Scan Magazine, Issue 125, June 2019

JUNE 2019 ISSUE 125 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

FUN MIDSUMMER TRADITIONS AND NO-HANGOVER BEERS NENEH CHERRY – STILL A REBEL ROMANTIC GETAWAYS AND HIDDEN GEMS IN SWEDEN TRAVEL SPOTLIGHTS: KRISTIANSAND, ESPOO AND BERGEN

Contents COVER FEATURE 44

Scandinavian Midsummer Traditions

72

44 60

86 On the Tee, by the Sea – and in the Rain This month’s design section presents, among other things, quality rain gear, award-winning boats and sportswear fit for a day on the golf course. Our resident design editor, meanwhile, shows how beige doesn’t have to be boring and shares some tips for a Scandilicious outdoor space.

90

Non-alcoholic Beer and ‘Friluftsliv’ Go Scandinavian this summer, whether or not you choose to try a midsummer ritual or two. Our beer connoisseur, Malin Norman, shows how drinking sensibly can be more delicious than ever – and hangover free – while a French woman in Norway explains why making the most of the great outdoors is the best part of life in the Nordics. Find this and more among our special features.

SPECIAL THEMES 54

Avoid the crowds and get cosy with loved ones on your next trip to Sweden. Behold castles, cobblestones, vineyards and charming manor houses, all in this guide to our favourite secret gems in Sweden.

86 97

Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

68

Travel Spotlight: Explore Espoo Close to Helsinki yet distinctly its own, Espoo makes a great destination for a daytrip or an entire relaxing weekend away. We set out to discover the best cultural and culinary haunts not to miss.

Visit Denmark In addition to its rich fine-arts history and maritime heritage, Denmark boasts an impressive range of forward-thinking, modern establishments.

We went to explore Danish culture with a focus on innovation and new ideas, and what we found was both inspiring and entertaining – including a different kind of garden festival, a unique way to explore cities by boat, and a folk music festival born out of a hangover.

SPECIAL FEATURES 38

Travel Spotlight: Visit Bergen After falling in love with Bergen recently, we couldn’t quite let go before presenting another two of our favourite cultural hubs: Kunsthall 3.14 and Bergen National Opera.

DESIGN 10

Travel Spotlight: Visit Kristiansand The city of Kristiansand on the stunning Norwegian Riviera has much more to offer than just beautiful beaches and a relaxing vibe. Scan Magazine went to explore this popular hub in the south of Norway and found cultural hotspots as well as a flourishing food scene.

From bonfires and phallic poles to frog dances and snaps tunes, what is the deal with the quirky Nordic traditions that kick off around this time every year?

Scan Magazine has the lowdown on the rituals you should try for a truly Scandinavian midsummer experience this month.

BUSINESS 99

Your Vision – and Workers’ Rights Keynote writer Simone Andersen shares her expertise on how to find and follow a strong vision, while columnist Steve Flinders argues that no business vision is complete without solid workers’ rights and participation. This, as well as insight into Denmark’s best conference venue and an innovative LED light for open-plan offices, can be found in this month’s business section.

CULTURE 128 A Swedish Rebel and A Finnish Gimmick On tour with her new album, a Broken Politics, and approaching her 55th birthday, Neneh Cherry spoke to Scan Magazine about Swedishness, community, and the healing power of music.

Meanwhile, in Finland, there is a new, quirky way to get to know the country from the inside and out.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 12 108 114 120

Fashion Diary | 14 We Love This | 102 Conference of the Month | 105 Restaurants of the Month Hotels of the Month | 111 Accommodation of the Month | 112 Inn of the Month Wellness Profile of the Month | 116 Attraction of the Month | 118 Summer Experience of the Month Museum of the Month | 122 Artists of the Month | 126 Humour

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, I’m a huge fan of midsummer. The closeness to nature, the smell of damp grass, the elderflower, the frankly ridiculous dancing, the insistence on staying outside regardless of the weather – I love it. And during my last trip to Sweden, I picked up on another thing I like and want more of: the non-alcoholic drinking trend, with special beer shops selling nothing but beers with low or no alcohol popping up all over the trendiest parts of Stockholm. This issue of Scan Magazine explores both of these subjects as part of a summer special, alongside a look at some of the most charming, romantic hidden gems, where you should definitely bring your favourite person if you want to spoil them or just make some unforgettable memories together.

For some, of course, no holiday is better than a staycation.

Neneh Cherry, whose Notting Hill house is regularly overflowing with visiting musicians and friends, is clearly not just a community person, but a family person. “That love is everything,” she told me – and in many ways, I can only agree. Take design editor Ingrid Opstad’s advice on how to Scandify your garden or balcony this summer, and you’ve got a rock-solid recipe for success, if you ask me.

Happy midsummer!

Linnea Dunne, Editor

If your special someone happens to be a bit of a culture vulture, don’t miss our Visit Denmark theme, which presents some culturally exciting and innovative attractions. But pay attention to our travel spotlights too: Kristiansand, for example, is already a hugely popular holiday destination among Norwegians, but we think it’s likely to become the next big number-one Nordic tourist destination, with an enviable mix of brilliant beaches and urban fun. Go before everyone else does! For that ultimate city buzz, pop over to Bergen on your way home and catch a moving concert or inspiring art show – in addition to more of that wild, refreshing sea air, that is.

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Award-winning recreation As one of Denmark’s oldest beach hotels, Marienlyst Strandhotel has been known as a frontrunner in the Danish hospitality industry for more than a century. Its award-winning beach spa is the latest initiative to ensure it remains so. With a beautiful décor, unique treatments, and views of Øresund, it offers a blissful break for both leisure and business guests.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Marienlyst Strandhotel

Opened in 1861, Marienlyst has, with its beachside beauty and attractive closeness to Kronborg (Elsinore) Castle, managed to charm several generations of seaside guests. But though the beach and historic site remain the same, a lot has changed. Today, the hotel serves not just as a destination for wellness and pampering, but also for business and inspiration, and many new facilities have been added on to the original experience. Most recently, the hotel has 8 | Issue 125 | June 2019

expanded with a 1,600-square-metre beach-themed spa, which was this year named Spa of the Year by the Danish Beauty Awards. The spa is an example of how the historic hotel has kept developing to stay at the forefront of the Danish hospitality industry. “Marienlyst has been a functioning hotel more or less since it opened in 1861 – there’s never been anything else here. In the past, it was very much known as the pearl of the Danish Rivera – the north

coast – somewhere where the higher layers of society would go to dine, enjoy the sea, and relax,” says marketing manager Charlotte Frederiksen. “But it’s also been managed by some very ambitious hotel directors, who have pushed the limits of what was perceived as possible in Danish hotels.”

A treat for body and soul Just like the hotel, Marienlyst’s beach spa offers a combination of traditional recreational treats, beautiful views and innovative treatments and features.

Among the classic spa experiences are steam baths, a warm outdoor infinity pool, salt therapy and saunas, including two on the beach, allowing guests to combine a saunaGus (aromatherapy in the sauna) experience with a refreshing

Scan Magazine | Wellness Feature | Marienlyst Strandspa

dip in the sea. Among the more distinct treatments and experiences is the oneof-a-kind cobber spa. “We wanted to create a spa with a number of distinct experiences and treatments that aren’t available anywhere else,” explains Frederiksen. “One of them is the cobber spa, which is developed by our spa manager Gita Grauslund; it’s the only one of its kind in all of the world. It’s an experience that takes about an hour, during which the guest is guided through different facilities combining the healing benefits of cobber, clay and heat.”

