.”

Soundscapes – the Swedish Chamber Orchestra podcast One of the key aspects of the orchestra’s work is bringing those talents to everyone – including people who may not consider themselves classical music fans. “Market research has shown us that people sometimes think that they don’t like classical music, but when they attend a concert they find that they actually do like it,” says Öjdemark. “They get swept up in emotion while listening. That’s magic!” “We want our concerts to be as accessible as possible, to everyone, and that’s one reason why we started Soundscapes – the Swedish Chamber Orchestra podcast. It is

Emily Öjdemark, marketing manager. Photo: Lena Larsson

You’ll find the orchestra’s home at Örebro Concert Hall, which was originally built in 1932 and then rebuilt in 2015. The Concert Hall seats 724 people. You can buy tickets on the Concert Hall website, follow the orchestra’s everyday life through its social media channels, and listen to the music on the YouTube channel. You can find the Soundscapes podcast wherever you choose to listen to podcasts, or via the links below.

Web: www.orebrokonserthus.com/ svenska-kammarorkestern Facebook: Svenska Kammarorkestern Instagram: @swedishchamberorchestra YouTube: /Orebrokonserthus

Gregor Zubicky, artistic director. Photo: Nikolaj Lund

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One of Sweden’s most visited museums, where history comes alive The open-air museum Gamla Linköping is one of Sweden’s most visited museums. As you enter, history comes alive and you can experience with all your senses what everyday life was like for ordinary people more than a hundred years ago. By Malin Norman |

Photos: Friluftsmuseet Gamla Linköping

Gamla Linköping Open-Air Museum has around 450,000 visitors per year. Last summer, it was one of Sweden’s most popular museums, coming in fourth place overall, according to the Swedish Museums Association (Riksförbundet Sveriges Museer). “Open-air museums have had an advantage during the pandemic with a lot of outdoor activities for visitors, while indoor museums might have been forced to stay closed,” says Tina Karlsson, museum director. “At Gamla Linköping, we quickly adapted to the new requirements and moved even more activities and events outside. We introduced self-guided and digital tours, and our guides welcome visitors in the open air.” Step into history with all your senses Visitors can experience history coming to life as they stroll through over 38 |

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100-year-old wooden houses, cobblestone alleyways and gardens in the old town neighbourhood. They can literally see, listen to, feel, taste and smell history. With its combination of activities across generations and small shops, cosy cafés and restaurants, this popular destination has something for everyone.

hosts the Swedish Championships Week (SM-veckan) from 28 June to 3 July. During this week, participants in more than 30 sports will come to Linköping to compete, and there will be plenty of activities around town. “It’s a huge event that attracts a big audience, and we’re looking forward to welcoming many more curious visitors to our open-air museum.”

Gamla Linköping is open throughout the year, with 20 separate museums telling the story of people’s everyday lives and destinies of the past. Visitors can learn traditional crafts such as rope making, try old-fashioned ways of cooking, and understand what it was like to go to school or work in a town shop – or, suggests Karlsson, take part in a guided tour of the authentic homes from the early 1900s. In addition to its extensive programme of activities, the museum expects to welcome more visitors when Linköping

Web: www.gamlalinkoping.info Facebook: gamlalinkoping Instagram: @gamlalinkoping

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Photo: Beatrice Törnros

Hurrah for 50 years with Alfie Atkins It’s a year of celebrations at Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus – or, the Alfie Atkins Cultural Centre. The beloved character Alfie Atkins was created by Gunilla Bergström 50 years ago, and there is plenty of fun to be had throughout the year. By Malin Norman

Photos: Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus

Children’s book author and illustrator Gunilla Bergström first invented Alfie Atkins (known in Sweden as Alfons Åberg) in 1972 in the first book, Good Night, Alfie Atkins. Her series of 26 books has been translated into more than 30 languages, and Alfie is a much-loved character for millions of children all around the world. Alfie Atkins is not a superhero; he is just ordinary, like most of us, and in the books we get to experience his everyday universe and adventures. These days, Alfie Atkins lives in an old seed shop located at the Garden Society in Gothenburg. The listed building has been transformed into a creative cultural centre with authentic ‘70s décor. Here, curious visitors can watch theatre performances daily, play and get up to

mischief, climb and discover the block of flats where Alfie Atkins lives, meet the scary monster and, of course, see the famous helicopter. There is also a mini cinema, a hot-dog stand and a jungle labyrinth to explore. Celebrations in the spirit of learning 2022 is a year of celebrations at the Alfie Atkins Cultural Centre. “We celebrate 50 years together with Alfie Atkins,” says Anna Forsgren, CEO. “Throughout the year, we will offer even more fun activities, such as new performances and storytelling. Also, the centre opened ten years ago, and we will continue to commemorate Alfie Atkins creator Gunilla Bergström with a new exhibition about her work as an author and illustrator and a recreation of her studio.”

“Of course, we are relieved that the restrictions are being lifted and we can welcome visitors to take part in our activities again,” continues Forsgren. The centre maintains its focus on strengthening children’s rights and learning and has developed its digital offering further in response to the pandemic. There are more digital performances and interactive lessons, such as Chemistry with Alfie Atkins, plus a new digital meeting place based on what children wish to watch. The Alfie Atkins Cultural Centre is incredibly popular and welcomes more than 60,000 visitors per year. All activities are included in the admission fee, and visitors can also take a well-deserved break at Malcolm’s Café or check out Daddy Atkins’ gift shop. Web: www.alfonskulturhus.com Facebook: AlfonsAbergKulturhusGoteborg Instagram: @alfonskulturhus

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Dancing shoes.

Performance and play If you want to live out your childhood dreams of performing on stage, the Swedish Museum of Performing Arts is your next stop. In the middle of Stockholm, visitors get a chance to step into a different world. By Amanda Düring |

Photos: Jonas André

When approaching the museum, don’t forget to take a close look at the building it’s housed in. Kronobageriet, originally a bakery from the 17th century, is one of Stockholm’s oldest surviving industrial buildings. Throughout the years it has housed the aforementioned bakery, weaponry and a distillery, and today it forms a core part of the history the museum invites us to explore. As a nod to the building’s history, the on-site café is a labour of love, offering lunch and pastries, and is well worth a visit. Once you get inside, a whole new interactive world awaits you. Would you like to learn more about the Swedish pop phe40 |

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nomenon, with ABBA and Max Martin at the forefront? Or perhaps classic Swedish authors and filmmakers like August Strindberg, Astrid Lindgren and Ingmar Bergman? The permanent collection, built up over 100 years, consists of over 50,000 items. The items on display range from musical instruments from the 17th century through to today, to puppets, theatre costumes and much more. “It’s hard to pick out one item that’s the biggest draw,” says Christina Sköldkvist, museum director. “It’s really the breadth of the collection that gets people’s attention. We’ve got everything from beautiful creations from Ingar Bergman’s theatre

productions, to an oboe da caccia that is believed to have been used by Bach himself, to mention just a few things. Our collections also form a sort of timeline of how society and technology have developed over time, so it becomes almost like an overview.” Interaction and play Immediately inside, the opportunities are endless. Unlike at many other museums, a lot of the exhibits are interactive and offer the chance to create your own music, art and dance pieces. “Our visitors walk in through the doors and you can tell they’re almost shocked by everything you can see and do here,” says Sköldkvist. “It’s a very interactive experience, so alongside all the beautiful items on display you’re also invited to create your own art.” The range of visitors is huge, but the museum is particularly popular with

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schools and families. In addition to the tours and self-guided exploration, the museum offers all-day workshops for adults and children of all ages. “It’s incredibly important to us to give children and young people a chance to find their artistic expression. For some children coming here and picking up an instrument, it’s the first time they’ve ever had a chance to do that. It opens up a whole new world for them, and it’s a privilege to be able to be part of that.” Theatre productions from start to finish Beyond their ongoing work with the schools of Stockholm, the museum also collaborates regularly with theatre companies across the city. Companies of every size, including Dramaten, the Royal Dramatic Theatre, use the great hall

for performances and open rehearsals, inviting the public into the process of creating a great production. “Working with contemporary theatre companies is obviously something that’s central to our mission,” says Sköldkvist. “Our visitors get a chance to pull back the curtain, as it were, to get a feel for what it’s like backstage in the theatre. It’s a lot of hard work to put on a great production, and getting to see what that’s like is often the highlight of someone’s visit!” And of course, even in this case the museum offers plenty of opportunities to try it out for yourself, as part of the current On Stage exhibition. With items carefully curated to tell the story, nothing is too small to play its part – from a costume

Puppet show.

Person using the interactive dance pod.

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from Louis XIV’s royal ballet, to contemporary rap lyrics about identity. Who knows what you’ll discover? Things you can try include… Dancing on an interactive dance floor. Digital try-on of theatre make-up. Try on costumes from real productions. Produce your own song using samples from the museum’s collection. Play the floor-to-ceiling strings in the Sound Forest. Create your own puppet show with lights, sound and scenography.

Web: scenkonstmuseet.se Facebook: scenkonstmuseet Instagram: @scenkonstmuseet

Children dancing.

Exterior of the building.

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Unique place for unique space Färgfabriken is the exhibition hall that consistently produces thought-provoking exhibitions, inspiring new ideas in a playful atmosphere. Inhabiting an old industrial building in the area of Lövholmen, the hall and location have been uniquely preserved from redevelopment, with time turning into a hub for artists and creativity. Since opening in Stockholm in 1995, their unwavering drive to showcase contemporary art, architecture and urban planning have produced numerous exciting exhibitions, and 2022 will be no different. The main act for spring and summer is a retrospective exhibition of Åke Pallarp (1933-2013), a Swedish artist who has brought life and art to public spaces in the most unexpected of ways. For anyone visiting the Swedish capital and its surroundings, the likelihood of bumping into his art is big: the famous interior of the underground station Stadion was created in collaboration with artist Enno Hallek. Altar pieces, film posters as well as a water tower have been designed in his complex, subtle and humorous spirit. “The exhibition is a collaboration between Färgfabriken and his family. He was an artist

Portrait of the artist as a wolf, Åke Pallarp, 1968. Photo: Sture Pallarp

In a converted barn in Bålsta, 40 minutes outside Stockholm, you’ll find a fantastic collection of original comics and cartoon-inspired art. Boasting pieces by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Keith Haring and Andy Warhol, the museum is truly one of a kind.

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who moved between painting, sculpture and architecture and whose creative spirit has had a fantastic impact on our surroundings, which we are honouring in this exhibition,” says Elsa Bladh, project coordinator. The unique location provides a perfect spot for creative inspiration in the exhibition hall, café and shop, where local artists are frequently represented. The bustling atmosphere is channeled into projects, promoting new ideas and solutions to social problems – simply put, art as a tool for a better future. What’s not to like? Photo: Åke E:son Lindman

Art and play for 20 years

This special museum, founded by Lasse Åberg, the iconic Swedish cultural personality, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in style. “We’ve been going for 20 years now,” says Carina Åberg, CEO of the museum, “and we’re delighted to be able to showcase all these unique collections. We’re all very passionate about this museum, which is constantly evolving.” One of the collections taking pride of place is one of the biggest and best collections of antique Disney memorabilia in the world, as well as objects related to the world’s first cartoon character, The Yellow Kid, who first appeared in 1895. For younger visitors, there’s an opportunity to play in Trazankojan – the Tarzan hut – over three floors with slides, playhouses and regular screenings of the Swedish children’s film Trazan och Banarne. During the

By Nina Bressler

Web: www.fargfabriken.se Instagram: @fargfabriken

By Amanda Düring

| Photos: Åbergs Museum

year you visit, you can always be sure you’ll find a carefully curated collection of one-ofa-kind exhibitions.

spring and summer this year, the museum is building a fantastic playground, based on Lasse Åberg’s well-known character Trazan Apansson, due to open in September. In addition to the permanent collections, the museum also hosts regular temporary exhibitions. Currently, the gallery corridor is hosting art by cartoonist Maria Frölich, and from the end of March you’ll be able to see pieces by iconic Swedish children’s book author Sven Nordqvist. No matter what time of

The Yellow Kid.

Web: abergsmuseum.se Facebook: AbergsMuseum Instagram: @abergsmuseum

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Left: Try a dessert from a previous year’s menu. How about a red whiskey dessert with a gold medallion? Middle: The tailcoat worn by King Carl XVI Gustaf and the gown worn by Queen Silvia in 1995, and by the Crown Princess Victoria in 2018. Photo: Dan Lepp. Right: Find out what it takes to serve the guests at the banquet.

Ever dreamt of being a guest at the Nobel Banquet? Have you ever dreamt of rubbing shoulders with Nobel Prize laureates and experiencing the banquet first hand? A visit to the Nobel Prize Museum is the next best thing. The exhibition The Nobel Prize banquet – behind the scenes, will put you right at the heart of the event. By John Sempill

“Former Minister of Culture in Sweden, Alice Bah Kuhnke, wore a dress with a folded paper bolero and drew attention to the melting ice of the Arctic. It really made an impression.”

| Photos: Clément Morin

As one of Stockholm’s main tourist attractions, the new exhibition at the Nobel Prize Museum allows you to taste, feel and hear what it’s like to be a VIP at one of Scandinavia’s most cherished events. “We had the idea for an exhibition based on the Nobel Prize banquet for several years,” says museum director Erika Lanner. “As soon as we found the right angle, we got the ball rolling.”

the ultimate experience. Pick up a souvenir at the shop, or try your hand at flower binding with the best in the business.

The banquet has been televised in Sweden since the 1960s and has since become a true cultural phenomenon. “Swedes have taken it to heart,” adds Lanner. “We celebrate it at home, in schools, care centres – all over the country.”

What would a banquet be without fashion? Some of the most memorable creations are on display: Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden made a statement for recycling in 2018, when she wore a dress also worn by her mother, the Queen of Sweden, several years earlier, in 1995.

Why not have a bite to eat in the bistro during your visit? Book a luxurious Nobel lunch alongside a glass of Champagne for

“We have fantastic chefs in our bistro,” continues Lanner. “Order something from one of the previous year’s menus from the banquet, and combine it with a tour of the exhibition.” Fashion statement

“We have highlighted a few creations with specific statements,” Lanners says.

What’s more, renowned photographer Anders Petersen shares a variety of his work at the exhibition too. “A more artistic perspective – one you don’t see that often,” says Lanner. “He was granted access to move freely at the banquet, catching angles that press photographers can’t.” There really is something for everyone here, be it fashion, the history of the event, or the culinary delights through the years. If your destination is Stockholm, be sure to pay a visit to the Nobel Prize Museum and the exhibition The Nobel Prize banquet – behind the scenes.

Web: www.nobelprizemuseum.se Facebook: NobelPrizeMuseum Instagram: @nobelprizemuseum

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Swedish Culture Special Escaping Memories by Saadia Hussain. Photo: Borås Konstmuseum

Devil Whirls by Alice Aycock. Photo: Ulrika Goransson

Where the city meets the arts However, and whenever, you arrive in Borås, you will be greeted by art. When you are gliding into the city by train, you can enjoy Jaume Plensa’s House of Knowledge. If you arrive by car, you will most likely bump into Walking to Borås, a nine-metretall statue of Pinocchio by Jim Dine. And if you step off the bus at the travel centre, you will overlook Alice Aycock’s Devil Whirls. The source behind these fantastic views is Borås Art Museum, a well-established museum focusing on international artists, sculptures and contemporary art. By Hanna Andersson

Borås is, because of all its public art constellations, known as the sculpture city. Around 100 sculptures are displayed within the city, introducing visitors and locals to culture on a daily basis, whether they think about it or not. “Our city is filled with art that’s available to the public, so you will consume art without even knowing it,” says Eva Eriksdotter, head of the museum. “The pieces House of Knowledge by Jaume Plensa. Photo: Maria Karlsson

are sometimes thought-provoking and can kickstart conversations, and they’ve become part of the city’s identity; we are often called the art city. Additionally, seeing our public sculptures and constellations can inspire people to come and see what we have inside the museum, too.” The museum features both Swedish artists and international talents. For example, in 2021, it displayed Janet Echelman’s spectacular constellation 1.78 Borås, a 100-foot-long creation hovering over Borås main square. 2022, meanwhile, will see them open up for Nathalie Djurberg’s and Hans Berg’s latest artworks. “What differentiates us from most museums is that we focus on the international scene and are lucky to have been given generous donations from our local business community. This has enabled us to invest in prominent art by some world-famous artists, which is truly special!” Eriksdotter enthuses. “We

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want to bring these fantastic pieces for everyone to enjoy.” Up-and-coming exhibitions at Borås Art Museum include Vidunderligheter, a Finnish contemporary art exhibition featuring seven different artists who explore existential questions including how we see the world, social and societal structures, and environmental perspectives in a humorous, poetic, bizarre way. The exhibition will be available from 14 May until 11 September 2022. In addition, the museum will this autumn once again unite the art within the museum with the outside world and is due to host an art exhibition about light – another chance to open up and combine art with everyday life.

