Spring 2024 is here – Discover art everywhere

Undeterred by the weather, spring in Skellefteå bursts with a diverse array of art exhibitions. From thought-provoking narratives captured through photography to captivating black-and-white portraits, and colorful bursts of expression on canvas, the city offers something to ignite every artistic curiosity. Why not embark on your own self-guided art tour? Norran has selected a few of the exhibitions currently underway.

At Nordanå, you can enjoy creations made by first-year art students at Solvik's adult education center.

At Nordanå, you can enjoy creations made by first-year art students at Solvik's adult education center.

Foto: Åsa Juthberg

Skellefteå2024-04-19 15:30

One recommendation is to visit Nordanå, which is currently hosting an exhibition showcasing the creative journeys of Solvik's first-year art students. This captivating display allows you to witness the artistic process unfold, from initial sketches to the finished masterpieces. Prepare to be enthralled by a vibrant explosion of color, form, and playful experimentation. The exhibition runs until May 3.

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At Nordanå, you can enjoy creations made by first-year art students at Solvik's adult education center.

Nordanå is also running a compelling dual exhibition, showcasing the works of photographer Krister Hägglund.

One half of the exhibition, titled "Edla and Krister – A Background Story," delves into the connection between Hägglund and renowned Skellefteå author Sara Lidman. The specific details of this connection are not provided, but it likely explores their shared artistic passion or influence on each other's work.

The other half, "Hjortronlandet" (Lingonberry Land), features a selection of photographs Hägglund captured in Sara Lidman's hometown of Missenträsk during 2021. Notably, this exhibition includes portraits of local residents posed against a painted backdrop.

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Skellefteå Museum exhibits some of Krister Hägglund's photographs alongside those taken by Edla Viklund more than 100 years ago.

Photographer Krister Hägglund found inspiration in the work of Edla Viklund, a pioneer who captured portraits around her hometown of Häbbersfors in the early 1910s. Hägglund's own series of portraits draws on Viklund's style.

Skellefteå museum presents "Double Exposure: A Century of Portraits," running until November 24. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to see Viklund's historic portraits alongside Hägglund's contemporary works, creating a fascinating dialogue across generations.

–The result turned out really amazing, actually, Krister Hägglund told Norran

The museum also boasts a rich collection for history buffs. Visitors can explore the region's past, encompassing Skellefteå, Norsjö, and Malå, from 10,500 BCE to 2020. Jörgen Andersson, a museum archivist, leads a guided tour of Storsia on April 21, focusing on the 14th to 18th centuries.

Finally, the museum features "The Smoke Would Blow Towards the Russians," an art project by Monica Larsson and Catrin Lundqvist. This exhibition examines the Rönnskär smelting plant in Skelleftehamn, its impact, and its legacy.

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"The Smoke Would Blow Towards the Russians" is an art project about the Rönnskär smelting plant in Skelleftehamn by Monica Larsson and Catrin Lundqvist, at the Skellefteå Museum.

Both artists have their roots in Västerbotten and have ancestors who were employed at Rönnskär works. Wille Varg-Larsson worked at the arsenic plant for 39 years, and Hilding Snus-Lundqvist was employed as a carpenter at Rönnskär for 17 years. The exhibition aims to stimulate discussion about the consequences of industrialism, with Rönnskär as an example. It is held in collaboration with MAN/Museum Anna Nordlander and is displayed at Skellefteå museum until September 29

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"The Smoke Would Blow Towards the Russians" is an art project about the Rönnskär smelting plant in Skelleftehamn by Monica Larsson and Catrin Lundqvist, at the Skellefteå Museum.

If you swing by Galleri1 at Parkbron, you can see the exhibition of graphic prints by Erkki Tierma. Burträskbygdens Konstförening celebrates its 70th anniversary this year and offers an extra exhibition at Galleri1.

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At Galleri1, Burträskbygdens Art Association exhibits graphic prints by Erkki Tierma (1941-2008).

A retrospective of Finnish artist Erkki Tierma (1941-2008) unfolds at Burträskbygdens Konstförening. Tierma, who called Nybo, Västanträsk home for over five decades, explored a variety of artistic mediums throughout his career, including painting, graphics, and computer-based art. The exhibition runs from April 20 to 28, featuring works available for purchase at "humane prices" according to Ulrika Rönnblom-Persson of Burträskbygdens Konstförening.

Over at Sara kulturhus' city library, "Lin för livet" (Flax for Life) invites visitors to explore a collection of linen textiles gathered from across Sweden. Curated by Sweden's handicraft consultants and regional developers, the exhibition offers a glimpse into the enduring presence of linen in everyday life. Photographer Maja Kristin Nylander captures the beauty of this versatile material. Don't miss it – "Lin för livet" runs until April 24.

Finnish artist Saara Ekström brings her thought-provoking exhibition "Geopsyche" to Museum Anna Nordlander (MAN). Ekström delves into the interconnectedness of geological phenomena, evolution, and the subconscious mind through her sculptures and multimedia works. Using clay, stone, bronze, photography, and moving images, the exhibition invites viewers on a journey of artistic exploration. "Geopsyche" is open to the public until May 26.

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Sara square is currently hosting the photo exhibition "Icons: An Exhibition About the Right to Exist." This powerful exhibit showcases portraits of renowned icons and archetypes, but with a unique twist. The 21 models, hailing from across Sweden, all share Down syndrome, and through their portraits, the exhibition celebrates the universality of dreams, emotions, and human experience.
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Sara square is currently hosting the photo exhibition "Icons: An Exhibition About the Right to Exist." This powerful exhibit showcases portraits of renowned icons and archetypes, but with a unique twist. The 21 models, hailing from across Sweden, all share Down syndrome, and through their portraits, the exhibition celebrates the universality of dreams, emotions, and human experience.

The photo exhibition "Icons: An Exhibition About the Right to Exist" at Sara square challenges societal perceptions. Portraits of renowned icons and archetypes, all played by 21 models with Down syndrome, spark conversations about inclusivity and acceptance. Curated by the Photographic Museum in collaboration with Pär Johansson (Glada Hudik Theatre), photographer Emma Svensson, and costume designers Linda Sandberg and Helena Andersson, the exhibition continues until April 30.

Sjöns bönhus springs into life with a salon showcasing local artisans and artists on April 20. Residents of Sjön and Hjoggböle villages, or those with connections to the area, will display their creations. The opening ceremony includes refreshments and a chance to mingle with the exhibitors.

Edelvik in Burträsk has an exhibition of their four part-time art groups using different techniques in images, textiles and ceramics.

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Edelvik's spring show
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Edelvik's spring show.

From May onward, Skellefteå Konsthall marks Boliden's 100th anniversary with an exploration of the town's artistic and architectural heritage. Exhibitions at Folkets Hus and Boliden Church will showcase public art, the artists behind it, and the town's influential architects. Visitors can delve deeper into Boliden's architecture through a dedicated exhibition. Architectural walking tours are planned for June 2, offering a chance to experience Boliden's built environment.                                                                   

More?

This is a selection of the exhibitions currently in progress. If you have tips for more, please email us: kulturen@norran.se