Among other distinct experiences is the Kraxenofen Massage, which consists of a 20-minute steam treatment in a chair padded with hay – releasing the restoring effects of the hay’s coumarin oil – followed by a relaxing massage.

Award-winning facilities With its many facilities, the hotel is also a popular venue for business meetings and conferences and was this year awarded two of the industry’s most significant awards – one for Best Meeting Concept, and one for Best Facilities. And it is not just the Danish award bodies that are impressed by the historic beach hotel. “Over the last six months, we have won four very prestigious awards – three in Denmark and one in the UK,” explains Frederiksen. “The Best International Hotel award was given to us by

the Best Loved Hotels site, which chose Marienlyst out of the 15 hotels nominated outside the UK. It was the first year they gave a prize to a hotel outside of the UK, and we’re incredibly proud to have had that international recognition.”

Among Marienlyst’s many facilities are also two sea-view restaurants and an informal and cosy bar and lounge area – also with sea views, of course. But it is not primarily the facilities that are at the core of the hotel’s success, stresses Frederiksen. “We have a very high culi-

nary level, and that’s something that is appreciated by all our guests, whether they’re here for business or for a private stay. But it is not just about the food, facilities and location – our employees are the most important piece of the puzzle when it comes to our guests’ experience; they’re the ones who make the difference, who make all our guests feel welcome and at ease.”

Web: www.marienlyst.dk

Facts: Marienlyst was established in 1861.

The hotel includes: • 19 different meeting and conference spaces with a capacity of 300 guests.

• 227 hotel rooms, suites and junior suites.

• Large outdoor facilities including eight large terraces, one rooftop, and several with sea views.

• Marienlyst Casino.

• A 1,600-square-metre spa.

• Two restaurants, a wine bar, and a bar and lounge area.

The hotel is located a five-minute walk from the town of Elsinore and Kronborg Castle.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 9

Scan Magazine | Health Product | Elmedistraal

Increase blood flow to lessen pain Conceived by an innovative, if somewhat accident-prone, Danish inventor in the 1970s, the Elmedistraal device uses electromagnetism to boost blood flow, improving circulation in order to help reduce or eliminate pain from conditions ranging from restless legs, leg sores and bone fractures to tennis elbow and headaches.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Elmedistraal

Nuclear physicist Henning Rosengart was on his way to Germany to present his new invention, the world’s first reaction engine, when he wound up in a serious car accident. Never one to rest, he studied to be an engineer, as well as a doctor, while in recovery, and found work improving the technology at a Swedish hospital, where he came up with an eye-surgery laser as well as multiple other inventions.

“It was actually another accident that led to the invention of the Elmedistraal method in 1974,” says his son, Kurt Rosengart.

“He had an unlucky run-in with a sailboat, getting squashed between that and the wharf, and he suffered great pain in his leg even after it had healed. He hit upon the idea that a device could be invented to help increase blood circulation, and that it had the potential to help numerous people with all kinds of physical problems.” With his triple background in medicine, engi10 | Issue 125 | June 2019

neering and physics, the older Rosengart set to work exploring the pull of electromagnetism on the atoms of blood cells.

“My father realised that a machine could increase the ion movement in the molecules of the blood by combining pulsating electrical impulses with a low-frequency magnetic field, reinforcing the blood flow, energising the blood cells and restoring elasticity of the blood vessels,” Kurt explains. Soon, the Elmedistraal device was tested at its first clinical trial: at the Vasa Hospital in Gothenburg, eight patients were selected, the blood circulation in their legs so poor that they were about to have them amputated. Of the eight, seven were completely cured and saved from amputation.

Today, Elmedistraal is run by Kurt Rosengart and the method has been patented in Europe and the US. The

most current rendition of the device, Elmedistraal V, is small and nimble enough for home use. The lenses and electrodes are placed on an arm or a leg for 30 minutes, usually twice a day for five days a week for at least a month. “Between 60 and 80 per cent of our users achieve satisfactory results. Some people use it 20 times and don’t feel the need to use it again; others continue with a session once or twice a week,” Kurt explains.

“My father himself became completely pain-free thanks to his Elmedistraal invention.”

Web: www.elmedistraal.dk

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary…

This spring and summer, we want to help you embrace the colour trend of the season: beige! Trust us when we say that beige is not boring. Add more classic neutrals to your wardrobe and experiment by mixing different beige tones for a sophisticated, effortless and chic look.

By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos

Accessories are the perfect way to introduce more neutral shades to your wardrobe, and what about a new pair of glasses? These Bardot 3 frames from Danish brand Ørgreen Optics were inspired by the minx-like blonde bombshell whose nonchalant style was all about attitude with a light and luxe style. Ørgreen Optics, ‘Bardot 3’ frames, price on inquiry www.orgreenoptics.com

Start with a basic skirt and add a flash of one bold colour, like, for instance, red, to bring your look to life. Then you can team it up with a pair of cool boots, accessories in a lighter tone and a jacket in a deeper hue for a complete look.

Gestuz, ‘Ariennegz’ skirt, approx £95 Gestuz, ‘Emeliagz’ boots, approx £296 www.gestuz.com

With a slim silhouette, this top is cut from a sheer, crinkled fabric with an all-over floral embroidery.

With its beautiful details and delicate, romantic look, it is perfect for warmer days. A versatile top you can wear together with a floaty skirt, a pair of shorts or skinny jeans.

Arket, embroidered top, £59 www.arket.com

The Kamma jacket by Birgitte Herskind is the perfect spring and summer jacket and makes it a flattering look for anyone. With an oversized fit in the finest pink and camel-coloured cubes, it goes down over the hips and has two large front pockets that complement its relaxed vibe and shape.

Birgitte Herskind, ‘Kamma’ jacket, £269 www.birgitteherskind.com

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

If you are unsure about beige, start by opting for a classic item like a sweater and pair it with other prints and colours to ease into the trend. Made of a cotton and linen mix in luxurious Italian yarns, with a modern slim-fit round-neck, this knit from Sand Copenhagen comes in a basket weave structure. Team yours with jeans or a suit for a contemporary look.

Sand Copenhagen, basket knit, £159 www.sandcopenhagen.com

Roll it, fold it, store it, love it! Use the M/S Flair bag from Mismo as your main bag or tuck it inside another in the event that you need multiple carrying options. The long nylon-ribbon handles make it easy to carry over the shoulder, and a set of horizontally placed full-grain bridle leather handles, hidden under the top fold, offer a firm handheld option as well.

It packs completely flat – an ideal travel companion for city exploration this summer.

Mismo, ‘M/S Flair’ bag, £174.48 www.mismo.dk

A pair of beige shoes is the perfect starting point to build an outfit. The modern classic 435g sneaker from the innovative shoe company Gram from Sweden is made for all Scandi minimalism aficionados. Retro style meets fashion forward. Fun fact: the brand is centred around the concept of weight, with each shoe model being named after the first sample’s weight in grams.

Gram, ‘435g’ sneakers, £180 www.gramshoes.com

For a head-to-toe look in similar shades of beige, add white in between to break it up. Get inspired by Norwegian brand Moods and team their Fuego Vik overshirt with the slim Paul Club trousers. The elastic finish makes the trousers soft and comfortable, making you feel like you are wearing joggers but still looking stylish.