Vibration by Xavier Veilhan. Photo: Sofia Carlenberg

Web: boraskonstmuseum.se Facebook: Borås Konstmuseum Instagram: @boras_konstmuseum

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Ian Berry with his work Paradise Lost from the series Hotel California. Photo: Debbie Bragg

Beloved legends in denim Layer upon layer of denim in different shades have become incrdible pieces of art. Until 1 May, you can experience Ian Berry’s denim magic in Material World at the Textile Museum of Sweden. By Malin Norman

Photos: Textilmuseet

Born in Huddersfield, a town with a long-standing textile tradition, Ian Berry is a creative force and influence in the denim industry and has been named one of the top 30 artists under 30 in the world. With scissors, glue and second-hand jeans, Berry cuts and layers the fabric to make photo-realistic portraits and scenes. As the first museum in Sweden to showcase Berry’s work on a large scale, the Textile Museum of Sweden presents Material World until 1 May. The exhibition includes, for instance, Hotel California, a series inspired by hotels and swimming pools in the western US state, where Berry cleverly catches the light and reflections on the water, as well as Giant Jacket and Lockdown Living Room, a recreation of his home during the pandemic. “I’ve been portraying social and contemporary issues and what better material to use than what I think is the material of our time, denim,” says Berry. “But now, I have been looking more at what

the material is and the stories behind it. The Textile Museum is the perfect location to show that.”

Everybody has a relationship to denim, and the exhibition appeals to a big audience, including people who might not normally visit galleries. Comments by fascinated visitors include: “the best exhibition I’ve ever seen” and “seeing it in real life is so much better!”.

From cowboys to punk culture In Denim Legends, Berry explores why we wear jeans, from workwear for cowboys to ‘50s movie stars, and later pop and punk culture. The celebration includes portraits of icons such as James Dean, Madonna and Bob Dylan – all playing a part in our love for denim. Denim Legends is an evolving installation where visitors are asked, ‘Who is your Denim Legend?’, and their opinions can shape the final piece. Included are also two guest designers who have interpreted Berry’s work. Dutch designer Jonathan Christopher has created garments inspired by the most notable bodies of work and Swede Lill O Sjöberg complements the denim stories and rock history with a drum kit and guitar in Twood (textile wood), a new sustainable material made of discarded jeans.

Photo: Debbie Bragg

Material World is showing at the Textile Museum of Sweden until 1 May 2022. The museum is located in the Textile Fashion Center on Skaraborgsvägen 3A in Borås.

Web: www.textilmuseet.se Facebook: Textilmuseet Instagram: @textilmuseet

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The story of Birgit Nilsson: The Dream. The Passion. The Legacy. Birgit Nilsson was an icon, a performer and, later in life, also a teacher. But first and foremost, she was a singer – a singer who came from a tiny place in Sweden and with a view to enter the wider stage; not knowing exactly how to get there, just that she definitely would. By Hanna Andersson

Photos: Birgit Nilsson Museum

Now there’s a museum based on her life, located in Västra Karup, the small town she is from. In fact, the museum is located on the very farm she grew up on. And here, at the Birgit Nilsson Museum, they are carrying on her legacy. “We have the honour of telling the story of Birgit Nilsson: how she lived, how she fell in love with music, and how she took over the world of 46 |

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opera. We are very fortunate to be able to carry on the legacy she left behind. Therefore, this year’s theme at the museum is ‘The Dream. The Passion. The Legacy’,” says Gitte Lindström-Harmark, manager at the Birgit Nilsson Museum. The Birgit Nilsson Museum is not an ordinary museum. The opera singer’s leg-

acy has been the foundation of a large organisation, which invites visitors not only to learn about her life, but also to follow in her footsteps and make their own dreams come true. “Even before she finished her career, she decided that she wanted to give back to the industry she was so passionate about. That’s why she created the Birgit Nilsson Prize, a prize awarded for outstanding achievement in classical music. This prize is now one of the most prestigious classical music prizes in the world. Beyond this, she also created the Birgit Nilsson scholarship, which is given to a young Swedish singer every year.”

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Moreover, the museum invites young singers to participate in masterclasses, something that wasn’t always a part of the plan – at least not for Birgit Nilsson herself. Lindström-Harmark explains: “Birgit was asked early on if she would be interested in teaching her skills at some point. But she was hesitant to the idea. She had herself experienced such poor teachers and didn’t want to risk becoming one herself. But one day, her friend Peggy Tueller at the Manhattan School of Music asked her to join one of her masterclasses. She decided that she was ok with answering some questions, and when she was asked by a student how it feels to hit a High C, she explained it in the most beautiful and detailed way. This was when she discovered that she had a knack for teaching and started giving masterclasses.” A stipend, farmlands and the Aida cake Every year, in August, the museum hosts The Birgit Nilsson Days. During these days, the museum presents the stipend, which is now worth 200,000 SEK, arranges masterclasses, and invites everyone to a grand concert involving hundreds of musicians and international singers. “This is truly what carrying on her legacy is about. Her passion for music and her dream to succeed make her legacy, and she has given us the opportunity to pass these on to others. Birgit used to say, ‘Achieve something you’ve always dreamed of, and you’ll experience something you never could have dreamed of’,” LindströmHarmark explains.

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when she started studying at The Royal College of Music in Stockholm in 1941. Here, she was taught how to master her rare talent, and how she could go on to become something extraordinary. But her big break came two years later, when she was called in as a substitute to perform Weber’s Der Freischütz at the Royal Swedish Opera in Stockholm. This opportunity is what, in the end, made her leave Sweden and conquer Europe, and then the rest of the world. She performed everywhere from the Met in New York to the Bolshoi Opera in Moscow, before once again returning to Sweden and ending her career, having achieved her dream. The museum is located close to the west coast in Sweden and is surrounded by farmland. It consists of Birgit Nilsson’s family home and the stables, barns and fields around it. The stable has been made into a cafe, which offers baked goods that Birgit herself used to make. Around the area, the museum has created a hiking trail where you can enjoy the scenery and listen to Birgit sing using the QR codes available along the way. “We knew from the very start that we wanted to have a café here at the museum, and it’s so wonderful that we can take Birgit’s legacy with us into the café as well. She loved to bake and created many recipes herself. The Aida cake is a must,” Lindström-Harmark smiles.

“In some way, she always knew she was going to make it. Every time she saw a falling star, she wished she could be a singer. One wish, her entire life – and it happened,” Lindström-Harmark concludes. Web: birgitnilsson.com/en Facebook: Birgit Nilsson Museum Instagram: @birgitnilssonmuseum

Photo: Mickael Tannus

A wish come true Birgit Nilsson took her first step towards her dream of becoming an opera singer

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The tourists’ choice: A destination out of the ordinary The four most popular museums in Sweden are predictably located in Stockholm. Number five on the list, however, might come as a bit of a surprise – in terms of both its location and what kind of museum it is. Found in the northern city of Umeå, this museum is dedicated to guitars. As is the case with many success stories, his did not follow an ordinary template. It began with a couple of brothers and their personal – and huge – interest in guitars. “It’s all about the twin brothers Samuel and Michael Åhdén, who have devoted their lives to guitars, amplifiers and related paraphernalia. They’ve spent 45 years creating the collection,” Fredrik Fagerlund, founder and head of PR at the museum, explains. This mecca for aficionados opened in 2014 but has already been crowned by international music magazines as the finest guitar collection in the world. And the visitors clearly agree: Guitars – The Museum’s

Teckningsmuseet is a museum dedicated to drawings and illustrations, showcasing Swedish and international artists in captivating exhibitions. The premises are beautifully located in Laholm, southern Sweden, and offer the perfect spot for cultural nourishment and inspiration, as well as a great day out for all ages.

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average rating on TripAdvisor is 5.0. This is quite an achievement after only three years. Additionally, the museum challenges gender stereotypes about men and guitars and appeals to all genders, with equal numbers of male and female visitors. What is the secret behind the success? To Fagerlund, the answer is quite simple: “We provide two tours daily, at 1pm and 3pm, often guided by the brothers themselves. The tours include stories that bring both laughter and tears to the visitors’ eyes. It’s about the brothers’ lives, their experiences of collecting, and of course also facts about the guitars,” he says. A trip to Umeå is clearly not complete without a visit to Guitars – The Museum. Web: www.guitarsthemuseum.com

Get drawn into creativity

2022 will be an exciting one for Teckningsmuseet. In addition to its 30th anniversary, two highly anticipated exhibitions will run simultaneously throughout the spring, to be replaced by a monumental summer exhibition. Tommy Sveningsson’s and Roj Friberg’s dreamy drawings inaugurate the year, focusing on surreal depictions of nature, landscapes and the human experience. “Our exhibitions are created to give visitors a holistic experience – Sveningsson was heavily inspired by Friberg’s drawings, and the exhibition will highlight these points to expand the knowledge and appreciation of their art,” says artistic director Frida Talik. The summer takeover will consist of work by the legendary artist Lasse Åberg. His playful and humorous take on pop cul-

By Pia Petersson Photo: Guitars – The Museum

ture has made him one of the most cherished Swedish artists in modern times, and his drawings will be on display throughout the summer.

By Nina Bressler

Photos: Teckningsmuseet

While the museum showcases established artists, it also encourages visitors to create their own art. The drawing studio is fully equipped with artist materials, paper and pens, welcoming inspired visitors to continue the cycle of creation and bring treasured impressions from their day back home. Admission to the museum is free, so what are you waiting for? Be inspired and bring forth the inspiration after a nourishing day at Teckningsmuseet in Laholm.

Web: www.teckningsmuseet.se Instagram: @teckningsmuseet

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The light installation Luminous Operating System by Mikael Ericsson illuminates Hallands Konstmuseum when darkness falls.

Tarik Kiswanson, Grandfather’s Blazer, 2022, and Assembled Opacity #4, from the exhibition Nest.

Metamorphosis and masterful artistry Hallands Konstmuseum is the art museum on the west coast in Sweden that serves as home to a collection brimming with work from some of the biggest Swedish artists along with unique historical artefacts. An exhibition calendar packed with exciting names is customary, making this a haven for hungry art lovers all year round. By Nina Bressler

Photos: Hallands Konstmuseum

Searching, hovering, transforming – these three words best encapsulate the work of artist Tarik Kiswanson, the main act of spring 2022 at Hallands Konstmuseum. Despite being born in Halmstad, the museum’s home town, his work is more commonly known abroad. After studying in London and Paris, he had work exhibited at a number of institutions around France, Centre Pompidou being a prominent example. Hallands Konstmuseum now proudly presents Kiswanson’s first exhibition on Swedish ground. Nest promises a spellbinding contemplation of the artist’s search for identity and origin, being of Palestinian descent, through sculpture, drawings and installations. What does the influence of time, culture and family do to one’s sense of self? The fabrics of life are interwoven with each other, metaphorically and literally, in an installation where garments descended from his fam-

ily, in addition to historic garments from the museum’s collection, are presented together and X-rayed. What does it reveal about him and life around him? “Kiswanson’s art is about a metamorphosis, about moving from one space to another and the lingering vacuum in between. How do we grasp the time of transcending into something else, from one identity, cultural and personal, to another? We’ve been following Kiswanson for many years, and to finally exhibit him on our premises is beyond exciting,” says Magnus Jensner, museum director. The permanent collection consists of some of the most influential names in Swedish art, as well as unique collections of textile, archaeological treasures and local photography. Halmstadsgruppen, Gösta-Adrian Nilsson, Olle Baertling, Thea Ekström, Söndrumskolonin and Lotta Antonsson are just a handful out

of many more names in the museum’s possession and on view in various constellations throughout the year.

Vårsalongen, the highly anticipated exhibition where emerging, locally connected artists showcase their work is opening in April. “We’re constantly expanding our rich history with a growing collection and through mind-boggling exhibitions by groundbreaking artists. Despite our relatively small size, we push boundaries and shape the world of art, not only in Sweden but also abroad. We’ve done so from the beginning and will continue the tradition for as long as we can,” concludes Jensner.

The exterior of the museum.

Web: www.hallandskonstmuseum.se Facebook: Hallands Konstmuseum Instagram: @hallandskonstmuseum

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Where myth meets truth Although the Viking era ended long ago, Stockholm’s dedicated Viking Museum continues to grow, evolve and attract. It’s the ideal place to learn more about this historical epoch, and a fantastic destination to feed curiosity – for adults and children alike.

Viking era, told in innovative and interactive ways. You’ll meet the Vikings through films, scenery, projections and sound effects, as well as archaeological objects.

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There are guided tours available throughout the day in both Swedish and English, led by the museum’s knowledgeable guides. Dressed in Viking gear to look the part, the guides will answer any questions you might have and share their specialised expertise. Many of them are professional archaeologists, which means that the tours will be slightly different depending on who’s leading it.

Photos: The Viking Museum

Recent years have seen a spike in the general interest in Vikings. This is hardly surprising, considering the wave of Viking-themed TV shows, films and games that have been released for the public to indulge in. For the Viking Museum, this is great from an awareness and diversity point of view, as the demand for Viking knowledge comes from all different directions. “Not only do we welcome children who are learning about Vikings in school, but we also have visitors from all over the world who are simply curious about this mythical period in Scandinavian history,” explains Anne Charlotte Ytter, museum director. 50 |

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An interactive experience So, who were the Vikings? Were they brutal, vicious looters, or is there more to their story? Pay a visit to the Viking Museum for a thorough introduction to the

The Norse mythology is present everywhere, and the museum’s many replicas let you explore life as a Viking with all your senses. “Visitors will learn about raids, journeys and mastery in ship building, but also about everyday life at the farm,” says Ytter.

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Ragnfrid’s Saga And that’s not all. For an even deeper dive into the world of Vikings, visitors are invited to experience Ragnfrid’s Saga. This 11-minute long adventure ride begins at Frösala Farm, where Ragnfrid and her husband Harald are introduced. Visitors are then taken on a remarkable trip where they witness plundering in the west and slave trade in the east. Ragnfrid herself narrates the saga, with a little help from sound effects, lighting and atmospheric sceneries. The historical value When asked about the importance of the Viking Museum, Ytter says that we should all know our history. “Of course, it’s not all about Vikings, and perhaps I’m biased, but I do have a special interest in this era specifically. It’s a definitive time in Nordic history, a time when the Scandinavian countries were formed and when Sweden began the process of uniting under one king and religion,” she explains. “It really is an incredibly important and interesting part of Scandinavian history.” Also worth mentioning is that this museum is in constant development. Ongoing research and discoveries within archaeology and history mean that the museum must update its offering regularly. This goes for any information and trivia shared, as well as the scenic exhibitions. “It’s important for a museum to grow in line with

society, and we strive to do exactly that,” says Ytter. And speaking of change, there are several new exhibitions planned for the Viking Museum, so keep an eye out to know what’s coming. Shop, eat and drink like a Viking The museum’s shop alone is well worth a visit. Ytter describes it as a treasure full of totally unique goods, including local handicraft and souvenirs produced by the museum itself. Everything is selected with care, adding to the overall experience of exploring the lives of Vikings. Hungry for more? Head to the museum’s own restaurant, which boasts stunning views over Stockholm. Named Glöd (which translates as ‘ember’), this eatery offers genuine Nordic food, in the form of both simple dishes like

salads and sandwiches, and à la carte. “Of course we also offer the chance to try mead, all Vikings’ favourite drink,” promises Ytter. “We’ve developed our own product together with a local brewery, and we offer mead tasting here at the museum,” she adds. There are also traditional Swedish cinnamon buns and coffee for those who just fancy something sweet. Ready to stand face to face with a Viking? Then steer your ship towards Stockholm and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Vikings. Web: www.thevikingmuseum.com Facebook: thevikingmuseum Instagram: @thevikingmuseum TikTok: @thevikingmuseum

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Oasis for local art history, craftsmanship and contemporary art By Malin Norman

The Rackstad Museum is a fascinating mix of local art history in Arvika combined with craftmanship and contemporary art. The Rackstad Museum outside Arvika dates back to the famous artist and sculptor Christian Eriksson, who grew up in the area, where the family had a farm and a furniture workshop. Although initially he intended to develop his furniture craft, Eriksson entered the world of art in France. While living in Paris, he built the home and studio Oppstuhage in the mid 1890s, as he wanted to move back home with his French wife Jeanne Tramcourt. This old building is now part of the Rackstad Museum, and visitors can see how the artist lived and worked. The museum hosts a permanent exhibition that shows early 20th-century arts and crafts, such as textiles, furniture and ceramics made by members of the Rackstad Colony. The small group consisted of friends Gustaf Fjæstad and Maja Fjæstad, Bjorn

Ahlgrensson and Fritz Lindström, and other artists and artisans who were active in the area at the time. The other exhibition hall houses the museum’s temporary displays of contemporary art. This year, the museum presents Arvika Konsthantverk – 100 år av lustfyllt

Photos: Rackstadmuseet

skapande, which tells the story of Sweden’s oldest cooperative for arts and crafts. “The Rackstad Museum is unique in that it has one foot in the world of art and the other in crafts,” says museum director Anneli Strömberg. “You can sense the heritage, experience the old furniture workshop run by Christian Eriksson’s family, see works by the Rackstad Colony, and discover new artists in the temporary exhibitions. Also, we have a wonderful garden, a shop and a café – it’s an oasis where you can relax after exploring.” Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11am to 5pm

Web: www.rackstadmuseet.se Facebook: rackstadmuseet Instagram: @rackstadmuseet

Swedish industrial history meets the future If you like to explore old tractors and construction machines, the Munktell Museum is going to be a veritable paradise for you. Here, you can climb up and step inside old, restored machines. But it’s not just about the past, as simulators and the latest VR technology bring you into the future. By Malin Norman

Photos: Munktellmuseet

The Munktell Museum in Eskilstuna is a popular destination for the whole family, including curious children who love tractors, people interested in steam engines, and real tech enthusiasts. The museum opened in 1991 in the heart of Sweden’s industrial district and is owned by Volvo Construction Equipment, one of the world leaders in construction machinery, dating back to engineer Johan Theofron Munktell. In 2008, it was named the world’s best museum in its category. The collections include around 200 objects that represent Sweden’s industrial history – everything from pioneering engineering to modern construction machines. In addition to the exhibition halls of around 3,000 square metres, 52 |

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central Eskilstuna, which has been renovated and now houses everything from culture and education to sports, music and food.

