Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Denmark
Attraction of the Month, Denmark
KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad: An oasis of art, history and nature In beautiful, green surroundings at the corner of Denmark’s largest forest, you will find the historic spot that is home to KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad – a sanctuary for nature lovers and art and history enthusiasts alike. By Mette Hindkjær Madsen | Photos: Kunst Centret
“This place is unique. It’s not simply a randomly placed art centre – it has such a strong history and continues to hold a solid connection to it,” says Iben From, director of KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad.
enjoy. Sometimes it can feel like you have to know something or think in a certain way to enjoy an art centre, but we make sure that everyone feels welcome in our space,” says From.
Each year, KunstCentret Silkeborg Bad unveils eight to nine different art exhibitions in addition to their permanent collection, which gives visitors a chance to dive into the history of the buildings and the park they are exploring.
“If you’re in a group and only some are interested in the artwork, there is a gorgeous park to discover, and you can immerse yourself in history through our permanent display, or maybe grab something to eat and drink in the café and have a chat with our wonderful staff,” she continues. “There’s no specific, proper way to be a guest here.”
The premises was established in 1883 as something then known as health facilities, where Scandinavia’s aristocracy would come for recreational purposes. This practice kept going until 1983, when it opened to the public. “It used to be for the few; now it’s a place for everyone to 104 | Issue 106 | November 2017
The buildings are the oldest restorations of health facilities in Denmark today. Every room is beautiful, boasting plenty of light and air and overlooking the sur-
rounding nature. This is the director’s favourite part. “Even in the winter, there’s a special connection between the outdoors and the indoors that really highlights the art,” she says. Two exhibitions will run until the end of this year: one with an international theme, Europathy – Europa Felix, and one displaying the work of the deceased Danish ceramist Erik Nyholm. All year round, different types of documentation from the properties’ history as a health facility are on display as part of the permanent exhibition.
For those looking for special accommodation while exploring Silkeborg, the art centre hosts seven private double rooms in a hostel-like arrangement where you make your own bed and can cook your meals in a private kitchen.
Web: www.silkeborgbad.dk