Moods, ‘Fuego Vik’ shirt, £98 Moods, ‘Paul Club’ trousers, £89 www.moods.no

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this…

Get ready for summertime with our selection of Scandinavian designs for your outdoor space. With the right items, you can transform your terrace, balcony or garden into an idyllic and cosy place to enjoy those long and bright days ahead.

By Ingrid Opstad | Press photos

Fresh herbs make all the difference to meal preparation, whether it is in a tasty salad, pasta or dressing. The smart self-watering can GROW-IT from RIG-TIG, which means ‘just right’ in Danish, will help keep your herbs in tip-top condition thanks to its drainage and water reserve at the bottom. Hang them up and watch your herbs grow happily.

RIG-TIG, ‘GROW-IT’ herb pot, £19.99 www.thenordicedit.com

An outdoor trolley is easy to move around and provides a functional space to serve your guests drinks or food in your garden or on your terrace. The Fuori serving trolley from Skagerak is a mix of luxury and institutionalism in a harmonious approach. The powder-coated aluminium makes it light and architectonic in its structure, carried out by round profiles and clean Scandinavian lines.

Skagerak, ‘Fuori’ serving trolley, £639 www.skagerak.dk

With a clean, handle-free design and elongated spout for easy watering, this modern watering can is a durable and timeless object with interesting design proportions – a beautiful and decorative item to put on display and use all year round. It is made in weatherproof plastic and available in different colour options to suit any home.

HAY, watering can, £25 www.hay.dk

Embodying cosiness and comfortable conviviality, ‘hygge’ was the inspiration when Danish designers Norm Architects created the Carrie LED Lamp for Menu. The lamp is lightweight and portable enough to be perfect for picnicking in the park, festivalgoing or taking moonlit walks on the beach. Choose from one of three different light levels and five colours, with the new line also featuring a brushed brass finish, adding elegant textures and sleek lines to any outdoor space.

Menu, ‘Carrie’ LED table lamp, £130 www.nest.co.uk

Klorofyll by Norwegian brand Elementa features a comprehensive series of planters. Designed by Anderssen & Voll, it is a toolkit for furnishing with plants in new ways. With pots and bases in either terracotta or concrete, Klorofyll can be made to fit any space – both inside and outside.

Elementa, ‘Klorofyll’ low base with small + medium planter, £671 www.elementa.no

14 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Jo Andersson Designs

Scratched but Awesome, 2018.

Kari’s Vas, 2018.

Layers, 2018.

Glassblowing — the art of positivity and love After working with glassblowing in the United States, Jo Andersson decided to move to Sweden to pursue her vision of starting her own brand. Two years later, Andersson stays guided by her leading words of “self-love and positivity”, as both her products and personal artwork continue to grow in the Swedish art world.

By Hanna Stjernström | Photos: Jo Andersson Designs/Kimberly Hero

“I have always been drawn to glassblowing and being creative,” says Jo Andersson, designer and artist at Jo Andersson Designs. Growing up in the US with Swedish parents who are both entrepreneurs, Andersson chose the creative path. After completing her bachelor’s, she worked for different artists in Seattle, WA, before moving across the Atlantic. The choice of country, however, turned out to be decided by coincidence. A couple who bought art from Andersson connected her to a group of art students on a field trip in Seattle, and the teacher of the group encouraged her to apply to the National School of Glass in Nybro, Sweden. “Choosing Sweden was simply by serendipity,” says Andersson, and continues: “Working at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma and being exposed to other artists was huge for my development, so the move to Nybro was an opportunity to let me continue towards personal freedom and selfexpression as an artist.”

16 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Moreover, Andersson keeps exploring new perspectives under her brand. One part of the brand focuses on functional glassware products that spread positivity, while the other focuses on installations with glass, water and sounds to create environments that induce feelings in the viewer. “I wanted to create a brand that inspires positivity, eco-consciousness and love,” she says. “The pieces are an expression of myself and give me an opportunity to connect with viewers.”

After one year in Nybro, Andersson travelled to Los Angeles during the summer to study neon glass-bending techniques,

before starting her master’s at Konstfack in Stockholm. By continuously exploring and learning, Andersson has had the opportunity to flourish on the Swedish art scene. The message of self-love and positivity remains at the heart of the brand.

“I’ve had many opportunities to meet and work with amazing glass teachers who have inspired and propelled me to work with glass,” she says. “In the future, I’d like to teach and help people to learn and grow through glass.”

Designer and artist Jo Andersson.

Retailers currently stocking Jo Andersson Designs: UrbanGlassware, Brooklyn, New York 125 KVM, Stockholm Garage by the Sea, Fjäderholmarna, Stockholm

Scratched but Awesome, air-plant/tealight holders, 2018.

Web: www.joanderssondesigns.com Instagram: @jojosunbear

High performance without the fuss Few things give a sense of freedom like speeding across open water, but boats can require a significant investment of time, energy and money to maintain. Swedish company Alukin, however, has more than ten years’ expertise in crafting boats from aluminium, which not only combine performance, sustainability and style, but are also maintenance free, allowing their customers to relax and enjoy the ride.

By Liz Longden | Photos: Alukin

When husband and wife Peter and Maria Nikula couldn’t find a boat to meet their own needs, they decided to take matters into their own hands and design their own. Their first model was released onto the market in 2008, and their company Alukin has since gone on to become one of the most sought-after names in aluminium boat production. “Our inspiration came from our own need for a sustainable, maintenance-free boat that gives a sense of freedom and a clean conscience,” explains Maria Nikula.

Alukin’s current range includes a variety of models, from smaller, open vessels to large cabin boats that can transport heavy machinery, and family weekend 18 | Issue 125 | June 2019

boats. There are, however, some things that all Alukin boats have in common.

These include performance, with hulls designed to promise great handling at all speeds; an aesthetic of stylish clean lines; and optimal comfort. Since aluminium is fully recyclable, Alukin’s boats are also a smart choice for the environment, and because the material requires no maintenance, they are perfect for those who prefer to spend their time using their boat rather than painting it. Finally, their high durability ensures that the boats can perform in almost any weather, whether they are transporting goods across an archipelago or zipping across a lake to the summer house.

“Our boats are often used by businesses as a vital piece of equipment or mode of transport that can be used in just about all weathers, apart from thick ice,” Nikula says. “But we have just as many customers who use the boats for leisure, because they like the fact that they are functional, hardwearing, comfortable and can basically be used all year round.”

Scandinavian engineering, global appeal There are few places in the world where the weather varies so dramatically between seasons as in the Nordic countries, and this is one of the reasons why all Alukin boats are built and tested in Sweden and Finland — if a boat can cope with Nordic weather, it has a good chance of coping anywhere. Another, however, is that Nordic-based production ensures that the Nikulas can closely monitor the design and manufacturing process. “It’s important for us that production is based in Scandinavia,

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Alukin

Peter Nikula.

Photo: Dropship_swe

not only because our roots are here, but also because that places it close to our biggest market,” Nikula explains. “That means we have full control over the whole supply chain, from the drawing board through to assembly.” Customers are also welcome to visit and see their boats being made. “There are no secrets,” Nikula adds. “We’re very open and happily share our expertise.”