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the museum has a repair workshop and an auditorium with room for 100 people, plus facilities for conferences and events, and a popular café. “Here, you can follow the progress of Volvo Construction Equipment through nearly 190 years of innovation, see machines that have been restored, and even climb up and step inside,” says Jannicke Serneberg, museum director. “But we also show how history meets the future with interactive elements and digitalisation.” Visitors can try simulators and experience the latest VR technology, and there are lots of events throughout the year. The Munktell Museum is located in Munktellstaden, an old industrial district in

The Munktell Museum is open six days a week. Monday to Friday: 10am to 4pm Saturday: 11am to 4pm Sunday: closed

Web: www.munktellmuseet.com Facebook: Munktellmuseet Instagram: @munktellmuseet

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Legendary expeditions and local recollections Gränna, the picturesque little town overlooking the Vättern shores, is the birthplace not only of the candy cane, but also of one the great Swedish Arctic explorers, Salomon August Andrée. Grenna Museum showcases the Andrée expedition’s enthralling story as well as a unique Polar Centre and the area’s local history in captivating exhibitions all year round. By Nina Bressler

Photos: Grenna Museum

125 years ago, on 11 July 1897, three men – Andrée, Nils Strindberg and Knut Frænkel – took off into the air in a balloon from Svalbard, with a mission to map the unexplored North Pole. Heroic intentions ended in tragic outcomes, and their story is being exhibited through memorabilia, photographs and diary entries at the Grenna Museum. To mark the 125th jubilee, the museum has arranged a number of exciting events. “We are publishing an insightful, unique diary written by a man who was present during the preparations for the excursions, along with a perfect replica of an ice hut that the men built during their ordeal on

the ice. Weather allowing, numerous hot air balloons will be hovering through the air space,” says Håkan Jorikson, museum director. Their interactive Polar Centre entices people with unique stories from expe-

The balloon Örnen (‘the Eagle’) after it had landed on the ice in the Arctic.

ditions around the world. The rich local history is also displayed through various exhibitions, where the life of candy cane inventor Amalia Erikson is in permanent focus alongside temporary shows. Female photographers in the area, as well as Gränna during the 1960s, will be two of many focal points, clearly highlighting that what the town lacks in size, it makes up for in rich history. Web: www.grennamuseum.se Instagram: @grennamuseum

The entrance to Grenna Museum.

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An oasis in the heart of Copenhagen Enjoy inspiring special exhibitions, a superlative permanent collection of art and archaeological objects, and summer all year round at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. By Tina Nielsen

Winter garden as it looks year round.

Just a short walk from Copenhagen central station, you can surround yourself by palm trees, marble and thousands of years of art on a visit to Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, one of the most popular art museums in the Danish capital. The museum is built around the private collection of founder and Carlsberg brewer Carl Jacobsen, who had a vision of making art accessible to the people. Gain insight into the cultures of ancient Greece, Rome

Photo: Anders Sune Berg © Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

and Etruria, the root of European art, history of ideas and politics. Glyptoteket is also the home of Denmark’s largest collection of French 19th century and Impressionist art. Experience the works of artists including Manet, Monet, Degas and Sisley, as well as van Gogh, Cézanne and Rodin, concluding with Picasso and Gauguin. At the centre of the museum, made up of four different architectural buildings, visitors can sit and take in the winter garden – a beautiful oasis next to the café. Special exhibition: Suzanne Valadon The ever-changing programme of special exhibitions at Glyptoteket offers a different perspective from the permanent exhibition. Until and including the month of July, visitors will be able to enjoy the exhibition Suzanne Valadon – model, painter, rebel

Small island, huge welcome

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Web: www.glyptoteket.com

By Karen Gilmour Kristensen

On Nyord, a small island south of Zealand, Denmark, you’ll find Strågården (‘The Straw Farm’), a small B&B run by the couple Kenneth Lau Rentius and Marianne Stolt Petersen. Despite having only 32 permanent residents, Nyord welcomes around 300,000 guests each year. Marianne and Kenneth, who both have roots on the island of Nyord, decided to move to the island permanently in 2016. Two years later, they started renting out rooms. “Strågården is an old farm with a thatched roof and a modernised interior,” says Kenneth. “The building is listed, as is the case with several buildings on Nyord.”

and learn the story of a French artist who challenged the social norms of the times. Suzanne Valadon (1865-1936) defied hard odds to become a successful painter with her honest portrayal of women with confidence: strong bodies, curved shapes and pubic hair. She began her career and escaped poverty by becoming a model for the renowned Montmartre painters. Through her art she confronted social norms of the time and raised her own independence by becoming the first self-taught female to exhibit at Salon de la Nationale des Beaux Arts. With her art, gender, class and lifestyle, Valadon not only challenged her social destiny, but also contributed to creating new ways for the art with her uncompromising works.

Staying at Strågården doesn’t mean getting a key and minding your own business. The couple strives to make their guests feel welcome. “We take time to talk to our guests,” Marianne says. “Many return, and some of them have become close friends of ours.” Guests come from all parts of Denmark as well as all over Europe. The couple has even had visitors from Chile and Canada. Peace and tranquility are what keep guests coming. The island has a large nature reserve, and since there’s a car ban, you can go for undisturbed walks in the beautiful countryside. At night, it’s possible to see thousands of stars. The light pollution is very limited, which is why Nyord is a certified international Dark Sky Park and Dark Sky Community. “On the island, we have about

Photos: Strågården Nyord

five lamp posts in total,” Marianne explains. “In the dark, you can see another galaxy with the naked eye.” Kenneth, a certified Dark Sky guide, enjoys taking visitors on guided tours – a popular activity among the guests of Strågården. “The fact that you can lie on a sun lounger and see things that are millions of lightyears away is just incredible,” he says. “It’s hard to believe until you’ve seen it for yourself.”

Web: www.nyordbed.dk Facebook: Strågården Nyord Instagram: @straagaarden_nyord E-mail: mail@nyordbed.dk

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Unique Experiences in Denmark 2022

Photo: Sebastian Nils

Delighted by the nature, fascinated by the history Otters, sea eagles, badgers and kingfishers are just some of the animals you can experience in Kolindsund Natur on Djursland. This 2,800-acre nature area has a rich wildlife and an interesting history – a story you can partly experience with your own eyes when hiking or biking around the area as you’ll undoubtedly come across the three pumping plants from 1872, which are still fully functioning today. By Heidi Kokborg

Photos: Flemming Olsen

If you are someone who enjoys both fascinating history and stunning nature, a visit to Kolindsund Natur will be right up your alley. This hidden gem of a nature spot is flat as a pancake despite being in the heart of Djursland, an area otherwise known for its hilly landscape. Kolindsund Natur is two metres below sea level, which means that you have to cross dikes to enter the area. “It is almost like a mini-Holland. We have about 95 bridges in the area,” says Jens Prang-Andersen, one of the landowners of Kolindsund Natur.

tion at the National Museum. After losing huge amounts of land to both Germany and Norway in 1864, in 1872 it was decided that the lake had to be drained so that the area could be used for agriculture.

Kolindsund Natur is owned by 100 landowners, and despite a big part of the area being used for agriculture, there are still plenty of things to do and explore. Originally, Kolindsund Natur was a huge lake, and a myriad of treasures have been found in the area, some of which are on exhibi-

The pumping plants are still used to drain the lake to avoid flooding. At full capacity, the pumping plants can pump out 7,000 litres per second.

Natur are by foot, mountain bike or canoe. There are several marked hiking trails that take you around the area. The canals make for a peaceful canoe trip (just remember to bring your own canoe), and with permission, you are welcome to grab your fishing rod and catch your own dinner. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of a sea eagle or one of the rare kingfishers. “We have a very rich birdlife, but you can also spot otters, deer and badgers,” says Prang-Andersen.

“A British company built three pumping plants to drain the lake. They called it Pumpelaget Kolindsund. In the early 1920s, the British company sold Pumpelaget Kolindsund to landowners, and today landowners own both that and Kolindsund Natur,” explains Prang-Andersen.

The best ways to explore the beautiful nature and rich history of Kolindsund

Web: www.kolindsundnatur.dk Facebook: Kolindsund

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Møns Klint, must-see sights.

Luxury escape: nature retreat, lounge and lake view, sauna and outdoor bath.

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Villa Huno Gourmet Restaurant, from farm to table.

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Unique Experiences in Denmark 2022

Villa Huno Møns Klint: Unique glamping and lake spa The eco-luxury escape of glamping explores the experience of connecting to nature. Dive into the peaceful world of Nordic natural wellness retreats and glamping getaways – a prospect that is sure to excite any luxury traveller. By Kim Felecia Havtorn Ankerstjerne |

village consisting of a luxurious lakefront boutique hotel and gourmet restaurant, as well as the newly built glamping community next to the picturesque landscape of Jydelejet, where painters, ever since the 18th century, have found inspiration in the romanticism of the pure Danish nature.

As a guest at Villa Huno Glamping, you can spoil yourself at the luxurious Aborre Lake natural spa facilities both day and night. Enjoy a calm swim in the 19-metre-deep forest lake, relax in the warm sauna while enjoying the panoramic lake views, and refresh yourself under the outdoor showers next to the lake. During your stay, you will be able to attend outdoor yoga sessions, as Villa Huno invites yoga teachers from the local Møn community of mindfulness.

Fall asleep under thousands of stars shining through the stargazing roof windows in the exclusive tents, and wake up to nature humming with birdsong from the ancient tree tops. Guests are invited to spend their holiday in the heart of the nature of magnificent Møn,

Sustainability and environmental responsibility are among the core values of Klintholm Estate, and the boutique hotel and glamping therefore offer their guests certified organic and vegan products of soap, shampoo, conditioner and lotion from the Danish skincare brand Yroli.

Photos: Klintholm Gods

Located near the world-renowned attraction Møns Klint and embedded in the enriching nature and wilderness of Eastern Møn, the Villa Huno Glamping and Lakeside Spa is surrounded by floral fields: a place where hills, valleys, woods and lakes meet – a hidden gem in the heart of some UNESCO-listed locations and the Møn biosphere reserve. The historic Klintholm Estate has been owned by the Scavenius family for several hundred years. The seventhgeneration owners, Carl Gustav Scavenius and Inger Marie Kirketerp Scavenius, have established a small sustainable

in tents with views across either lake, forest or fields.

Villa Huno Glamping and Lake.

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Destination Denmark: An exclusive getaway In this exclusive getaway experience, the guests will be met with new luxury, where a superior boutique hotel business is embracing farm-to-table principles by working with its own as well as local craftsmen. The Klintholm Estate has its own orchard with fruit trees and bushes, fields of grazing Hereford cattle, and kitchen gardens where the chefs handpick herbs and collect the eggs from free-range chickens.

From the farm shop next to Klintholm Estate, you’ll be able to bring home the Klintholm Estate’s own Hereford delicatessen and local goods from, among others, the award-winning artisan diary Hårbølle Mejeri, as well as other organic products. Dark sky at Møns Klint.

Villa Huno Glamping and Lake Spa.

Møns Klint UNESCO and Biosphere Reserve.

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The area surrounding Villa Huno Boutique Hotel, Glamping and Spa offers endless opportunities of experiences, and Villa Huno Møns Klint is the perfect destination for hikers. The unique location allows you to walk from the hotel and glamping area to Møns Klint and explore the sights of the wilderness and uninterrupted landscape of Møn.

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Villa Huno Gourmet Restaurant & Boutique Hotel.

From farm to table:

Villa Huno kitchen garden.

Villa Huno Gourmet Restaurant The kitchen of Restaurant Villa Huno is anchored in the unique location and the breathtaking landscape that surrounds the area of Eastern Møn.

Villa Huno Restaurant is known for its craftmanship and high-quality gastronomy. With a belief in seasonal changes to the menus, the kitchen focuses on simple dishes that allow the individual ingredients to speak for themselves, in a taste sensation that embraces the core value of using their own and local products from Møn. A symphony of greens from the kitchen garden combines with fruits and berries, either from the restaurant’s own fields or from other nearby hedges, beaches and woods. In addition, the Klintholm Estate has its own 100 per cent grass-fed Hereford cattle, supporting the Klintholm Estate’s rewilding and sustainability effort.

On the spacious terrace of Villa Huno Restaurant, guests can enjoy late spring, hot summers and early autumn evenings, with wines from the family heritage of Château Kirwan in Bordeaux, or the delicacy of the refreshing qualities of natural wines, complementing the gastronomical experience. Villa Huno is proud to be among the first gourmet restaurants in the world with a Natural Wine Sommelier certificate.

Web: villahuno.com Facebook: Villa Huno Instagram: @villa.huno

Klintholm Estate Hereford cattle.

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Left: Løgstør is located in the middle of Denmark’s largest fjord – the Limfjord – and it is precisely the fjord’s strengths in the form of mussels and maritime cultural heritage that have formed the basis for healthy development. But without a solid voluntary commitment, it would never have succeeded. Here is one of the city’s volunteer groups having a meeting on Fredrik VII’s Canal. Right: Nordic Clinker Boats traditions have been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Bottom: At the Mussel Festival, the mussels are typically cooked over a campfire.

Creating experiences in the city of mussels Løgstør is a prime example of a volunteer success story. Here, local volunteers took responsibility for the future of the city by completely transforming it and giving it a new identity as the city of mussels. By Nicolai Lisberg

Photos: Limfjordsmuseet

Where some see obstacles, others see opportunities. That is exactly what happened, and is still very much happening, in the town of Løgstør in the northern part of Denmark. Back in 2008, the town faced a challenge. Everything was getting more centralised and online shopping really took off, so it was difficult to keep both inhabitants and shops around. The urban ecosystem was threatened. Neither the centralisation nor the internet seemed to be slowing down – so instead of trying to fight it, the local residents got together and started focusing on their historical heritage and the local aspect. How could they make the area more attractive 60 |

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to themselves as well as tourists? How could they make Løgstør better? “The sense of volunteerism and pioneering spirit in terms of taking responsibility for the town is incomparable, and it’s the people living here who are to be acknowledged for the turnaround the place has experienced over the last two decades,” says Anders Bloksgaard, museum director at the Limfjord Museum, which has cooperated on many of the new initiatives in the city. One of the first things was to capitalise on the Limfjord and all it has to offer, in particular its blue gold: the mussels. The

first Saturday in April each year is dedicated to a Mussel Harvest Party, where one tonne of mussels comes in by boat in the old harbour. They are then transported by a horse-drawn carriage and prepared by the city’s chefs, so that visitors can taste the delicious delicacy for free. “During the summer, we also have a Mussel Festival, which connects gastronomy to art and music. It lasts for three days, and during those days the harbour is full of people and hosts several different concerts,” says Bloksgaard.

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This year, the Mussel Festival will take place on 8-10 July. A promising future You could say that the blue gold has given Løgstør a whole new identity, which is why Løgstør is today known all over Denmark as the city of mussels. But it’s about much more than mussels; Løgstør has become a vibrant place full of cultural events. “The Mussel Harvest Party and the Mussel Festival became a catalyst for more events, such as our annual Jazz Festival, our concerts in the harbour during the summer, a Maritime Festival and much more. Løgstør used to be a town focused on industrial matters, but now it’s known for its many experiences and events,” says Bloksgaard. The transformation has not only resulted in a better area for its inhabitants and tourists, which was originally the ambi-

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tion. It has also had the effect that more people now want to move there. Some of the people who have taken part in the festivals are even buying houses in the area – a great success, but that does not mean that Løgstør is now resting on its laurels. “The only reason we have succeeded is because so many people have helped out in making the town better. The locals have pulled together and helped out with everything, but we have also had investors who, in some cases, have invested their own money to keep the development going. It’s great to see what the town has become today, but we all still remember the situation 15 years ago, so we will continue to keep improving it,” says Bloksgaard, who predicts an exciting future for Løgstør: “The activity created throughout almost two decades has meant that more boats are now passing through the harbour, which is why the municipality has decided to expand the

Unique Experiences in Denmark 2022

harbour. They too have seen the potential in the town and how the water surrounding it creates something rather unique.” He adds: “We are also working on reopening the King Frederik VII’s Canal, so one day we will be able to have boats sailing by like we did 150 years ago. We keep our feet on the ground, but I can’t help thinking that the future of Løgstør looks very promising.” Mussel Harvest Party: Saturday 2 April Mussel Festival: Friday to Sunday 8-10 July Maritime Festival: Monday 9 September

Web: www.muslingebyen.dk Facebook: Muslingeby Instagram: @muslingebyen

Top left: The annual Mussel Harvest Party always takes place on the first Saturday in April, kicking off the season in Løgstør. Bottom left: The city has many culturalhistorical sites of value, in particular the Limfjord museum and King Frederik VII’s Canal. Right: Beautiful wooden ships for the Maritime Festival.

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Unique Experiences in Denmark 2022

Feel the music – vibrant city life, fairytale islands, and a wild dolphin Listen to local musicians while sipping locally made world-class whisky at the docks. Go island hopping in the South Funen Archipelago. Explore cosy alleys with quirky shops. Indulge in culinary temptations and enjoy scenic beach attractions less than a 15-minute walk from the city centre. Svendborg no doubt makes for a memorable weekend getaway – and when you go, don’t forget to stop by the harbour and say hello to Delle, Svendborg’s most cherished, playful resident. By Heidi Kokborg

| Photos: VisitSvendborg

Nestled in the South Funen Archipelago, Svendborg boasts somewhat of a fairytale-like location. Here, you’ll find charming cobbled streets with one-of-a-kind boutiques, idyllic houses and historic cottages that look like something straight out of a film, world-class culinary experiences, locals that know how to enjoy life, and live music like none other. “We have quite the music scene here in Svendborg. People are constantly jamming and playing music in alleyways, back yards, bars and in the streets. We have live 62 |

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With more than 700 live concerts each year, there certainly is something for everyone. Whether you are a jazz lover or a folk music enthusiast, you dig rock music or just can’t get enough of blues, you’ll find a concert or festival here that is right up your alley. The sweetness of life

music every single night. It gives the city a distinctive, creative vibe,” says Anja Mia Haas, event manager at VisitSvendborg.

Svendborg is a city that is buzzing with life year-round, from the creative docks area at the harbour and a vibrant city centre with quirky boutiques in the Latin Quarter, to cosy cafés where you can easily linger for hours while sipping coffee and simply watching the lively city life unfold. “With its cobblestone streets, specialty stores and an abundance of cafés and restaurants, Svendborg offers a city experience with a little twist. It is a really charming city with a very rich cultural life,” says Haas.

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An absolute must when visiting Svendborg is treating yourself to local food. Whether you dine in a restaurant, stop by a farm stand or visit one of the many farm shops, your taste buds will be pleasantly surprised. “The quality is very high, and a lot of the food is locally grown and harvested. Sometimes, we find new and exciting ways to use the ingredients or do a spin on traditional recipes, like the internationally recognised Skarø ice cream that produces sustainable luxury ice cream with innovative ingredients such as seaweed, birch sap and lactic acid bacteria. We also have world-class distilleries that keep winning international awards. We are in many ways a blessed area. In fact, once people move here, they tend to never move away again,” says Haas, herself once a newcomer, with a smile. Svendborg truly is a place for bon vivants. So much so, in fact, that it was the first Danish municipality to be Cittaslow certified. Cittaslow originates from Italy and is, in its essence, all about slow living, the enjoyment of life, and excellent craftsmanship. It is a way of life that Svendborg fully embraces. Island hopping with a dolphin If during your visit to Svendborg you need a little break from city life, the opportuni-

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ties are plentiful. The South Funen Archipelago consists of 55 islands and islets, and what better way to explore some of them than by island hopping? “Just a 30-minute ferry ride from the buzzing city life, you can experience the tranquillity of the islands. They offer extraordinary experiences in nature with mesmerising coastal landscapes. Each island has its own history worth exploring,” says Haas. What will make your ferry ride even more memorable is Delle, Svendborg’s very own dolphin, who is a pure ray of sunshine with his playful nature. He will ‘wave’ you off when your ferry or boat sets sail – he just can’t help it – and he is playful by nature and a pure thrill to be around with.

Unique Experiences in Denmark 2022

and different way to explore the beautiful nature. Or how about exploring sea life by canoe or kayak? If you want the full nature experience, you can choose to spend a night in a shelter. “Svendborg is ideal for an active holiday, whether you are craving amazing nature or culinary and cultural experiences. Svendborg will move your heart and mind,” Haas enthuses about the abundance of opportunities for living the good life in the South Funen Archipelago. Web: www.visitsvendborg.dk Facebook: VisitSvendborg Instagram: @visitsvendborg

Photo: Jesper Stig Andersen

“Delle came from Scotland two years ago. He is wild, but he has really become a part of the city, and he brings so much joy to everyone living in and visiting Svendborg,” Haas smiles. When you are done exploring the beautiful islands – although with 55 of them, will you ever really finish exploring? – more experiences in nature await. There are hiking and mountain bike trails aplenty, which take you through the hilly landscape with gorgeous ocean views. You can also go horseback riding, a fun

Photo: Andreas Mørk

Photo: Knud Mortensen

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Rosenborg. Photo: Peter Nørby

The Royal Collection: Treasures and castles of the Danish Royal family Visiting the three castles in the Royal Collection is a fantastic opportunity to experience some of the extraordinary treasures and history of the Danish Royal Family, past and present. Entering the breathtaking palaces is like taking a step back in time, while the current exhibitions bring you back to the present day. By Trine Jensen-Martin

Photos: The Royal Collection

“This is a very special year for Denmark and for us,” explains museum director Thomas C. Thulstrup. “In 2022, we celebrate 50 years of sovereignty for HRH Queen Margrethe and the 50th birthday of Crown Princess Mary.” The Royal Collection is marking the occasions with two special exhibitions honouring these remarkable women. Three very different castles Rosenborg castle in central Copenhagen was built in the early 17th century as a 64 |

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summer residence for King Christian IV. For over 400 years, the Royal Danish Lifeguard has protected the most precious treasures of the Kings and Queens of Denmark at Rosenborg, including the crown jewels, so stunning that they alone are worth a visit. The castle itself is remarkable, and the surrounding Kongens Have (‘the king’s garden’) is magnificent all year round. Rosenborg truly is one of the most striking remaining palaces of the Danish Royal Family.

Amalienborg is one of the four palaces that make up Christian VIII’s Palace, and it has been the main residence of the Royal Family in Copenhagen since the late 18th century. Here, you can visit the Queen’s Reference Library, look inside Christian X’s study, visit the Fabergé Chamber and, finally, see the Gala Hall,

Amalienborg, Christian VIII’s palace. Photo: Peter Nørby

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which is still to this day used by the Royal Family on special occasions. Koldinghus, meanwhile, is over 750 years old and was for many centuries the most important royal castle in Denmark. It was an intentionally menacing presence towering over the city of Kolding, guarding the country’s southern borders. The castle burnt down in 1808 and was for years reduced to a romantic ruin. Today, however, Koldinghus is a modern museum and host to large international exhibitions. It attracts visitors from all over the world, to experience the splendour of the building’s prize-winning restorations, the exhibitions, the view from Kæmpetårnet (‘the giant tower’), and lunch in renowned restaurant Madkælderen. The language of jewellery “The Royal Collection is more than the castles and the treasures within,” explains Thulstrup. “It is a glimpse into the lives of the Danish Royal Family, both historically and present day.” This is particularly evident in two current exhibitions. The extraordinary A Queen’s Jewellery Box – 50 years on the throne told in jewellery, at Amalienborg, celebrates the golden jubilee of the Queen, her life and reign. It tells the story of the young princess from ascension to today through her own deliberate use of jewellery. “The exhibition highlights a particular form of communication for the Queen that many may not be aware of,” says Thulstrup. “To the Queen, jewellery is not just a decorative element that has to match a given dress or outfit. When she wears a particular piece of jewellery, it contains a reference to these memories, and nothing is left to chance when the Queen chooses what jewellery to wear.”

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Unique Experiences in Denmark 2022

A long line of strong women Koldinghus also houses a special exhibition about Crown Princess Mary and four previous crown princesses of Denmark. This is a celebration of the Crown Princess’s 50th birthday and her role. “We are focusing on both the official role and the opportunities that follow,” Thulstrup says. “Through unique historical and private material and, crucially, the words of Crown Princess Mary, it becomes clear that the crown princesses in the Glücksborg dynasty are incredibly strong women.” The exhibition explores what it means to be a part of a Royal family, what the role requires of you privately and publicly, and the many opportunities to influence and to do good. All these women have made a difference to the lives of many people and to Denmark. The current Crown Princess is an exceptional example of this, so it is fitting that the exhibition is in celebration of her 50th birthday, as well as a look back through the history of the Royal Family that she joined in 2004 before becoming the Crown Princess of Denmark. The Royal Collection offers a unique way of experiencing and learning more about the cultural institution that is the Royal Family, and how it has shaped Denmark. The historic and current perspectives of the exhibitions make Rosenborg, Amalienborg and Koldinghus exciting and relevant places to visit time and again.

Koldinghus aerial shot.

A Queen’s Jewellery Box – 50 years on the throne told through jewellery 14 January to 23 October 2022, Amalienborg Museum, Christian VIII’s Palace Mary & Kronprinsesserne 1 February to 30 December 2022, Koldinghus Tickets to exhibitions are available online.

Web: www.kongernessamling.dk Facebook: Koldinghus, Rosenborg, Amalienborg Instagram: @koldinghus @rosenborgcastle @amalienborgmuseum

Mary & Kronprinsesserne exhibition poster.

A Queen’s Jewellery Box exhibition poster.

One such piece on display is the brooch she wore on her ascension to the throne on 15 January 1972, a now-iconic horseshoe-shaped brooch, which was a gift from her father to mark his signing of the revised Constitution that made her his successor. March 2022

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Calling all gourmet lovers If you are a true foodie, chances are you will have heard of the world-famous oysters from the Limfjord. With Seaside Safari, you get a unique opportunity to pick your own oysters from the ice-cold water and learn how to cook them perfectly. It is a true haven for gourmet enthusiasts. By Heidi Kokborg

Photos: Jyllandsakvariet

Imagine standing on a beach overlooking the beautiful Limfjord, enjoying a fresh oyster with just a hint of Stauning Whisky. This is the exact experience you will get with Seaside Safari, which has been offering tours such as oyster, seal and dolphin safaris for 14 years now. “It has never been more popular to get out into the wild and spend time in nature. The oyster safaris in particular are popular among gourmet lovers as we have some of the best oysters in the world here in the Limfjord. We have guests coming all the way from New Zealand and the US to taste the oysters,” says Michael Madsen, owner of Seaside Safari. Standing in the ice-cold water in waders while picking your very own oysters is an experience you will remember for life. “Some of the oysters we eat raw with a bit of whisky. Others you’ll learn how to prepare on a grill in different 66 |

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ways. And the best part is that you get to bring home oysters aplenty, so you can cook your hand-picked oysters for your friends,” says Madsen. In addition to oysters, the Limfjord offers a plethora of other seafood. If you are lucky on a seafood safari, you might catch a lobster or a couple of crabs. The entire time, an experienced guide will be there to provide you with tips and tricks, and when you get back to the beach, you’ll cook your freshly caught seafood together with a chef.

If you are looking for a family event, Seaside Safari also offers seal and dolphin safaris, which are real hits among kids. Here, you can experience 300-kilogramme seals resting on a sandbar in the sun or happily splashing around in the sea. More recently, dolphins have been spotted in the area, too. “We have a big group of dolphins that migrated here from Scotland. It’s just a very spectacular feeling, seeing these animals up close,” says Madsen.

Cooking oysters Eat your oysters raw with just a little bit of whisky for a supreme taste. Grill them with just a touch of wild herbs or a bit of garlic butter, sour cream and breadcrumbs for a delicious treat. In the spring, serve your oysters with strawberries for a fresh and tasty starter.

Web: www.jyllandsakvariet.dk Facebook: JyllandsAkvariet Instagram: @jyllandsakvariet

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Jewellery made in Norway with love and laughter Colourful enamel jewellery, laughter and impeccable talent could explain why everyone from film producers to the Norwegian royals knows of Opro. After generations of experience, it’s safe to say that no one does it as they do. By Celina Tran

Photos: Opro

June Rasch-Olsen sits in an old, small office, surrounded by paperwork and a busy phone. Like most other days at Opro, there is a lot to do. If you enter the door behind her, you’re taken back in time. Soaked in history and soul, the walls, work stations and tools are still firmly in the ‘70s. “Sometimes, old is better,” Rasch-Olsen shrugs, smiling. “It’s just so charming. Whenever I come back from our short breaks in the summer, I’m hit by the smell of my childhood.” In fact, Rasch-Olsen has spent almost every summer holiday since she was four 68 |

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in the workshop, and it has remained the same since her father, Ole Petter Rasch-Olsen, established it in 1976. Opro, which is named after its founder, is one of few remaining enamel-based jewellers in Norway and the country’s largest of its kind. Since the beginning, it has been a space of passion, talent and a love of beauty. “My dad says he was bad at school and needed to do something with his hands, which is why he became a goldsmith,” Rasch-Olsen, who’s also a goldsmith, says. “I started helping him when I was 19, and I’ve been here since.” Beauty to last generations Like sunsets, the calm sea and a high-quality photo of starry galaxies, the vibrant colours and lustre of enamel jewellery make it a sight for sore

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Made in Norway

eyes. As the producer of said jewellery, Rasch-Olsen explains that they want their art to last generations. “Sustainability is incredibly important to us,” she says. “We prioritise quality so that our jewellery can be passed down generations, which it often is.” Rasch-Olsen excitedly explains that customers like to tell them about the jewellery they’ve passed down to children or grandchildren. Opro owes its loyal customers to the timelessness of the work. “We’re happy to have many regular, returning customers who genuinely care and enjoy our work, rather than waves of people who only buy it because it’s popular right now. I pride myself on the beautiful jewellery we make here.” Locality is another important value for Rasch-Olsen and the Opro team. All the jewellery is handmade and produced in Norway, and they only work with workshops based in the country. “We also don’t sell anything from our workshop. There are a few things in the web shop, but nothing that you’d find in a jewellery shop. We mostly sell through goldsmiths all over the country, because we want Norwegian artisans to thrive.” From castles to film productions Opro is a name most jewellery lovers know. Their clients include the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Norwegian Castle, but these are not Rasch-Olsen’s proudest achievements. On a warm spring day not long

ago, the producers of the new version of Three Wishes for Cinderella, starring famous Norwegian pop star Astrid S, approached Opro. “They brought the hazelnuts from the film and asked if we could make them into jewellery, which we did,” she says, grinning widely. “It wasn’t our usual enamel work, but it was still incredibly fun. We love working with big clients and being a part of such great projects.” The demand for their beautiful enamel isn’t only restricted to Norway; Opro has also made a name for itself abroad. The work has been sold everywhere from New York to the renowned EPCOT centre in Florida, where it saw great success. Even since the executive decision to localise the business, international customers can access some of the unique jewellery in the web shop. Still, Rasch-Olsen recommends everyone to visit jewellery shops in Norway to help boost local business, too.