Unsurprisingly, Alukin is also beginning to turn heads further afield. Last year, the company became a part of Nimbus Group, Scandinavia’s leading boat manufacturer, which has helped to increase Alukin’s exposure outside the Swedish market, while this year saw the launch of Alukin in Finland. And Nikula believes that interest in aluminium boats is continuing to grow worldwide.

“We can see that there’s a strong demand for sustainable and functional aluminium boats, not only in Scandinavia and some other parts of Europe, but also in other parts of the world,” she says. “Environmental concerns are becoming increasingly important, and the fact that aluminium boats are fully recyclable is significant both now and for the future. At the same time, the fact that users are liberated from time-consuming maintenance and can use the boats over different seasons, means that they are becoming more and more common in a marine context.”

Alukin’s success has not gone unnoticed by the business community either, and last year it earned the accolade of ‘Superföretag’ (super company). Conferred by the Swedish business mag-

azine Veckans Affärer, the award is an honour that recognises solid, sustainable growth and business acumen.

Despite the plaudits, however, Nikula pledges that Alukin has no intention of resting on its laurels and will continue to develop functional and versatile boats to ensure it remains at the forefront of the aluminium boat market. “Developing new models and making sure that the latest technology is available will always be an important part of our business,” she says. “Staying true to our original concept of stylish design, high functionality and long-term sustainability, we’ll continue to bring out new models to meet new challenges that arise.”

Web: www.alukin.se

Maria Nikula.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 19

Norwegian Rain regularly invites the public to take part in different cultural activities at their Oslo flagship store.

Creating a different retail experience With a sartorial take on extreme, high-performance outerwear, Norwegian Rain is inspired by Japanese sensibility and life in the rainiest city of Europe: Bergen in Norway. Focusing on creating a different retail experience, the brand offers a unique and tailored approach to their customers in their Oslo flagship store and other parts of the world.

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Norwegian Rain

“Born and raised in Bergen, the rainiest city in Europe, I didn’t want the weather to dictate what I could wear,” says creative director and manager Alexander Helle. In 2007, he met T-Michael, who already had over ten years of experience in the field of tailoring, and the duo decided to start Norwegian Rain to try to solve this challenge without compromising on functionality and stylistic preferences.

20 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Together, they created revamped rainwear with a distinct sartorial approach, carefully blending hints of Japanese sensitivity and inspired by their own life in the rain, which today sells worldwide from sunny California to rainy Bergen.

Every garment by Norwegian Rain is 100 per cent waterproof and made from recycled materials. “In today’s society, we be-

lieve it is simply a necessity for brands to choose eco-friendly materials as much as possible,” says T-Michael. In addition to being chief designer at Norwegian Rain, he also has his own brand, T-MICHAEL, characterised as a conceptual approach to tailoring.

A unique and vibrant flagship store The Oslo flagship store opened in 2017 and is located at Paleet in the old premises of the artists’ restaurant Blom, originally called Bloms Bodega – a place with a rich cultural history. Here, customers are invited to browse through T-MICHAEL’s well-cut suits, shirts, T-Kimonos, leather shoes, sunglasses and bags, while also hunting for rare, Norwegian vintage fur-

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Norwegian Rain

niture sourced and sold by Eric Beugnet of ModernTribute. Customers can also enjoy seeing the complete collection from Norwegian Rain, including their newly launched, highly anticipated, waterproof shoe collection – a must-try according to T-Michael.

Tailoring meets function and iconic vintage furniture “In Oslo, we have combined three concepts: this is where tailoring meets function and iconic vintage furniture, which all helps to create a certain ambiance in the space. Our typical customer is someone who is concerned with quality, style, and craftsmanship – men and women who are fashion conscious while also being attentive to where their clothes come from,” says T-Michael.

“The building’s history and charm make a great backdrop for our products. The philosophy is to challenge what people expect from traditional retail experiences and instead offer something unique and different: the iconic pieces of furniture, and the grand fountain in the middle, which is an aesthetic focal point when you visit,” Helle explains. “In line with the origin of the premises, which was a place where many of Norway’s great poets got together for a drink in the late 1800s, we regularly invite the public to take part in different cultural activities – everything from slam poetry by Fredrik Høyer, to performance art, design lectures, wine

Alexander Helle and T-Michael.

Photo: Ko Tsuchiya

tastings, and even guest plays by the Norwegian Theatre.” You never know; you might be stepping inside a film set on your next shopping trip.

The duo’s desire for the premises to be alive and to be experienced, both during the day and at night, is a key factor in its uniqueness and growing success. With this aspiration to create a different shopping approach, it is possible to rent the space or collaborate with them on events held inside the shop to inspire both employees and customers. “We hope the combination of functional clothes, smart accessories and iconic furniture, along with the magnificent setting, can inspire and enhance your experience in our shop,” says T-Michael.

Around the world Today, Norwegian Rain has flagship stores not only in Oslo, but also in Paris,

Gdansk jacket. Photo: Darrel Hunter

Tokyo and Bergen. In Paris, one can walk through and indulge in the authentic Parisian atmosphere in a beautiful house with its own garden, nestled in the heart of the Marais, to discover a showroom with beauty and calmness as key factors.

In contrast, the Tokyo store is placed in an original Japanese house from 1940, with a typical garden on the second floor and a hidden bar offering local delights.

Back home in Norway, in the flagship store in Bergen, situated in the middle of the city centre, visitors can see where the designs are born, with the tailoring studio of T-MICHAEL located in the basement.

“All of our shops have their own special aura, but what they all have in common is our philosophy of creating a different retail experience,” says Helle. “We like to be near our customers in physical shops, something that also inspires us and helps us grow.”

Norwegian Rain / T-MICHAEL flagship stores: Oslo: Paleet, ground floor, Karl Johansgate 41 Paris: Ruelle Sourdis, Le Marais (entrance via Rue Pastourelle 15-17) Tokyo: 1-12-6 Kanda Sudacho, Chiyoda-Ku Bergen: Christian Michelsensgate 1, Tårnplass

Meet the Raincho, a sculptural, Japanese-inspired unisex garment.

Photo: Thea Lovstad

Limited edition Sunflower Raincho.

Photo: David Pattinson

Web shop: www.norwegianrain.com www.t-michael.com Facebook: NorwegianRain Instagram: @norwegianrain @tmichael_bergen

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 21

The goal of Krabat’s products is reducing the stigma of disability by designing fun, aesthetically pleasing tools for movement.

Innovative tools for every child’s movement Combining functionality for all, flexibility, quality and appealing aesthetics, Krabat has been championing movement since 2006. Developing technical tools for children and youths in close cooperation with engineers and physical therapists, the company’s results have been nothing short of astounding – and it shows in testimonials from families across the world.

By Julie Linden | Photos: Heidi Dokter / Krabat

“It’s important to us to establish and maintain contact with the end user to really see how our tools and aids impact their lives,” says manager Kristine Westby. She underlines the importance of honing this close proximity between development, production and end result, a process industrial designer Andreas Langdalen Sørensen sees as equally imperative. “It’s incredibly important to get it right, and we’ve spent a long time perfecting our process and our craft,” he 22 | Issue 125 | June 2019

says. “More so than anything, we pride ourselves on enabling movement by making tools that do something no other products on the market do; these products fill a gap and have been created with intentionality and functionality in mind.”