Passion and laughter Despite the hectic days, Rasch-Olsen and the Opro team are truly passionate about their work. Though their area of focus is on the production of enamel jewellery, they find other, fun things to do as well. “We’ve repaired and restored old things, which was fun,” she says proudly. “We’ve also cracked the art of enamelled glass.” Laughter, fun and music echo through the walls at the Opro workshop. According to Rasch-Olsen, enjoyment is an important part of the job. When asked if she intends to pass the torch on to her children, she shakes her head. “Only if they want to. I love what we do, but having fun in your job is important. I’ll only do this until I tire of it. That being said, I’ve been here since I was a child, and I don’t have any complaints yet.” Web: www.emaljesmykker.no

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Prioritising children’s comfort and style Most people either have or know someone with sensitive skin. For new parents, it can be difficult to find clothes that both feel comfortable and look good. With Babymood, there’s no need to choose one or the other. By Celina Tran

Photos: Babymood

Anna Nishori was an accountant for almost 20 years, but after the birth of her youngest daughters in 2017 and 2018, she left her comfortable, stable job for a new adventure. Both of Anna’s girls were diagnosed with atopic skin, and she found that there were few skin-friendly clothing options for her babies. Thus, the mother of four decided to make some options herself, and in 2020, Babymood was born. “I established Babymood at the beginning of the pandemic, which means that there have been challenges,” Anna says. “But I’m proud to say that we’ve been able to do incredibly well, both in Norway and internationally.” Both quality and style Among Babymood’s main priorities are the quality and comfort of children. The use of certified organic cotton ensures that the clothes feel soft against the child’s sensi70 |

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tive skin. “Our designs are also unique in the way that they allow you to easily dress and undress the little ones without causing discomfort,” Anna explains. When she was looking for clothes for her children, one of Anna’s main issues was that she couldn’t find skin-friendly clothes that also looked nice. Babymood’s collections consist of fun, childish and timeless designs, inspired by the outdoors. “We’re heavily inspired by nature, and we use a lot of earthy tones,” she says. “I’ve spent a lot of time making sure that the clothes look amazing.”

ents all over the world need high-quality clothes for their sensitive babies, so it is perhaps no surprise that Babymood’s products have been in high demand. Since the brand’s inception in 2020, Babymood has had very few quiet days. “We get orders from all over the world,” says Anna. “We’re especially excited about department stores everywhere from the US to Switzerland buying our products. We can’t wait to grow and expand even more.”

Among the brand’s most popular items are rompers, jumpsuits and bodysuits. International demand Sensitive skin is not uncommon in young children, as they are naturally more prone to skin irritations than adults are. Par-

Web: www.babymood.no Facebook: babymood Instagram: @babymood_no

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Bioform: Arctic, clean and healthy The Arctic nature of Norway is not only a sight for sore eyes, but also serves as one of the cleanest sources of natural, medicinal treatment. With over 20 years of experience, Bioform has become one of Norway’s biggest health supplement producers.

of our success to our great, hard-working team, and making their work environment good is always a top priority of ours.”

By Celina Tran

Despite the company’s large growth over the last few years, Solstrand hopes to expand even more. “We’re doing pretty good for ourselves on both the Norwegian and international markets, so I cannot wait for the world to see the next thing we have in store,“ she hints with a smile.

Photos: Bioform

Trond Solstrand has always had an interest in health and health products, and when he saw an advertisement for Bioform, he decided it was time to take a leap of faith. A safe and secure job in investment was left behind, and Solstrand started a brand-new adventure. Since then, he has handed knowledge down to his daughter, Cathrine, who has helped take Bioform to new heights. As of today, their products can be found in the biggest health shops across Norway. Clean, local production “We utilise northern Norwegian nature as a source of ingredients for our supplements, because our nature is cleaner and healthier than most places,” Cathrine Solstrand says. Bioform sources most of its raw ingredients from local areas. The Bioform Chaga,

a medicinal mushroom that has been used all across the world, is handpicked by locals. The omega-3 they produce comes from northern Norwegian fish. “Local products, people and business are incredibly important to us. If it’s possible, we will always source our ingredients here,” Solstrand explains. “There’s nothing cleaner than using short-travelled, hand-picked and natural ingredients.” Thriving in a time of defeat The pandemic has seen many people and businesses suffer its consequences, but Solstrand is proud that Bioform has not only survived, but excelled, in a time of great difficulties. “We genuinely want to help and provide the best products to our customers, and they often give us good feedback on our service,” Solstrand says. “Bioform owes a lot

Web: www.bioform.no Facebook: bioform.no Instagram: @bioform_as

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NNNN: Innovative audio technology meets Nordic design Nowadays, streaming platforms mean that access to endless music is only a simple tap away. Yet, headphones and plastic speakers are a far cry from the immersive experience of live music. In Norway, NNNN is bucking the trend by reviving the quality of the horn speaker, reinterpreting it for modern-day scenarios and designing speakers that enable music experiences very much out of the ordinary. By Celina Tran

Photos: NNNN

Audio quality is about more than just music. In the new technological world, most of us have come to rely on high-quality audio. The pandemic meant that millions of people saw their workspaces turn into home offices, with video conferences and phone calls being their main interaction with the outside world.

tion wouldn’t happen without audio,” says Torkel Mellingen, CEO and co-founder of NNNN. “Whether it is a music stage, a club, a bar or even your favourite restaurant, or an important corporate presentation, we develop technology that enables experiences.”

“Some might think that the video is the most important part of a video conference, but we all know that the conversa-

NNNN blossomed from an idea that had no intention of becoming what it presently is. As Mellingen was about to

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The journey

leave his role as VP of Design at Cisco, a company developing video conferencing systems, he asked a colleague from the audio department for sound system recommendations for his living room. Rune Skramstad, CTO and co-founder of NNNN, after seeing a sketch of Mellingen’s living room, suggested a custom sound system. A few months of brainstorming and sketches later, Mellingen and Skramstad debuted their first piece of work together over some pizza and beer. “Rune has been designing speakers since the young age of ten, which is incredibly impressive,” Mellingen praises his friend and co-worker. “He jumped at the opportunity to drag me down his little audio rabbit hole. Shortly after the first

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Made in Norway

they affect the planet – that you design for a circular economy,” Mellingen says. “We want our speakers to be the most sustainable solution.” All of NNNN’s products are produced in Norway. Additionally, their designs ensure good sound quality without taking up as much space as traditional loudspeakers, thus reducing the number of vehicles needed for transportation to live events.

beer, he asked me if we should make something we could sell.” Soon, two became four. Co-founders Lars Eirik Mobæk and Lars Johan Hereid joined the club, and in 2019, NNNN was officially born. “The N stands for Norway, and there is one of them for each of the four of us,” Mellingen explains, chuckling. “But the best part is that the four Ns next to each other resemble soundwaves.” Speakers that excel in every space NNNN seeks to produce sound systems with “crystal clear audio reproduction”. They also focus on versatility and flexibility, and unlike that first custom speaker Mellingen and Skramstad made, all NNNN speakers are designed to sound good in a variety of spaces and scenarios. “We use horn speakers and focus on applying acoustic principles to our designs,” says Mellingen. “Form follows function, after all.”

er spaces, such as video conference rooms, bars and commercial spaces. “We value quality over anything else. We want all our speakers to reflect the art that musicians put their heart and soul into when they create their music.” Sustainable solutions The brand focuses on long-lasting quality and timeless designs in order to ensure sustainability. People tend to reach for something better once they grow tired of something, which is why NNNN wants to make the best option out there. Without compromising on quality, the NNNN speakers are more energy-efficient and sustainable. “When you produce physical products, it’s your responsibility to consider how

“We are constantly seeking more eco-friendly solutions. We are fortunate to have a network of Nordic suppliers that share our values, which has proven imperative in keeping track of sustainable solutions in production and manufacturing,” Mellingen adds. ”We’ve also noticed that others in the industry are starting to pick up on what we do and change their own ways. It’s fun to inspire and be part of a change.” NNNN is Eco-Lighthouse certified – a widely used environmental certification scheme in Norway that is recognised by the EU as equivalent to EMAS and ISO 14001 in public procurement.

Web: nnnn.no

Most brands start small. NNNN, however, took on a challenge and began producing sound systems for the largest spaces. “Making speakers that seamlessly cooperate and reach up to thousands of people has been challenging, but a lot of fun,” says Mellingen. “Our equipment can be used for both large and small concerts, which is both financially beneficial and very practical.” Throughout the pandemic, musicians all over the world were confined to smaller spaces. As a result, NNNN decided to develop their first studio speaker, which can also be used in other similarly smallMarch 2022

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CEO Morgan Horori looking at seedlings.

Vertically grown super food Sustainably growing enough healthy food is a global challenge, and new ways of thinking and methods of cultivating are crucial steps towards the future. Vertical farming is one of the solutions to growing plant-based foods quickly, with less water, space, energy and ecological impact. By Alyssa Nilsen

Photos: Marius Johansen

Norwegian company Grønt fra laks is one of the companies developing this technology and method further. Where most vertical farmers use artificial fertiliser, Grønt fra Laks has chosen to tap into a neglected source of organic fertiliser: fish sludge – or, salmon faeces. “Each year, one million tonnes of fish sludge is produced at Norwegian landbased fish farms,” says COO Marius Johansen. “But in Norway, the sludge is not being used for anything sustainable. Fish sludge from open fish farms goes back into the ocean, where it overfertilises the ocean floor. The sludge that ends up on land is shipped abroad to countries that do use it as fertiliser.” Grønt fra laks has invented a brand-new method of utilising the sludge in vertical farming: a hybrid between hydroponics and aquaponics. Seedlings are planted 74 |

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on cellulose mats and rockwool cubes, and plants grow in water rather than the traditional soil. This allows for a stacking system where plants are grown in racks eight shelves high. “A commercial 250-square-metre greenhouse will have a cultivation area of about 1,250 square metres,” Johansen says. “Since we stack our production, we have eight times the cultivation area.” Nutritious water with fish sludge fertiliser is pumped through the system, constantly providing nutrients to the plants with very little water waste. This also allows for rapid growth in the plants. Sprouts, herbs and microgreens take between four and eight days from when the seeds are planted until they are delivered to customers. Larger greens, like lettuce, take approximately a month to grow. The rapid growth means that the nutritional value of the plants is

higher than in traditionally grown greens, due to the nutrients in the seed not being consumed by the plants while growing. Originally developed by NASA for use at space stations, hydroponics and aquaponics might prove to be key factors in solving world hunger and allowing sustainable farming in areas where traditional farming is challenging. Located in the north of Norway, with its cold climate and long dark winters, Grønt fra laks benefits from this technology, providing healthy and sustainably grown greens to customers while driving the technology forward to benefit even more people.

Web: www.grontfralaks.no

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Made in Norway

Uncompromising enjoyment of sound “Our mission is to create hearing protection that users enjoy wearing, and which provides real protection for the sense of hearing,” says Tom Trones, chief product officer at Minuendo. By Åsa H. Aaberge

Photos: Minuendo

The world can be a noisy place. Minuendo wants you to enjoy the sounds without damaging your hearing. Founded in 2018 by a team of four with experience in acoustics, hearing protection and product development, Minuendo creates solutions for professionals and consumers alike, ranging from musicians to construction workers.

to close, while keeping the sound quality natural and clear,” says Trones.

The first Minuendo Lossless earplugs were designed with musicians and concert-goers in mind. “The number of professional musicians suffering from hearing loss and tinnitus is higher than in any other profession,” says Trones.

Not only for musicians and music lovers

Forget the foamy little sticky things you get for free at concerts; Minuendo earplugs offer an experience that’s quite the opposite. “Our earplugs are designed for a great live listening experience – without compromising on safety. The technology allows the wearer to adjust the amount of sound on a scale from open

Thanks to patented membrane technology, Minuendo earplugs achieve a frequency response on par with custom-moulded musicians’ earplugs. All Minuendo creations are designed and manufactured in Norway and sold globally.

Now, Minuendo is expanding its repertoire with a new Smart Alert earplug. “We use much of the same approach and technology, aimed towards a new audience: the construction industry. Like musicians, industrial and construction workers are severely affected by hearing injuries,” says Trones. Typically, in this industry, ear protectors tend to be worn on top of the helmet instead of directly on the head. Therefore, Minuendo has developed an innovative pair of earplugs featuring active noise

monitoring that continuously checks the amount of noise that enters the ear. Accordingly, the plugs warn the wearer of harmful sound levels. Users receive daily text messages or emails with reports on their exposure. The messages also feature suggestions on how to decrease the exposure. “A lot of people struggle to judge when noise becomes harmful. That’s why our earplugs will feature an objective warning system. They can be used while communicating, and wearers avoid feeling isolated in environments where it is important to be aware of your surroundings,” Trones says of their latest innovation, the Smart Alert earplugs.

Web: www.minuendo.com Instagram: @minuendosound

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Made in Norway

MSM Norge has developed liquid food supplements that are absorbed much more quickly than ordinary tablets or capsules.

New horizons for Norwegian food supplements Food supplements have always been a difficult area to work within in Norway. Because of the need to safeguard consumers, the rules and regulations regarding what can be classified as supplements and what is considered medicine are very strict – and the same is true for how much of active ingredients producers are allowed to include in their goods. By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen

Photos: Stine Østby

Because regulations have traditionally been much stricter in Norway than in many other places, many consumers prefer to order their food supplements online rather than buying more expensive Norway-produced goods. That’s been the case despite online commerce being much less safe for consumers than the Norwegian home market. Strict regulations had opposite effect “The effect of the Norwegian policy was often the opposite of what was intended,” 76 |

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reflects Monica Tomassen, one of the two people running MSM Norge. “Strict regulations are intended to guarantee the safety of consumers, but isn’t it less safe to order a product from abroad, which you don’t necessarily know that much about, than to buy a supplement you know is safe in a shop here in Norway?” Fuelled by a desire to change Norwegian food supplement regulations, Tomassen and her husband Marius Blomstervik started MSM Norge in 2014. Both are

experienced in the field of health food consultation and Blomstervik also has several years’ experience from the health food business. In his previous positions, Blomstervik managed to change the classification of common food supplements such as goji berries, AFA-seaweed and American ginseng from medicine with stringent restrictions on sales, to food supplements that can be sold in health food shops. Bureaucratic challenges Building on that experience, MSM Norge has, since 2014, been working both to change Norwegian regulations and to develop new products in order to offer Norwegian consumers a safer and better choice of food supplements. The result is a range of new food supplements

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that were previously either not allowed in Norway or classified as medicine. All MSM Norge’s products are suitable for vegans and are produced at a local factory in Drøbak, where the company is based. It’s not been easy for Tomassen and Blomstervik to get where they are today, however. Tomassen explains that working with Norwegian bureaucracy can be a real challenge. “It really takes time to bring about change. Sometimes our contacts in the administration don’t answer or they fail to respect their own time frames. Things really take time, and that can be very stressful and difficult for small companies like ours,” she stresses. And yet, Tomassen and Blomstervik’s dedication has brought about results. Not only has the company contributed to raising the levels of vitamins D, C and B12 allowed in Norwegian supplements; they have also obtained a change in classification for a number of products that were previously labelled as medicine. These include MSM, a sulphur supplement; Maca, which is a Peruvian root often characterised as a superfood with

strong vitalising effects; ashwagandha, an Indian plant with significant antistress features; and melatonin. Liquid melatonin is paving the way for new products The latter two quickly became the young company’s best-selling products. In particular the melatonin filled an obvious need on the Norwegian market, not least because MSM Norge developed a liquid version. “Liquid melatonin is absorbed much more quickly than capsules and tablets; it starts to have an effect after only ten minutes as the absorption happens directly in the mouth,” explains Tomassen. “Many people struggle with poor-quality sleep and stress, and we’ve received a lot of feedback from clients who say that our products are really helping them.” Liquid melatonin has experienced exponential market growth since it was first launched in 2019, and as such it has strongly contributed to the company’s growth too, not least since many clients prefer the liquid version to the more traKSM66 is a supplement with Indian ashwagandha.