Functionality above all For Krabat, the proof of a task well done can be found in the countless testimonials and stories that have come their way from grateful parents of thriv-

Krabat’s line of products provides the adjustment needed for the comfort of every child. Photo: André Folkedal

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Krabat

ing children. One such story comes from Eveline, a 14-year-old happy and sociable girl from Oslo, and her family. Living with bilateral cerebral palsy, Eveline was in need of a seat aid to stabilise her pelvis and spine, in order to prevent the development of scoliosis.

When fitted with the Jockey Plus and Sheriff Plus chair, including its novel waist belt, side support and sternum vest, Eveline was able to utilise the open hip angle of the seat aid to actively support herself. She has been successfully using the equipment for several years.

“The Sheriff Plus utilises a saddle seat that maintains the stability of the spinal column, liberating arms and hands.

Furthermore the head remains centrally positioned, allowing for maximum social interaction,” says Westby, emphasising the company’s commitment to functionality above all else.

Krabat creates tools for kids on the move.

Breaking new ground Fully in line with Krabat’s commitment to breaking new ground in the development of movement aids, is the newest member of the Krabat product family: Krabat Runner. This combined scooter and walking bike is designed to clear boundaries between able-bodied children and children with disabilities, and is the result of a two-year-long project. “Until now, there has been no such product for children with disabilities, and we wanted to do something about that at Krabat,” says Langdalen Sørensen. With its three wheels, Krabat Runner is a more stable scooter than similar products found on the market. The seat, which is easily removed as needed, transforms the scooter into a walking bike. Westby is excited about the prospects of the new product: “The goal of my work as a physiotherapist is for children with special needs to have the opportunity to live active lives with their families and other children, and Krabat Runner can provide just that.”

Caring design – reducing stigma A key goal has been to reduce the stigma of disability by not only providing tools to assist the child in their daily life, but also making aesthetically pleasing products that have a ‘cool factor’ – all in all striving to relieve the product of any features

The Krabat Runner has a versatile and functional design.

that could potentially add to, or in any way perpetuate, the stigma. For Krabat, developing an appealing and functional design also means that the aid is used more and that greater progress with the tool can be expected. “For me, that’s one of the most important parts of my job,” says Langdalen Sørensen. “Making products that have a well thoughtthrough design to them is pivotal to what we do.”

He says he is certain that it’s the potent mix of professionals and multifaceted skills at Krabat that makes the company one of a kind. “Our strength is the people who work here and the expertise they possess,” he says. In order to develop and produce new and innovative products, Krabat boasts a large variety of professional groups on their team, including industrial designers, engineers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, technicians and administrative personnel. “We aim to have and maintain a flat company structure to ensure that all our professional groups are included in our projects,” adds Langdalen Sørensen.

Krabat’s Runner has three wheels, making it more stable than other scooters on the market.

Krabat has merged with Hepro, and the merged company is a part of AddLife, selling products throughout Europe.

Hepro develops, produces and sells tools for adults and the elderly, complementing the Krabat range of products well.

Web: www.krabat.no

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 23

Photo: James Tomlinson

Pushing the limits of what is possible Hallberg-Rassy is known far and wide for its sturdy sailing boats with superb craftsmanship and seaworthiness. The boats are loved for their easy handling, elegance and spirited performance. Visitors at Scandinavia’s biggest sailboat show, Open Yard, have the opportunity to take a sneak peek at the newest beauty, the 40C.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Hallberg-Rassy

Based in Ellös on the island of Orust in the Swedish archipelago, yacht-building company Hallberg-Rassy has a dual history. The Hallberg shipyard was established in 1943 by Harry Hallberg, and in the 1960s, Christoph Rassy set up business in the same field. When Hallberg retired, Rassy was looking for bigger facilities and took over in 1972. The family owns the company still today.

Since 1988, all yachts in the current range have been designed by the 24 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Argentinian engineer and yacht designer Germán Frers, claimed to be the most talented yacht designer of our time. Frers brings the experience of successes in the Volvo Ocean Race and in America’s Cup, and combines this with the fine traditions that have made Hallberg-Rassy a world-famous yacht builder. Hallberg-Rassy, which turns a respectable 76 this year, has built an impressive 9,450 boats. All of them have been delivered on time and found homes around the world.

The most impressive cruising boat Hallberg-Rassy is renowned for its sturdiness, seaworthiness, comfort, safety, and fine wood-work. The boats are easy to handle by a small crew. “Over the years, we have been able to balance tradition and innovation,” explains CEO Magnus Rassy. “We have specialised in doing one thing only and doing it well.

Our concept is clear, with well-built

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Hallberg-Rassy

boats for long-distance sailing, and each model is a step forward, building on the great experience of the brand.”

On the question of which boat he is most proud of, Rassy says with a smile: “It’s always the latest one. For us, Hallberg-Rassy 57 is the newest and most impressive boat around. This boat is better in every way, in terms of both sailing performance and comfort.”

The new world cruiser follows the commercial success of the Hallberg-Rassy 44 and 340. From living space and storage to performance and handling, all have been improved and the 57 ensures fast, easy and comfortable sailing at a new level. It has even been nominated for European Yacht of the Year 2019 in the Luxury Cruiser category. That means that Hallberg-Rassy 57 has been ranked as one of the most interesting and promising newcomers of its class.

Scandinavia’s largest sailboat show For the 26th year, Hallberg-Rassy is organising Scandinavia’s largest sailboat show this summer. Open Yard takes place from 23 to 25 August in Ellös. Visitors can see new and premium used boats from a wide range of manufacturers, as well as plenty of equipment for boats, and listen to talks about long-

distance sailing. There is also a Caribbean restaurant for the hungry crowd in attendance. The show is free and attracts around 20,000 curious visitors from around the world every year.

One of the highlights this year is a preview of the all-new Hallberg-Rassy 40C, which will be launched next year.

It is claimed to push the limits of what is possible. When the larger sister, Hallberg-Rassy 44, was introduced, it was a bold step forward in terms of interior comfort, sailing performance and

looks. As per a quote from a test report in Yachting World: “The Hallberg-Rassy 44 in some ways shocked me. I expected the comfort and luxury, but aspects of the sailing performance genuinely blew me away.” And the new 40C is just as good when it comes to saloon, aft cabin and galley. A fantastic sailing performance awaits!

Web: www.hallberg-rassy.com Facebook: hallbergrassy Instagram: @hallbergrassy

Photo: James Tomlinson

Photo: James Tomlinson

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 25

Danish design company dbramante1928 handcrafts its premium case and carrying solutions in high-quality Indian full-grain leather for iPads, laptops, phone and Apple Watch devices.

Classic design and human aid — two sides of the same (phone) case Classic phone, iPad, laptop and Apple Watch case and carrying solutions hand-crafted in the best-quality full-grain Indian leather – it might not sound revolutionary, but it is at the heart of a story of success in both business and human aid. Danish Company dbramante1928 sells its products in 30 countries, and as the sales continue to grow, so does its support for the Danish charity LittleBigHelp, which works to create better opportunities for the women and children of West Bengal in India.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: dbramante1928

With a good idea, the desire to do things right, and the design principles of a very old Italian, CEO and co-founder of dbramante1928, Dennis Dress, has turned a simple concept into a hugely successful business. In 2011, focusing on high-quality leather covers, cases and straps for smart phones, laptops and other electronics, Dress and co-founder Jan Muntz began their production in Kolkata’s booming and highly experienced leather industry. The compa26 | Issue 125 | June 2019

ny almost immediately struck a chord with the quality- and design-conscious buyers of leading smartphone brands.

"When the iPhone 4 came to Europe in 2011, the market changed definitively – that’s when everyone started buying smartphones,” says Dress. “And, the kind of people who buy high-end smartphones are people who are into quality and design – they don’t want a cheap plastic cover with pink monkeys on, they want something in high-quality materi-

als and elegant designs, and they want something that will last. It also makes environmental sense, rather than just buying and throwing away cheap plastic products.”

Having started out with a production site of 60 employees in Kolkata, India, dbramante1928 today has three production sites employing more than 600 people, and products are sold in more than 7,000 shops all over the world. From every product sold, dbramante1928 donates a fixed amount to the charity LittleBigHelp.

Classic design and eye-catching colours As the name reveals (Donato Bramante was an Italian renaissance architect who designed the plan for St. Peter’s Basilica), dbramante1928’s designs are

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | dbramante1928

based on an admiration for timeless principles, such as the golden ratio. The classic and durable designs immediately made the products a hit with consumers of the same mindset as the founders, mainly men. However, to reach the more detail-orientated female audience, Dress realised that it was necessary to get a bit more fashion savvy. “Three years ago, we came up with the idea of creating a range of products in Saffiano leather, a type of leather made through a process that makes it possible to dye it in fashionable colours, without compromising the leather’s resilience and resistance to water and scratches,” he explains. “To do this, we teamed up with a great fashion agency, Femmes Regionales, because, while we’re really good at leather, we’re two 40-year-old men, and we had to accept that we didn’t know anything about those little details that appeal to women. But Femmes Regionale do, and they’ve done a splendid job. They’ve been a great help in ensuring that everything from the design to the packaging and branding has been just right.”

This collaboration resulted in the MODE. collection, a range of stylish covers, straps and bags made in trendy Saffiano colours. Launched three years ago, the MODE. collection is now the company’s fastest-growing product category.

One million leather workers Taking into consideration that the cow is a holy animal amongst India’s Hindus, many might find it surprising that the country has a booming leather industry.

But as a matter of fact, India has among the world’s biggest volumes of livestock – about 500 million of India’s population are non-Hindus or non-practising Hindus – and that means that the leather industry is never short of materials.

“The only thing it means is that it is not legal to kill a cow for its skin only, so all the skin we get is a biproduct from the meat industry,” explains Dress. “That in turn means that it is cheaper than other places, and combined with the fact that it’s a huge industry with a lot of very skilled people – University of Calcutta has a four-year course in leather and tanning – this makes it the perfect place

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 27

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | dbramante1928

Three years ago, dbramante1928 launched the MODE. collection, which combines high-quality Saffiano leather with fahionable colours and details.

for our production. It is the reason why we can sell the best full-grain leather products at the prices we do – put simply, it allows us to produce ‘affordable luxury’.”

Like all other companies producing products for the EU, dbramante1928’s production follows the EU’s REACH regulations for the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals in the tanning process. And unlike what many people think, the fact that Kolkata’s leather industry is more than 100 years old and employing more than one million people also means that it is better regulated and controlled than many newer leather industries, says Dress. However, he adds, there are of course some moral issues that need to be addressed when producing in a country like India. “We try to implement 28 | Issue 125 | June 2019

what we internally call the ‘do good’ principle, and that means that we aim to give something back to the society we produce in. We do that in a lot of ways, but it starts in our own factories, where we work with the BCSI standard to certify that we have fair work conditions. To get the certification, our factories have to go through unannounced check-ups to ensure that everything is in order, that the employees are not exposed to chemicals, that there are no underage workers, that employees have proper toilet facilities and so on – it’s just the right way to do things, but it’s also a way for us to guarantee our vendors that they will never risk getting bad publicity by working with us.”

In addition to meeting the BCSI standard, dbramante1928 provides all its regular employees and their families

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | dbramante1928

with health insurance, something that not only gives the employees security, but also makes the factories a popular workplace. “It all means that we are able to attract and keep the best of the area’s workers, so that way, it also makes good business sense,” stresses Dress.

A LittleBigHelp There is one part of dbramante1928’s work in India, however, that is not driven by business sense, but purely by the urge to help those worst off in the West Bengal society. That is the company’s work with and support for the Danish charity LittleBigHelp. The organisation, which was founded by Danish Lisbeth Johansen, has been featured in several Danish documentaries, and is well-known for its work for homeless children and their families. Dress and Muntz were introduced to Johansen by dbramante1928’s Indian production manager, after he had seen the horror that the meeting with India’s many homeless children sparked in the two Europeans. “LittleBigHelp has nothing to do with business – it’s just something we have to do. Once you’ve been here and seen how things are – thousands of children sleeping on the street – you have to do something, to give something back,” says Dress matter-of-factly. “We give the charity money, but we also try to involve our customers; for instance, we have the ‘what can you get for five kroner’ programme with Telia Norway.

Through that, we donate five kroner to LittleBigHelp for every product sold together, and though five kroner doesn’t sound like a lot, it can actually send a child to school for a month or provide three meals a day for five days,” stresses Dress, and rounds off: “It’s a way for us to help spread the word about LittleBigHelp’s important work and the difference that can be made by even small contributions. We do what we can, and knowing that when our business does well, so does LittleBigHelp, is a great feeling.”

Web: www.dbramante1928.com and www.littlebighelp.com

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 29

Express your personality with accessories This year, jewellery brand By Jolima celebrates ten years of fashion. The collections of stylish accessories add a touch of feminine luxury, in celebration of all women.

By Malin Norman | Photos: By Jolima

Swedish brand By Jolima was founded in 2009 by talented designer Josefine Nilsson. For the past ten years, she has pursued her dream of creating feminine and elegant designs. Her vision is to produce jewellery that adds a sense of fashion, with a touch of luxury. “Women should be celebrated and able to feel both beautiful and special,” she says.

“Accessories can be a way of showing your personality, to express yourself.”

Before setting up her own brand, Nilsson worked for two other jewellery designers, one of which is based in Paris.

Every season, she travels back to Paris in search for inspiration. “There is a fan30 | Issue 125 | June 2019

tastic range and diversity available there, and French women tend to wear a lot of accessories. I like watching what they are wearing, seeing if they do casual or dressed up – it’s quite fascinating.”

At the very beginning, Nilsson actually designed clothes and accessories, but now the core of the company is very much about jewellery. “Since I was a child, I have been passionate about accessories and stylish details, and it was a dream to have my own fashion brand,” she explains. “By Jolima includes the initials of my names, Josefine Lilly Margareta, and is a love story for my creativity.”

Handmade and handpicked The production is based in China at small, privately owned factories, where Nilsson is in close contact with the management Josefine Nilsson.

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | By Jolima

teams as well as the actual workers who produce the jewellery. She visits several times per year, and is greatly inspired by Hong Kong, for instance. “During the past ten years, we have established a longterm relationship with our producers.

They have seen us grow and take care of us like we are part of the family when we visit. There is a special bond.”