Liquid supplements are absorbed much more quickly.

Marius Blomstervik and Monica Tomassen.

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Made in Norway

ditional tablets. In 2020/21, MSM’s liquid melatonin was awarded Product of the Year by Norwegian healthcare shops, while MSM Norge was dubbed Vendor of the Year by the same chains. Tomassen explains that she is proud of what they have achieved so far, not least because of the feedback from clients. “Our end goal is to help Norwegian consumers improve their health,” she says. The success has given the entrepreneurial couple an appetite for more, in particular in terms of new liquid supplements. “We are planning to expand on our range of liquid food supplements in the future,” Tomassen concludes.

MSM Norge supplies all major health food chains in Norway, in addition to running their own web shop.

Web: renmsm.no Facebook: MSM Norge Instagram: #renmsm

Maca is a highly energising Peruvian root.

Liquid melatonin, MSM Norge’s bestseller.

RenMSM, a sulphur supplement, was MSM Norge’s first product.

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Made in Norway

Wooden bird. Photo: Hans Marius Mindrum

Promoting Sámi culture through interiors and design ‘Alva’ is Sámi for courage and vigour, both of which make up the foundation of a family-owned company based in Murgos/Mørsvikbotn in Nordland, Norway. With roots in the Sámi heritage, Alva wishes to spread both the indigenous culture and contemporary design.

“I’m from a Sámi area in Karasjok, and I currently live in a Sámi area in Nordland,” says Berg. “I’ve always wanted to make useful Sámi utility products.”

By Celina Tran

Currently, the Alva team is developing new lamps, a conscious decision for those who inhabit areas north of the Arctic Circle, where the nights are long and cold. “The light is very important this time of year, as it is an especially dark period of time,” explains Horndal. “We draw inspiration from the different

Alva was formally established in 2014 by husband and wife Geir Anders Hætta Berg and Sissel Horndal, but has been a work in progress for almost a decade and a half. With backgrounds in woodwork, typography, design and illustra78 |

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tion, the duo uses their creative abilities to promote their surrounding area and its culture. Alva produces and sells all sorts of Sámi-inspired utility items, from décor and coasters to interiors and lamps.

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Made in Norway

sources of light in nature: the northern lights, the starry night sky, the sun and the moon, and all the reflections from snow and ice. The contrast between light and darkness makes the winter light both precious and powerful.” Promoting Sámi culture The Sámi people are a Northern European indigenous group of people. As of 2020, it was estimated that there are between 50,000 and 80,000 Sámi people living across Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. Out of the four countries, Norway has the highest indigenous population. Both Berg and Horndal are passionate about Sámi culture. Berg has, in recent years, travelled around the country to lecture and teach school children practical aspects using a bow and arrow, which has always been utilised by the Sámi people. He has made the bow and arrow in a traditional way, and explains the importance of working with traditional woodworks and crafts alongside modern techniques. Horndal, Alva’s head of design, is the author and illustrator of several Sámi-themed children’s books and has previously been nominated for the Nordic Council’s Prize for Children and Young People’s Literature. Her book, Sun lamp. Photo: Hans Marius Mindrum

Coasters. Photo: Sissel Horndal

Máttarahka’s Journey, has been published in several languages and explores Sámi myths about Sámi divinity and human creation, starting with a trip around

the sun. “The sun is central in Sámi culture. So, it may not come as a surprise that one of our most popular lamps is a symbol of the sun,” says Horndal.

Fox lamp. Photo: Geir Anders Hætta Berg

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Made in Norway

Máttaráhkkás Journey. Artwork: Sissel Horndal

Through Alva and its products, the founders wish to promote Sámi culture, history and tradition. “Our products take inspiration from our forests, the mountains and the sea. At the very foundation of our work is our belonging and ties to Sámi heritage and culture,” says Berg. “We also take great pride in showing off our local area and community.” Passion, locality and environment One of Alva’s goals as a company is to create a robust pillar that supports its local community. “I’m not only incredibly proud of what we’ve made, but also our ability to create more jobs in our community,” says Berg. “I look forward to hopefully creating even more.” Alva’s utility items are designed by Berg and Horndal. In addition, the pair lead their talented team in the making and production of the items, all of which are produced locally with love. “All our products show off our local Norwegian surroundings and our Sámi heritage, and thus it only makes sense that we create 80 |

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them locally as well,” says Berg. Local production and recyclable materials are part of the Alva team’s attempts to reduce their carbon footprint.

Stall at a Sámi market. Photo: Inga Marianne Berg Henriksen

Web: www.alva.no Facebook: alvaform Instagram: @alvaform

Antler coaster. Photo: Hans Marius Mindrum

Rocking reindeer. Photo: Geir Anders Hætta Berg

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Håskog: new organic skincare A molecular biologist with a passion for distillation of essential oils, a Portuguese landscape architect who fell in love with Norwegian nature, and an old, abandoned farm with a long history of experimental farming. Combine these and you get Håskog – a new Norwegian company producing organic skincare products. “For years, I dreamed of moving away from the city to distil essential oils,” explains Ina Hviding, who runs Håskog together with her husband, Gonçalo Liberato. Hviding says that she learned distillation on the Greek island of Crete and describes the process as “modern alchemy”.

The Covid-induced lockdown gave the couple the push they needed to put their plans into motion. They found the farm Håskog on the internet and instantly knew that the place in south-western Norway was their spot. The farm has a special history; one of the previous owners was passionate about trees and planted or tested more than 2,000 different plants on his terrain. After taking over, Hviding found several plants on the property that she could use in her products. Håskog produces luxurious creams as well as shampoo and body oils. All products are certified Norwegian Made and are available on the internet and in selected local stores.“All of our products are so pure that, in theory, they can be eaten,” asserts Hviding. The link to food is not accidental.

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By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen

Made in Norway

Photos: Håskog

The growing interest in the use of locally grown plants in both medicine and beauty products is a continuation of a trend that started in the kitchen and made Scandinavian cooking, with its focus on local ingredients, world famous. Besides expanding on her product range, Hviding is planning to hold workshops at Håskog for everyone interested in learning about distillation of oils and how to make better use of the magnificent nature that surrounds us. Stay tuned!

Web: www.haaskog.com Facebook: Håskog Instagram: @haaskog

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Restaurant of the Month, Finland

A true homage to Finland’s culinary traditions Finnjävel offers diners a unique restaurant experience, diving into Finnish culture with its food as well as interior design. Located in the heart of Helsinki, the restaurant – which was awarded a Michelin star in 2021 – combines fine dining with traditional Finnish cuisine in an unprecedented way.

was a pity that it was all coming to an end. After some deliberation, we decided to stage a comeback, and Finnjävel opened again in 2019,” says Tuominen.

By Ndéla Faye

Finnish design, from floor to ceiling

Photos: Nico Backström

Finnjävel, literally translated as ‘Finnish devil’, is a pejorative term used in Sweden in the 1950s and ‘60s in reference to Finnish immigrants. “At that time, Finns mass-migrated to Sweden in search of a better future. As is so often the case, adapting to the new life was difficult. In the modern context, we at Finnjävel can now take the term as a compliment. For us, it is synonymous with ‘sisu’, a Finnish concept of the combination of stamina, perseverance and ambition, seasoned with a pinch of megalomania,” says Finnjävel Salonki’s restaurant manager, Otto Sovelius. 82 |

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Finnjävel was founded when chefs Henri Alén and Tommi Tuominen, both heavyweights on the Finnish culinary scene, realised that they knew embarrassingly little about the history of Finnish food. Originally, Finnjävel was meant to be a two-year project, after which the restaurant would close. By the time Finnjävel’s doors were due to shut in 2018, the restaurant had risen to a level of success that took even the owners by surprise. It had garnered a reputation as a muchloved restaurant among Finnish and international diners alike. “We thought it

Finnjävel is located in Helsingin Taidehalli (Kunsthalle Helsinki), an art exhibition space and landmark building in the architecture style of the Nordic classicism of the 1920s. The restaurant’s décor – designed by the renowned Ateljé Sotamaa – has been carefully thought out to showcase and celebrate Finnish design and craftmanship. “Everything from the floor to the ceiling, down to the tiniest detail, such as the plates and cutlery, is Finnish design,” says Sovelius. Finnjävel consists of two restaurants on the same premises: Sali and Salonki, a

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fine-dining restaurant. Both restaurants use Finnish ingredients and traditional Finnish cooking methods, such as curing, smoking and fermenting. The food is largely based on meat, fish, vegetables, dairy and eggs, and the recipes used at the restaurants have been passed down through generations. “Our dishes are based on the type of food that Finns would have eaten 100 years ago. We are inspired by Finnish home cooking and the brilliant inventiveness Finns showed when having to cook with limited ingredients,” says owner Timo Linnamäki. A sophisticated dining experience Finnjävel Salonki (The Salon) was awarded a Michelin star in 2021, as well as a Service Award for the best restaurant service in the Nordics. The restaurant offers diners a refined and intimate setting for fine dining. The menu, offering either five- or eight-course dinners, takes

guests on a culinary journey through Finland’s centuries-old food culture. Giving an indication of the slight tongue-incheek style of the place, the wine packages, served alongside the restaurant’s wine list, are divided into ‘good wines’ and ‘better wines’. On the other side of Finnjävel is Sali (The Hall), which is the place to enjoy a more casual – but still elegant – lunch or dinner. “We have dug deep into the past in order to create the future of Finnish cuisine. Finland’s location between Russia and Sweden has created quite a unique culinary culture, which differs from the other Nordic countries,” Linnamäki explains. The restaurants serve very traditional Finnish dishes – familiar to most Finns through the kinds of meals often served at school. On the menu are some of the most commonly loved or hated school meals, like ‘läskisoosi’, a traditional stew made from pork belly, fried with onions

Restaurant of the Month

Finland

and flour, and ‘tilliliha’, which is meat slowly simmered with vegetables and seasoned with dill, among other things. “Many Finns usually have a strong reaction when they hear of these dishes. We have taken these old recipes and brought them into modern times – and hopefully we can help people revisit their memories in a new light,” Tuominen explains. For international guests, Finnjävel offers an all-encompassing way to delve into Finnish culture. “We’re serving truly authentic Finnish food. This is as traditional as it gets. That, coupled with the unique setting and being surrounded with Finnish design, is the icing on the cake. It’s a must-visit when in Helsinki,” he concludes. Web: www.finnjavel.fi Facebook: Finnjavel Instagram: @finnjavelhelsinki

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| Hotel of the Month

Denmark

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Tranquillity in luxurious surroundings Located on the quiet northern coast of Bornholm, affectionately known as Denmark’s ‘Sunshine Island’, Stammershalle Badehotel offers tranquillity and gourmet food in an unrivalled location. By Tina Nielsen |

variety of menus, including tasting menus of four and seven courses, based around locally sourced ingredients that change with the seasons.

Photos: Stammershalle Badehotel

Between the towns of Gudhjem and Allinge, Stammershalle Badehotel stands on the edge of the Baltic Sea, and with a history of more than 100 years, the iconic yellow building has atmosphere and charm in spades. Guests return year after year for the expansive sea views and nature experiences around the hotel and on the island. “The hotel is in a historical old building where guests can enjoy a special kind of calm and peace while taking in the unique views and surrounding nature,” says hotel director Susanne Vang Søgård, who moved to Bornholm last year and has since fallen in love with the popular island. Former bear caves and a bathing pier The building has a past as the summer residence of a German merchant who later started flying tourists from Berlin to the island in the 1930s, while the Troll Forest at the back of the garden was once the site of a zoo housing lions, bears,

monkeys and flamingos. Today, Søgård’s husband, Ulrich, offers guided visits in the area around the hotel, including the old caves, once home to the bears.

On Sundays, the popular Sunday bubble brunch is served with Champagne for a luxurious breakfast experience.

The sea, with views to the island of Christiansø in the distance, is a central part of any visit to Stammershalle. “The bathing pier is just 150 metres from the hotel, and taking a dip in the Baltic Sea is something all guests enjoy,” says Søgård. Luxury accommodation and a culinary treat The main building houses 16 rooms, and under construction at the moment and due to open on 1 April is a wing with 14 luxury rooms. “The new rooms will all have their own terrace with beautiful views of the sea and the sun rising over Gudhjem, and will include all facilities to make the stay special,” says Søgård. Guests at Stammershalle are in for a culinary treat, too. The restaurant serves a

The 2022 season at Stammershalle Badehotel starts on 1 April, and the hotel will remain open until 2 January 2023. During Christmas and New Year, special all-inclusive packages will be available for those who wish to celebrate the festive season in a luxurious setting in Bornholm’s nature.

Web: www.stammershalle-badehotel.dk

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Museum of the Month

Faroe Islands

Museum exterior. Photo: Ingi Joensen

Installation. Photo: Beinta á Torkilsheyggi

Painting by Ruth Smith. Photo: National Gallery of the Faroe Islands

Museum of the Month, Faroe Islands

Listasavn Føroya: Experience the essence of the Faroe Islands This national gallery offers a unique opportunity to encounter the striking landscapes and seas, exquisite nature, and fascinating culture of the islands, as well as a current perspective on important global issues. By Trine Jensen-Martin

Letting art use its voice

The museum in Torshavn is a top attraction for many visitors, housing art from the 1830s up to today, both more traditional landscapes and a variety of contemporary pieces. “At our museum, you get to experience different elements of the Faroe Islands, from east to west, north to south,” explains museum director Karina Lykke Grand.

soaring skies, the people and what they believe in. “It is a chance to get to know the islands, their land and their people through art,” Grand continues. The permanent exhibits share the best of art from the Faroe Islands, with one room dedicated solely to expressions of the landscapes and the sea.

This place gives an insight into many different layers of Faroese culture: its history, its breathtaking landscapes,

Faroese art often focuses on themes connected to nature and the land, with artists frequently using home-grown materials from wildlife found on and around the islands, such as sheep’s wool, in their work.

Guided tour. Photo: Beinta á Torkilsheyggi

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landscapes of the islands, including interpretations of how industry is affecting nature and what the implications are of these changes taking place.

Changing landscapes

Alongside the permanent collection there are regularly changing exhibitions, which reflect the museum’s awareness of what is going on in the world right now. One exciting current exhibition focuses on the changes of the different

“A picture can sometimes say more than a thousand words,” says Grand. “And we try to use the voice of art to highlight important issues relevant to both the Faroe Islands and the world as a whole.” The importance of social and ecological responsibility and engagement with the world is evident at Listasavn Føroya, which makes the museum so much more than a collection of artefacts, and an important place to visit. Not only will you have a wonderful experience of the culture and artistic heritage of the Faroe Islands, but through the art they exhibit, you get the chance to connect to bigger and broader issues that are current and pertinent to us all. Web: art.fo Facebook: Listasavn Føroya Instagram: @listasavn_foroya

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Museum of the Month, Denmark

The David Collection |

Photos: Pernille Klemp

The David Collection banks onto the picturesque King’s Gardens. Perhaps that’s why, though petite, its elegant halls assume the same regal air as the castle next door. Inside, exhibitions of European and Danish Early Modern Art present paintings, sculptures, furniture and silverware from the 18th through to the mid-20th centuries. But The David Collection’s real mic-drop attraction is The Collection of Islamic Art: an exquisite 7th to mid-19th century cache, spanning from Spain to China, and from Uzbekistan to Yemen – unparalleled in Denmark. In tandem with these troves of classics, the museum hosts special photo exhibitions. “The special exhibitions offer a contemporary take on some of the same themes as the permanent collections,” explains one of the museum’s curators, Peter Wandel.

Niels Nedergaard: Photographs from Cairo This spring, to complement The Collection of Islamic Art, the museum will display a selection of photographs and paintings created and collected by the late Danish painter Niels Nedergaard, during his seven-year stay in Cairo.

Museum of the Month |

Denmark

Left: The Collection of European 18th Century Art: 18/2021, Martinus Rørbye, The Caravan Bridge at Smyrna, 1838. Middle: From the exhibition Niels Nedergaard: Photographs from Cairo. Photo: Courtesy of Niels Nedergaard. Right: The Islamic Collection: 34/1981, A Prince with his Beloved. India, Amber or Jaipur; first half of 18th century.