Inspired mainly by her travels abroad, including to Paris, of course, By Jolima creates two main collections of earrings, bracelets, rings and necklaces per year, and two in-season releases. The collections consist of stainless steel and gold and silver-plated brass, with carefully selected Swarovski crystals, glass and natural stones. Everything is handmade using sustainable materials and comes with a two-year warranty. “Even if this is about design, it should be made to last. That’s why I’m always thorough when selecting

materials and choosing my suppliers. It’s a question of sustainability and integrating this ethos into fashion.”

In her designs, Nilsson works with classic expressions that last over time, and the jewellery can be combined and worn for everyday use as well as special occasions. Always popular among customers is the gold jewellery, but also, more recently, pearls, crystals and glass stones.

“You should be able to wear jewellery over the years,” the designer elaborates further. “It shouldn’t get outdated but instead be mixed and matched, with layers of different bracelets, for instance. Some people are afraid of standing out, but I believe that more is more. This is how you express your personal style.”

Entrepreneurial spirit Nilsson was just 25 years old when she set up her own brand, which became an

instant success, and during the first four years, turnover doubled every year. Then she had her daughter Olivia, and shortly later, her son Carl, and quite naturally, the focus shifted to family life.

It was tough to run a business at the same time as taking care of the family, and like any other business, it has had its ups and downs. But Nilsson is still going strong and praises the support she has received. “My father has been a great support since the very beginning, helping with back office and coming with me on business trips. And I bring my children along on trips, visits to factories and exhibitions, which has worked really well.

Olivia loves to watch all my crystals, stones and sketches,” the designer smiles, “and I hope that she and her little brother will one day take over By Jolima.”

Undeniably an entrepreneur at heart, Nilsson is involved in everything from the design, of course, but also to packing orders and visiting suppliers and clients – always with plenty of ideas and somehow already a step ahead. Next in the pipeline are plans on expanding the platform for international online sales to make By Jolima available further afield. With daily requests for jewellery from shops and retailers both in Sweden and abroad, the future looks bright for By Jolima.

Web: www.byjolima.com Facebook: byjolima Instagram: @byjolima_official

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 31

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Huldresølv AS

Huldresølv’s jewellery is inspired by the Norwegian mythical siren, Huldra.

Inspired by Huldra With her enticing beauty, power and charisma, Norwegian mythical temptress Huldra has popped up in folklore for centuries. Luring men deep into the woods, her true nature is revealed only by the tail that can sometimes be spotted underneath her skirt.

By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Huldresølv

She is an enchantress, who has inspired artists throughout the centuries. Yet still today, in modern times, her beauty and magic have a strong presence in Norwegian and Nordic art. One of the brands embracing Huldra’s presence is jewellery-maker Huldresølv.

“She is our muse,” says CEO Annette Misje Bjerkøen when talking about the delicate pieces of silver jewellery Huldresølv produces. “Everything we pick up is from her world.” With inspiration from flowers and plants, the pieces of jewellery are more than just items of beauty; they’re also symbols of life, strength and love. “Huldra was strong,” Bjerkøen says. “She was incredibly powerful, and we want each person that wears a piece of our jewellery to feel as powerful and as beautiful as her.”

32 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Founded in 1994, Huldresølv now sells its pieces all over Norway, as well as abroad. Nordic design and handmade crafts are in high demand. “Our jewellery has soul,” Berkøen says, “soul and history. That is important to people.”

Their new collection is called Løv (‘leaf’) and is inspired by the mountain birch. “The birch is a symbol of spring,” Bjerkøen explains. “It’s fresh and powerful, and the sound it makes in the wind is magnificent. We want to keep the appearance of the leaves in our jewellery.

You’ll even be able to recognise the way they grow, and the way they’re assembled allows them to move in the same fashion the leaves do in nature.”

Another part of Huldresølv’s work is the ‘bunadssølje’, brooches meant for the

Norwegian national costume, the bunad.

Huldresølv looks back into the country’s bunad history to find designs and then modernise them using Swarovski crystals and fresh-water pearls. When you put a bunad on, you should feel proud and fabulous, and the different søljer emphasise the effect. Søljer are also beautiful on dresses, suits and scarves for other occasions too.

Huldresølv’s love for nature plays a big part in the designs, and also in the production. The silver used for the pieces is recycled and re-used, all in order to make sure that the future is safe and clean for people, nature and Huldra alike.

Løv earrings.

Web: www.huldresolv.no Facebook: huldresolv Instagram: @huldresolv

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Snooozeworld

The key to perfect sleep, anywhere Frequent travellers can rest easy: the Snoooze pillow is the first genuine travel pillow to provide real comfort and support, as well as a sense of home when travelling.

think, because there is nothing else like it on the market and there is a demand for a good-quality pillow when travelling.”

By Jane Graham | Photos: Snooozeworld

What could be more important than a good night’s sleep? Especially when travelling, enjoying uninterrupted sleep and waking up feeling completely rested can be a challenge – and is also crucial to ensuring that a mini-break really is relaxing, or that meetings with clients go as smoothly as possible. We simply perform better having slept well.

After working as a designer for over two decades, Ann Sjøgreen Sanger is no stranger to the search for a decent night’s sleep. In January 2018, after yet another restless night on lumpy, uncomfortable hotel pillows, Sjøgreen Sanger had an idea: What if she could find a pillow soft enough to give her that longed-for sense of home?

After spending many hours searching for a product that did not exist, Sjøgreen Sanger used her design background to

create her own product. For her, one thing was key: the quality had to be top.

“It had to feel just like down,” Sjøgreen Sanger explains, noting that actual down breaks when you bend it too much. “We wanted to create a product that you could fold up easily into a travel bag, but that was also as comfortable as the pillow you left at home.”

Undaunted, she found a UK manufacturer up for the challenge. Together, they came up with a unique zip feature that enables airflow into the pillow when you unzip it, giving you that wonderfully luxurious, fluffed-up feeling.

Sjøgreen Sanger began pitching her idea in the autumn of 2018 and instantly grabbed people’s interest. “Everyone who saw it liked the idea. The response has been overwhelmingly positive – mainly, I

The Snoooze pillow was launched in January as a ready-to-use package with travel bag and pure-cotton pillowcase, and is on sale in Case Luggage in Piccadilly, Heathrow and Gatwick, as well as in Illums Bolighus at Copenhagen Airport, with more shops coming soon.

The company, Snooozeworld, is now expanding into other products, including coloured pillowcases, a silk sleep mask, and a more basic ‘mini Snoooze’ pillow.

All of the products can be purchased directly from the website and shipped to anywhere in the world.

Web: www.snooozeworld.com Instagram: @snooozeworld

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 33

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Stolbjerg Copenhagen

Made to last for generations Honest materials, handmade products and long-lasting designs – these are the key elements behind the success of the new Danish design brand Stolbjerg Copenhagen. Producing a small collection of sustainable and functional fashion accessories, the company has struck a chord with socially conscious design fans.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Stolbjerg Copenhagen

Stolbjerg Copenhagen is not just another fashion brand. Created by Frederikke Xenia Stolbjerg and her husband Anders Sandberg, the idea for the company first arose as the couple – and their three kids – were on a three-month trip around Asia in 2015. “The story began when, one night as we were preparing to go to bed under the mosquito net, we were talking about how annoying it was that it wasn’t possible to find a travel bag with enough separate pockets for all of our stuff. We agreed that it had to be possible to do something about that, and Anders came up with the idea of creating a bag which was split into pockets and could be hung up or folded up and used as a backpack.”