In Copenhagen – the cradle of art and design in Scandinavia – one intriguing museum stands out amongst the rest. By Lena Hunter

Niels Nedergaard: Photographs from Cairo depicts – via roll negatives and scattered slides and prints sent home to family and friends – the artist’s life in the Egyptian capital from 1979 to 1986. “This is the untold story behind a cult talent in Danish art,” says Wandel. Ancient art to modern design Nedergaard’s primary medium was painting. He was prolific and his striking patterned designs – based on Islamic geometry and the neon palettes of Cairo’s nightlife – were alien treasures to the ‘80s Danish design scene. “It’s instantly recognisable as ‘80s Danish,” explains Wandel. “He borrowed from the architecture of an old city but used the flashy palette of pop culture.” The patterns became hot commodities on the interiors and textiles markets. “You’ve likely already seen his work without knowing his name. It was everywhere – but it originated from a humble life in Cairo,” says Wandel. A deep dive into the ‘80s zeitgeist In 1986, Nedergaard moved back to Copenhagen. He tragically died of AIDS the following year, at the height of his career.

“He plays several cultural roles: he was a ‘post-hippy’ who travelled to seek inspiration; he contributed to the look of fashion in Denmark; and he was one of the first victims of this era-defining disease,” summarises Wandel. So, Nedergaard not only tapped into the ‘80s zeitgeist but bridged Middle Eastern art and local Danish taste. Visitors to Photographs from Cairo have the rare opportunity to experience the same – seeing, through his perspective, the acclaimed permanent display of historic Islamic art. The special exhibition – curated by Johan Zimsen Kristiansen – will be accompanied by a catalogue on the artist’s life and work, edited by Wandel. Both Photographs from Cairo and the permanent collections are free to enter. That’s what’s unique at The David Collection: an intimate deep dive that ties together the classic and the contemporary, which larger institutions can’t mimic. Niels Nedergaard: Photographs from Cairo 11 March to 4 September Free admission Address: Kronprinsessegade 30-32, 1306 København K Phone: +45 33 73 49 49 Web: www.davidmus.dk Facebook: DavidsSamling

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Photo: Shutterstock

Education Profile of the Month, Norway

Affordable training for an effective workforce It’s a two-way thing: skilled and confident employees equal a happy employer. With the ever-increasing demands for a knowledgeable workforce, it has never been more important to have the right skills for the job any of us are assigned to carry out.

She wanted to make it possible for people on lower wages to upskill and feel valued within the workforce.

By Karin Blak |

Together with her two sons, Martin Halvorsen, now educational leader at Din Kompetanse, and Andreas Halvorsen, a professional golfer, she set up Din Kompetanse in 2018. The aim was to specialise in certified courses for adults who had no qualifications. The training needed to be affordable and accessible and provide the absent qualifications for adults who wanted to develop practical skills directly applicable to their working environment.

Photos: Din Kompetanse AS

Hilde Halvorsen, partner at Din Kompetanse AS in Norway, knows exactly how to provide accessible education for both individuals and organisations. With training ranging from restaurant waiting to pedagogy, and from sales to leadership, Din Kompetanse has a course to suit the subject, and the budget, at the level needed to improve performance and production. 88 |

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From noticing a need to successfully providing a service With a background in psychology, and having added a master’s degree in leadership and pedagogy, Hilde worked in education for upwards of 25 years. During this time, she was concerned to notice a group within Norwegian society that was missing out on job opportunities because of a lack of qualifications.

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process, through to successfully completing the exam and achieving their desired certificate. For Din Kompetanse, it is important to have teachers who build encouraging relationships with their students. “I want us to be known as the company where students feel cared for and walk away having gained skills, knowledge and confidence,” says Hilde. Turning an obstacle into an opportunity Shortly after Din Kompetanse’s inception in 2018, the Covid-19 pandemic provided an obstacle that meant that faceto-face teaching was no longer possible. However, Hilde and Martin were quickly able to move their courses online in order to carry on providing quality education and training packages, retaining the affordability and making the courses easier to access from most places with an internet connection.

By providing courses at a price that people could afford even on a low salary, the business saw impressive demand in the first year: over 250 people signed up, and since then the company has gone from strength to strength. In 2021, only two and a half years after setting up the company, they welcomed 600 participants – and with a 96 per cent pass rate, Hilde’s pride in her students and teachers is tangible.

By doing so, they turned an obstacle into an opportunity to provide training to a wider audience. Developing their very own e-learning portal in collaboration with one of their trusted suppliers has also enabled them to tailor-make courses for companies with specific requirements. The future of Din Kompetanse The next stage in development has already begun. Growing their portfolio of courses to include accredited Level 4 di-

| Education Profile of the Month |

Norway

ploma courses, they are sticking closely to their values. And the courses are provided not only in Norwegian; Din Kompetanse now has the ability to deliver some of their courses in German and English too, with further languages coming on board as they grow. Their plan for the future? With 12 teachers already recruited, they are hoping to find additional teachers with specific qualifications, people skills and a caring attitude towards their students. As Hilde puts it: “For such a young company, we have achieved a lot in a short time.” She knows that it’s important to take it one step at a time, making sure that everything is done within their principles of inclusivity and affordability. Asked about their success, Hilde reflects: “I have been good at selecting the right people who have the skills that I don’t.” She appreciates her staff and, with her refreshing attitude to people management, goes on to add that “we all make mistakes sometimes. It’s human, and if anything goes wrong, we’ll fix it. Everyone is important; we are special because we are responsive and take our commitment to all our customers seriously.” Web: www.dinkompetanse.no Facebook: DinKompetanseAS Instagram: @dinkompetanse

Their values While making the numbers add up is important for any company, it isn’t Hilde and Martin’s main interest. The three main principles that drive this small and efficient company are: quick response time, inexpensive education and personable training. Hilde’s teachers, all highly qualified in their subject areas, are specifically selected for their ability to engage with students on their level, while also supporting them at every stage of the training

Martin Halvorsen.

Hilde Halvorsen.

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The historic ramparts, Fredericia.

Experience of the Month, Denmark

Naturpark Lillebælt: Perfect synergy between nature and culture We go to the countryside or the seaside on a quest for nature and adventures, or we visit a city to soak up its history and culture. Imagine, however, if you could do all of that at the same time – enjoy exciting experiences of wildlife and the sea, fresh air and plenty of culture, too. In Naturpark Lillebælt you can.

development consultant at Naturpark Lillebælt. “We want to entertain and educate, making our visitors feel included in what we do.”

By Trine Jensen-Martin | Photos: Naturpark Lillebælt

There is a real desire to encourage, to inspire and educate, and this is very much a destination for everyone – for families, couples, individuals, young and old alike – and a visit is about more than the experience of being at one with nature or immersing oneself in the area’s cultural history.

The largest of its kind in Denmark, this exceptional maritime nature park encompasses sea, fjord, coast and land areas. Naturpark Lillebælt is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, as well as historic cities, and is a collaboration between local communities in three municipalities and the experience and tourism industry, scientists, local volunteers and other stakeholders. Everyone contributes to the conservation of the marine and wildlife here, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the area and actively participate in the efforts to sustain this beautiful part of Denmark. 90 |

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At one with nature “There is so much to explore here,” says Niels Ole Præstbro, executive secretary of Naturpark Lillebælt. “The biodiversity in the sea is unique, and the area has one of the world’s densest populations of porpoises,” he continues, passionately. Whale safari is a popular experience, alongside bridgewalking, seaweed safari, kayaking and diving, and this is also a crucial breeding ground for a variety of birds and eagles. “What you learn when coming here is important,” says Verena Obertopp Knudsen, communications and

Cultural and historical attractions “There are fascinating connections between nature and history,” Præstbro explains. “You can link the history of Denmark to the landscape.” One of the features of Naturpark Lillebælt is the three towns in it, each with its own history to tell. In Fredericia, you’ll find

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Fredericia Vold, historic ramparts built in the 17th century, now a much-loved green city park. In Kolding, you can visit the magnificent 750-year-old castle of Koldinghus and the modern museum of art and design, Trapholt. Middelfart is a cosy, traditional maritime town, offering a glimpse into the country’s seafaring past. One of the main attractions here is CLAY, the museum of ceramic art. Slow Travel “There are many ways of exploring the nature park,” says Knudsen. “If you want a sea-based experience, you can kayak from place to place and spend the night in shelters or hotels.” ‘Slow Travel’ is a relatively new way of exploring the world, an increasingly popular way of travelling that chimes in with the essence of Naturpark Lillebælt. The focus is on places off the beaten track, using public transport (or indeed kayaking), and supporting local produce and businesses. A crucial aspect of Slow Travel is to give back, and this is a key factor in the cooperation between locals and tourists. “There are many ways to get involved in what we do,” Knudsen says. “Of course, you can donate money,” Præstbro interjects, “but you can also be active in supporting sustainability,” he continues. There are organised rubbish collections in the nature park, a wealth of choices for eating and staying locally, and you can support the porpoises by either buying a porpoise teddy or going on a whale safari. Holidaying has never felt this good – you give something back in return for an unforgettable experience.

Visitor centre and café at Skamlingsbanken, Kolding.

Porpoise safari, Little Belt.

Responsible tourism “Naturpark Lillebælt is for both locals and tourists,” says Knudsen, and it is evident that the efforts and support of the local communities are crucial for the nature park. “We can only save the seas and the nature if we work together,” Præstbro adds. And this is at the heart of the nature park, which is much more than its separate parts. Each city has its own rich history, and the sea and the land their own outstanding beauty, but it is through collaboration that this place becomes a truly unique way of experiencing Denmark and Danish culture. Everything comes together to provide experiences of nature, the wonderful marine and wildlife, the local cuisine and the culture. In the process, locals and visitors alike support biodiversity and sustainability, which is crucial to the survival of the marine and wildlife, as well as tourism. This is responsible

tourism at its best, and a nature park for everyone. Whether you’re hankering for sea-based activities, hiking, contemplation in or learning about nature, or delving into the history of a city, Naturpark Lillebælt has something for you and is well worth a visit.

For more information about Naturpark Lillebælt, please see: Web: www.naturparklillebaelt.dk Facebook: naturparklillebaelt Instagram: @naturparklillebaelt

For suggestions of places to visit, things to do, where to stay or where to eat in the three municipalities, please visit: www.visitfredericia.com www.visit-kolding.com www.visitmiddelfart.com

Strib Lighthouse, Middelfart.

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Design Studio of the Month

Stian and Hjørnesteinen at exhibition.

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Painting Hjørnesteinen. Photo: Stian Valebjørg

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Norway

Design Studio of the Month, Norway

Design at the intersection between art and function A renovated family farm in Fyresdal, Norway, is home to design brand Valebjørg Design. Working within a wide range of art and design, Valebjørg Design aims to counterbalance the modern culture of fast, discardable fashion and design. By Alyssa Nilsen |

Photos: Valebjørg Design

A family affair, Valebjørg Design consists of artists and brothers Andreas and Stian Valebjørg, as well as their dad, Jarl. Having started out in other professions, working as a carpenter and a 3D animator respectively, the brothers decided in 2013 to pursue their passion for arts and crafts and founded Valebjørg Design. Andreas works as a craftsman building furniture, toys, sculptures and art installations. Stian is responsible for visualising and designing the items before they’re built. He is also a fine arts artist, making prints, drawings and oil paintings. Together, their blend of artistic vision and expressions, and a keen eye for detail and function, makes for one-of-akind items designed to last generations. “Stian draws and realises the customers’ ideas, whereas my talent is bringing the drawings and sketches to life through building and construction,” says CEO Andreas Valebjørg. “We make a good team.”

ulately measured, crafted and executed. The suitcase is for sale but can also be rented to provide that added touch for a photoshoot or the perfect picnic. Among the more decorative pieces are marionettes, parts of a dream of making a larger puppet theatre, as well as Valebjørg Design’s popular wooden Lego butlers. Crafted from 1947 English oak and ash trees and decorated with gold leaves, the handcrafted figurines are captured in various poses and situations. Some carry tea and scones, while others offer a bouquet of flowers or play cheekily with a slingshot. Another Lego-style item is a lunchbox, handcrafted from wood and with an internal mechanism locking the lid in place when one of the knobs is turned. The

lunchbox is not only a beautifully made piece of furniture, but also reminiscent of a time prior to the plastic era, when items were made from quality materials and built to withstand time and use. The vast majority of Valebjørg Design’s work exists in the intersection between art and function. The line between the two is blurred and fluid, and intentionally so. “I’m very fond of art that can be useful,” says Andreas. “It’s always difficult explaining to people what we are and do. Stian is a fine arts and conceptual designer, whereas I’m a functional arts and crafts designer.” High-quality items made to last The idea of long-lasting design is essential to the Valebjørg brothers. The current trend of fast, cheap and expendable fashion and design is not only unsustainable from a financial and ecological point of view. It also disregards the value of handicrafts, of putting time, thought and effort into the creative processes, and studying, perfecting and honPicnic suitcase. Photo: Åsta Kristin Janøy

Functional art that excites and inspires The brothers have spent years building experience and a portfolio, and the results of their collaboration speak for themselves. How about a handmade 1900s-style picnic suitcase made from oak and leather? Complete with porcelain tableware, crystal glasses and space for a wine bottle and food, each compartment is carefully designed and crafted. The leather details are hand-cut and stitched. Every exquisite detail is immacMarch 2022

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Andreas in stainless steel leaf sculpture Seljeblad.

ing skills developed and passed down through centuries of experience. Rather than cheap materials, quick fixes and mass-production, the brothers want to focus their efforts on exclusivity, legacy and handcrafted quality. “We’d rather sell fewer items at a higher price and quality than mass produce cheaperquality items,” Andreas explains. “There’s no such thing as 3D printers or other shortcuts in our workshop. We find joy in the work itself, not in pressing buttons in an otherwise automated process.”

Lego sculpture butler.

into. Inside, you’ll find a bench to sit on and an epoxy heart with colours, figurines and light, all intended to spark the imagination. Another brand new sculpure is Seljeblad, a stainless-steel wire construction shaped like a leaf and noninvasively attached to a tree, making for a comfortable hammock-like place to rest and think. And maybe, along the way, Valebjørg Design’s creative and imaginative work

might help turn the tide of fast and disposable design in favour of a more sustainable, quality-based wave. Valebjørg Design: Web: www.valebjorgdesign.no Facebook: valebjorgdesign Instagram: @valebjorgdesign.no and @stian_valebjorgdesign

Hamaren Aktivitetspark: Facebook: hamarenaktivitetspark

In addition to the toys and smaller items, Valebjørg Design also designs and constructs larger pieces of furniture. Tailored bookshelves, day lounges, cupboards and coffee tables are among the items they’ve built on commission. They’ve even constructed furniture for a church in the Norwegian town of Skien, and have also designed and constructed pieces of art displayed in various locations around Norway. Their latest pieces can be found in a brand-new activity park in Fyresdal, Hamaren Aktivitetspark, and are designed to explore, intrigue and inspire. One is a bear made from 350 metres of ten-millimetre stainless steel wire, bent by hand with only simple tools. Inspired by The Jungle Book’s Baloo, the bear is hollow and meant for children to climb 94 |

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Horse marionette.

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Artist of the Month |

Finland

Left and middle: The paintings harmonise with their surroundings. Right: Margit Artimaa paints in her bright home art studio in a beautiful old wooden villa.

Artist of the Month, Finland

Speaking through colours Margit Artimaa is a Finnish artist and interior designer, who combines these skills with an abundant creativity for complex art projects, like the latest one for Boutique Hotel Lillan in Tampere, Finland. There, her paintings are part of the design in each individually decorated room, and together they make up a permanent collection that spreads throughout the hotel.

on them is very much like painting a watercolour; every stroke is final, and it is important that the panel stays breathable and light,” she explains. Several panels can be combined as an installation to achieve the best results for the space.

By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Sara Niskala

Art has always been a part of Artimaa’s life. She has been teaching art in primary schools for over 20 years, and it has been a great contributor in her life. “I teach students to observe their surroundings and the objects around them,” Artimaa explains. “I have also trained other art teachers, and teaching has always given me the opportunity to learn more.” Besides teaching, Artimaa has always had her own business. She has, for example, made illustrations and designed logos for companies as well as her own postcard series. Lately, she has been concentrating on the paintings commissioned for private homes and public places, like in the project for the Boutique Hotel Lillan. “For me, it’s not only about me and my art; it all starts from the client and their

needs,” she explains. “When a client contacts me, I like to see the space the piece is intended for and see the materials, light and colours there.” She finds it very important how the space communicates with the art, and what kind of feeling and energy the art brings to the place. “In abstract art, it’s the spectator who creates the final piece in their mind,” Artimaa reflects. “When the client has been able to give their input during the process, the outcome is often very successful.” Interior elements and property advice One of Artimaa’s specialties is acoustic art, which acts as stylish interior elements and softens the soundscape at the same time. “The acoustic panels that I use are made to measure, and painting

As a multi-talented entrepreneur, Artimaa always looks for new challenges. She has recently started to work as a real estate agent, also. “With my experience in interior design, I am happy to help clients in styling the property before listing it, and also to help the buyers choose art for their new home,” she explains. “On the art front, my dream is to have my own exhibition in a wonderful location – a combination that will create the best aesthetic experience for the visitor,” Artimaa reveals. “Often, life takes us towards our dreams step by step, when we keep imagining what we want.”

Web: www.artimaa.com LinkedIn: Margit Artimaa Instagram: @margitartimaa

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Hille’s work Hiding/I got your back. Curator and art communicator Luisa Figueira Aubert says of Hille: “She is a storyteller about the unredeemed, the imperfect and the unspoken.”

The painting Everything.

Artist of the Month, Norway

The art of visualising calm in the chaos It was never a given that art would be the way of life for Norwegian visual artist Janne Løhre Hille. By Åsa H. Aaberge

Photos: Ansgar Valbø

After studying both language and marketing, the Oslo-based multi-artist worked as a counsellor and later within marketing. But as the corporate career spun, an urge to express herself creatively grew.

also rent a spot at a ceramic workshop where I create clay sculptures. As I find it intriguing to vary my techniques, I have started to play with woodcuts as well,” says Hille.

After having her first child, Hille started art school. Her family grew from one to two and then three children – and with every new addition to the family, the artist dream blossomed. Now she spends every day in the studio being a full-time artist. “I have my atelier where I primarily work with abstract painting on canvas and wood panels. I 96 |

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Planet.

Hille focuses on compositions, variations in techniques and abstract shapes, organic textures and structures in her creations. As for the palette, she mainly sticks to the colder hues of the colour spectrum. Blue shades are more often than not prominent in her work. Symbolism and subjective motifs As an initiative for the observer to make up their minds and open up to subjective feelings and opinions, Hille stays away from titling her works in great detail. “I deliberately try to be a bit vague so that the observer can view my pictures in their own experience, and not mine. That way, the art feels more open and makes for exciting and subjective motifs,” she says. Symbolism is hidden within her work, and Hille does not want worldly descriptions to guide the viewer’s interpretation. “My

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Norway

art is largely affected by human relations and experiences, but the viewer is free to interpret something else from their point of view. I find that exciting,” she says. As a person, Hille sees herself as quite introverted. She needs a sense of calmness within – a characteristic she experiences reflected in her artworks. The need for calm is intervened by the noise and outer affection from the world, resulting in the various motifs Hille brings to life. “I wish for the viewer to experience calmness in my motifs, while also reminding them of the uncertain momentums that surround us in life, be it themes such as climate, a pandemic or political tensions,” says Hille. The painting Planet strongly references monuments of uncertainty. “Existential questions occupy me, reflected in my motifs with the ocean, universe and human beings. I am concerned about mental health and have been inspired by that in some of my works.” Credibility in layers When creating, Hille prefers to take time, and she tends to juggle several works at once. “My paintings often consist of infinite layers of colours in the base before I layer the surface. From a distance, the motifs might look quiet and harmonious. By looking closer, one can sense a well of colours in the base layers.” Layers add life to the works and draw parallels to how we function as human beings, she says. “Not everything is how it seems at first glance. The pictures be-

Silence.

come more credible and exciting as one detects the details. Many of those who have purchased my work have commented on the fact that they constantly notice new elements of the motif.” The handiwork and the process of creating are what drive Hille as an artist. She often works on voluminous surfaces that can withstand ravage. For equipment, she prefers to use a spatula or paintbrush. After adding a layer on top of another layer, she sands down the work to discover hidden gems within the layers underneath.

Closeness to the family and nature Hille grew up in Stavanger, a coastal town in the south-western part of Norway. She often finds herself longing for the raw, open freshness of the west coast and the North Sea. Countless days spent by the sea have resulted in her extensive use of blue. “The colour blue symbolises stability and peace within. Especially the painting Running to the Sea refers to the longing for closeness to the sea,” she says. In her current hometown, Oslo, Hille seeks inspiration on walks in the surrounding nature. She also finds the city crowds with unity and differences among the inhabitants equally fascinating, while simultaneously cherishing being able to retreat to her private studio and home. “I am constantly inspired by my family and must admit that I get the most energy and calm around my flock. To combine motherhood with working as an artist gives me both flexibility, togetherness with the family and more room for reflection,” says Hille.

Janne Løhre Hille. Hille pictured at Edvard Munch’s atelier in Ekely where she worked for four months. “I liked it there and undoubtedly got inspired by Munch’s colour palette, which is evident in the pictures I painted that winter,” she says.

Web: www.jlhille.no Instagram: @jannehille.art

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Culture

Anita Briem

March 2022

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Culture

Anita Briem

Anita Briem: Getting new eyes “This film is not only hugely close to my heart, in terms of the story and the character, but working on it has been a pivotal event. It changed my life.” By Paula Hammond |

Photos: Saga Sig; hair and make-up by Elín Reynis

Anita Briem is talking about her new film, Quake, which is based on the best-selling novel Grand Mal by Auður Jónsdóttir. Quake was the film that brought her back to her native Iceland after 14 years of living and working in LA – something, she says, she never thought would happen. “I was born and raised here in Iceland, but by the time I was 14 or 15… it was starting to feel incredibly claustrophobic. Just like with any small-town community, I felt uncomfortable at how everybody knew everyone else’s business.” Briem’s career began treading the boards with the National Theatre of Iceland. “I was convinced,” she laughs, “that I was a grown-up at nine, when I got my first acting job. I told my parents, ‘I’m a working woman now, so you can’t drive me to school’. I insisted on taking a bus and my mum let me, but still secretly drove behind the bus to make sure I was okay!” Flying the nest At 16, Briem moved to London to study and then went onto the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). “It was a huge

moment of growth. When I came to London, all of a sudden I was a blank canvas. I didn’t have anyone’s opinion on what I could and couldn’t do hanging over me. That was incredibly liberating and I was able to explore lots of aspects of myself that I’d been convinced I wasn’t very good at. To be honest, I imagined I would stay in London forever, but then work took me to America and I started a whole new chapter.” 2006 saw her starring in the American police procedural The Evidence, followed by playing Jane Seymour in Showtime’s smash hit series The Tudors. Then, in 2008, she had her first taste of the action blockbuster, starring opposite Brendan Fraser in Journey to the Centre of the Earth. “It’s funny, because in Iceland I was terrible in gym class,” Briem says. “I would just get six out of ten every time for anything to do with movement. But at RADA, I started training and I thought it was an amazing thing to have these new tools to tell a story in a physical capacity.”

She loved it so much that she won the John Barton Award for Stage Fighting. “That confidence in my physicality definitely helped with a film like Journey because, even though I’m five foot four and very petite, from the training I had had, I felt strong. I felt capable. And playing next to Brendan Frazer, who is really, really tall, that was a good attribute for my character, Hannah, to have. She didn’t know her own size and was big in spirit.” Home sweet home Briem returned to her native shores in 2019 to shoot a series called The Minister. “I was here for six months with my daughter and creatively, socially — being close to my family, which I hadn’t been in a really long time — it just changed everything. It hit me like a thunderbolt: I need to be here. But I hadn’t quite figured things out, because I’m married to a Greek-American and we were building a house in LA, so moving wasn’t exactly on the books!” Briem had met Tinna Hrafnsdóttir while working on The Minister, and Hrafnsdóttir asked her to audition for a feature she was directing called Quake. Quake tells the story of Saga (Briem), a single mother who is hit by a fierce epileptic ‘brain quake’ that results in significant memory loss. Afraid of losing her son, Saga March 2022

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Anita Briem

From the film Quake. Photo: Lilja Jónsdóttir

attempts to hide her condition. But with her new world-view come new beginnings, and a revelation from the past that may help heal old wounds. It’s a film that has a lot to say, especially at a time when women’s rights are under attack. At the start of the film, Saga has zero agency. Her independence has been taken from her by her parents, by her ex, and by the authorities. But slowly, she blossoms. “What’s so interesting is that the event that takes her memory also gives her the ability to see the world with new eyes, and all the things that she would have accepted before don’t make any sense to her now,” reflects Briem. “So she’s challenging authority and her family – everything, really – because all of those rules and preconceptions have been stripped away.” She continues: “I loved the screenplay, I loved the book, and the idea of doing 100

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this film harmonised with my other experiences towards this big epiphany I was having. And it’s so different from anything I’ve done before. Different textually, with this raw character. You see the story almost as though you’re inside her head… But you’re never spoon-fed. There’s a lot of nuance and subtlety, so that the audience can really put themselves in Saga’s shoes.” Saga’s ‘new eyes’ turned out to be a gift for Briem too. After filming Quake, the plan was to head back to LA, but then Covid arrived in Iceland. “No one knew what was going on, but my daughter was still in school here and I felt that I could trust the news, and not have to decipher what’s a lie and what’s a trick. So it was actually a real silver-lining. I’d been dreading going back because I really wanted to stay, and now I couldn’t go back. So I stayed and then went straight into another film in the summer. And by

then I was definitely not going back! In fact, I haven’t been back at all.” Briem is speaking from her home in Iceland, unwinding with a glass of wine after what she calls an “interesting day” on set. Which, from what she says, is exactly how she likes it.

Quake had its World Premiere at Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival and was released in Iceland in January 2022.

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Columns

Scandinavian music On the new music front, it’s all about the female artists in our culture issue this month. Swedish artist GRANT is out with something of a stunner of a new single, Seriously, Let’s Ride Or Die. It’s a love song with an edge to its lyrics that ends up being wholly relatable. This has a retro Americana feel to it, while simultaneously being a modern ballad with a more universal appeal. There’s a lot of beauty to be unearthed in its three minutes.

Hailing from Västerås in Sweden, 21-yearold RONIA has been writing and producing her own music for a while, and now finally releases the first fruits of that labour – her debut single Ghost. It serves as a suitably powerful introduction to a new artist, and is just as impactful as that first impression needs to be. It’s dark, but its darkness has a hint of decadence to it. And it’s the kind of debut single that leaves you wondering what on earth (or out of this earth) could possibly be coming next.

New music has also arrived from the Danish artist Sarah Sophie Malmros, known as SASO for the purposes of her pop career. Her latest single I’m So Bored is a pulsating electro-pop tune that seems to pick up pace as it goes along, taking you with it on its neon-drenched journey. Think Robyn at her most pop, meets Carly Rae Jepsen at her most Scandipop!

Finally, with Island of the Sun, Winona Oak has penned a love song to Sweden’s nature; in particular Sollerön, from where she hails. She uses the island, which is located on the Siljan lake in Dalarna, central Sweden, as a metaphor for a place where everything is peaceful and simple: a happy place within ourselves or in a relationship, and a bittersweet yearning for somewhere

Open

corner and there it was, bathed in light and with its speakers blaring: one very much open café.

Anxiety churned in my stomach as I looked for a space – any space – that seemed less lonely, less dark, where I could spend the next four hours. And then I thought I heard music. Was the despair making me hallucinate? Following the sound, I rounded a

Its owner was frantically plating up refreshments to dazed Swedes, drawn to the light like thankful moths. ‘Yes?’ he shouted at me, then proceeded to recommend green tea instead of black, advising that ‘green tea is good for you’. He was right, it

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Web: www.scandipop.co.uk

was good for me. It seemed to be good for all of us – for the man next to me ordering hourly rounds of lasagne, for the young couple quietly celebrating their trip with beers and buns, and for the lone rocker who looked both surprised and pleased to be awake, watching Netflix on his phone.

Recently, I had a stopover at the airport in Stockholm, lasting between midnight and 4am. Arriving, everything was exactly as I had dreaded it would be. The airport was deserted. Shops were closed, their shutters pulled down; desks stood empty, lights were switched off. Here and there, people were sleeping in dim corners, slumped miserably over their luggage, waiting for the country to reboot.

we ache to go to again. The resulting listen is quite a captivating one, as you can imagine.

By Maria Smedstad

Swedes love regulations. This is particularly true when it comes to workers’ rights, both real and assumed. Business opening hours are strict and sometimes unhelpful. In Sweden, when the computer says no, it really says no.

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Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for regulations. But at two in the morning, when hungry and alone, I’ve never been more grateful to find a country I thought I knew to be open to change. Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

Welcome to Vengsøy Rorbuer

A quiet getaway, a place to breathe, think and to just exist. Perfect place to recharge your batteries and let yourmind relax. Only 1 hour in distance from Tromsø by car and ferry. Vengsøy, Tromsø, Norway Tel: (+47) 902 94 877 Email: maria@vengsoyrorbuer.com www.vengsoyrorbuer.com

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Culture

| Calendar

Scandinavian Culture Calendar – Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here! By Hanna Heiskanen

Oslo International Church Music Festival (19-27 March and 3-11 September) The Oslo International Church Music Festival enters its 22nd year with a programme consisting of both traditional and contemporary elements. Examples of the latter include Tyler Futrell’s new Stabat Mater, and Together by Henrik Hellstenius, a professor of composition at the Norwegian Academy of Music and EDVARD Prize winner. The festival takes place in two segments this year, and the closing concert for the March segment is a new St. Matthew Passion from the Danish composer Bent Sørensen. Locations around Oslo oicmf.no

Sustainable Colour (until 27 March) You might already have some knowledge of the environmental impact of the fabric in your clothes, but what about the dyes

that were used in making them? The Design Museum in Helsinki explores the trends of dyeing and how natural dyes can be used to improve the sustainability of the fashion industry. Korkeavuorenkatu 23, Helsinki designmuseum.fi

Nordic Exposure season (5 March to 1 May) Even if you find yourself in London this spring, that doesn’t mean you’ll need to miss out on all the Scandi fun! The arts and culture venue Jacksons Lane is putting on a season of Nordic performances, from adaptations of fairytales to poetic circus and magical puppetry, with artists representing Finland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and the Faroe Islands. Check out the free photo exhibition on winter swimming while you are there. 269a Archway Road, London N6 5AA jacksonslane.org.uk

Omar Victor Diop (until 22 May)

Migration. Photo: Carl Ander

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Omar Victor Diop (b. 1980) is a Senegalese photographer whose works also explore fashion, fine art and design. The Turku Art Museum’s spring exhibition explores three key bodies inspired by Western portraiture, the struggle for Black freedom and the climate crisis on the African continent. In addition, you will have the chance to see Windrush, commissioned to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the arrival

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Calendar

Allegoria 4, by Omar Victor Diop. Photo courtesy of MAGNIN-A, Paris

of the HMT Empire Windrush to the UK, for the first time. Aurakatu 26, Turku turuntaidemuseo.fi

Migration – the Journey of Objects (until 28 August) The Röhsska Museum of Design and Craft, which opened in 1916 in Gothenburg, is the only museum of its kind in Sweden. Its collection comprises some 50,000 artefacts, from the ancient to the

contemporary. But how did some of those objects end up there? And how have they been used to spread ideas about design? Vasagatan 37-39, Gothenburg rohsska.se

Design Museum. Photo: Otso Kaijaluoto

A Space Saga (until 4 September) How to build a structure suited for space? SAGA Space Architects, whose aim is to make space livable, have attempted to answer the question by constructing March 2022

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Dansk Arkitektur Center. Photo: Rasmus Hjortshøj

Nordic Exposure season at Jacksons Lane. Photo: Tim Easton

a lunar habitat, LUNARK. The habitat, inspired in its design by Japanese origami, was tested in 2020 in North Greenland to explore the psychological effects of isolation, and now you can see the structure for yourself at the Danish Architecture Centre. Bryghuspladsen 10, Copenhagen dac.dk

Deichman Bjørvika library These days, libraries are about much more than borrowing books and quiet study. Pop by Deichman Bjørvika, the Oslo library that was recently awarded the prestigious Public Library of the Year award by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) thanks to its modern design and user-friendliness. In addition to books, the space offers youth theatre and role-playing classes, IT support and even literary therapy. Anne-Cath. Vestlys plass 1, Oslo deichman.no 106

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A Space Saga. Photo: Claus Troelsgaard

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Articles inside

Made in Norway

Unique Experiences in Denmark

Darin: An Idol Two Decades at the Top

Sunny Slope Sips and Golfing Greens

Swedish Culture Special

Dinner Party Days

Returning to Iceland