The next morning, the couple travelled down to the local tailor to have the first 34 | Issue 125 | June 2019

version of their travel bag made. As their travels continued, they experienced a lot of interest and envy from other travellers, and thus the idea of leaving their teaching jobs behind them and embarking on a new design adventure began to take form.

Back in Denmark, however, it was not the bags, but an engraved keyring made in naturally dyed grain leather that became Stolbjerg Copenhagen’s first success. An Instagram picture of the stylish keyring, which, like Stolbjerg Copenhagen’s other products, can be made with individual engravings, was received with a storm of demand. Like many other products, the key ring is handmade in Denmark and the leather is free from any harmful chemicals. This is not just for the benefit of the people who buy the products,

but also for the environment and for the people who make them. “When we talked about starting our own design company, one of our biggest concerns was whether we could really justify creating yet another fashion brand when really the last thing the world needs is more things,” explains Stolbjerg. “We agreed that our brand could only be justified by making sure that our products were made in a socially and environmentally sustainable way, and made to last for generations.”

Frederikke Xenia Stolbjerg.

Web: www.stolbjergcopenhagen.com

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Auping

Wake up energised in a sustainable bed every day Auping is an award-winning company with more than 130 years of expertise. They are committed not only to creating optimum comfort at the highest level, but also to being fully sustainable by 2020. An Auping bed is an investment in your wellbeing as well as the future.

cent in June, when Auping installs solar cells on the roof of its factory. “We are ready to accept our responsibility and help create a sustainable future,” says Kim.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Auping

Did you know that you spend roughly a third of your life sleeping? You might then want to consider spending that time in a very good bed. As they say at Auping: a rested world is a better world. “The better you sleep, the more energy you have. Your brain recharges when you sleep, which is why a good night’s sleep – and therefore a good bed – is crucial,” explains Kim Elmer Nielsen, the Scandinavian market director at Auping.

Fully sustainable by 2020

When you choose an Auping bed, you are getting the very best. It is important that your bed supports your body, which is why you should not simply choose a random mattress; you need to sleep on a mattress that supports your unique body.

“With an Auping bed, you will start the day well rested, because the mattress provides your body with optimal support and excellent ventilation,” Kim explains.

The company is already well on its way to reaching this ambitious goal. Since 2010, Auping has reduced the use of fossil fuels by 90 per cent, and they are currently working on solutions that will make the company fully sustainable by 2020. Furthermore, Auping has reduced its electricity consumption by 30 per cent, and they receive their energy from wind power.

This will be reduced an additional 35 per

With an Auping bed, you are not only investing in your wellbeing, you are also investing in innovation and a sustainable future. “Auping is committed to being 100 per cent sustainable by 2020. Our goal is to organise all operations processes, products and services fully according to the cradle-to-cradle philosophy, meaning that waste is not simply thrown out, but it becomes a component for something else,” says Kim.

Tips for getting a good night’s sleep: • Firstly, of course: an Auping bed.

• Let in some fresh air before you go to sleep.

• No blue light in the bedroom – do not sleep with your phone, TV, computer or similar gadget.

• Choose the correct mattress for your body.

• Sleep in a dark and quiet room.

• Sleep for seven to eight hours every night.

• Drink water when you wake up.

Web: www.auping.com/en Facebook: Auping Instagram: @aupingscandinavia

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 35

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Nicojoli / I-GO

A golf dress for a woman in motion After many years of golfing in uncomfortable – and not very flattering – outfits, Carina Lindeberg sat down and asked herself: ‘What do I want to wear?’. The answer was this: a golf dress, made for elegance and comfort.

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Nicojoli

“It all started when I was going abroad for a golf trip. I looked for a golf dress that would work in both heat and rain, and which would make me feel beautiful. But I couldn’t find one, not in Sweden, not in America, not in Germany. So, I decided to do it myself,” says Carina Lindeberg, founder and CEO of Nicojoli.

Lindeberg is passionate about quality, and it was this quest for quality that led her to where she is today. “I heard about this fabric made with tencel, and it sounded amazing.

It is made from eucalyptus and doesn’t drain the water level in the same way cotton does.

It is stretchy, it dries easily, and it is perfect for working out in. I found the fabric, contacted a factory in Portugal that uses it, and we’ve been working together ever since.”

Nicojoli’s first collection was launched in 2015 and has continued to develop since.

“Over the years, we’ve tried the dress on women of all shapes and sizes, but also in different types of climate and on different grounds. I’ve realised that the product is immensely needed. But our dresses are not only for the golf course; you can also wear them when playing tennis or going out for a walk, or take them straight to an after-work event. They are multi-functional.”

For the future, Lindeberg wants to expand her brand. “I love developing products.

I could sit and sketch all day long – and if we come up with additional products for Nicojoli, they will be as fashionable, multifunctional and exclusive as this dress,” she smiles.

Web: www.nicojoli.se Instagram: @nicojoli.se

The solution to traffic jams and walking the last mile Do you dread rush hour? Do you hate paying to bring your bike onto the train? Are you unsure what to do about that last mile, when you get off public transport and need to reach your final destination? Well, enter the growing craze of electric scooters.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: I-GO

We have all been there: stuck in traffic, unable to find a parking space, and when you finally reach your destination and find a spot, you have to pay a small fortune to park there. But there is a solution to avoid the madness. That solution is called I-GO – a company that sells electric scooters.

“Electric scooters are brilliant for city people. You don’t have to worry about

parking, traffic, paying to bring it with you on the train – and it is perfect for that last mile between the public transport stop and your destination,” explains Jesper Knudsen, founder of I-GO. You can fold your I-GO electric scooter, so it takes up very little space and is light-weight, making it great for bringing on public transport, a camping trip, or on your boat.

When you choose an I-GO electric scooter, you get the best. Traditionally, the motor, the battery, and the controller are at the front of the scooter, making it unbalanced and harder to drive. “I-GO places the motor at the rear wheel and the battery and the controller under the deck, meaning that you’re standing on the heaviest part of the scooter. This makes it significantly safer to drive. It is a completely different experience,” says Knudsen.

Web: www.i-go.dk Facebook: igo.freedom.unlimited Instagram: @igo.freedom.unlimited

36 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Scan Magazine | Art Feature | Emma Järvenpää

Photo: Emma Järvenpää

Ground-breaking collaging With an ambition to create and a passion for breaking new ground, Emma Järvenpää has torn limitations – as well as magazines – apart to fulfil her dream to become an artist. “I never meant to sell my art. It just happened. I started posting my collages on Instagram, and a family friend bought one, then a colleague did the same, and it took off.”

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Johan Palmgren

Emma Järvenpää, 35, creates collages, a craft she first got into as she spent four months in Austin, Texas, in 2014. “My partner’s father is an artist, and he let me play around with his material, which was a lot. His whole family are creatives, and they are very encouraging, which made me see my talent. I have always known that I was creative, but my partner’s family and Texas showed me new ways to do it.”

It has not always been easy, though; one of Emma’s biggest triumphs was letting

go of all the rules and standards set by other people. “My development has more to do with me than with what I create. I have learnt to let go. Before, I’ve always considered who might like my art, where it might end up, and I looked past what I liked. It took time, but I don’t question what I create anymore, which has been my greatest victory.”

Emma’s success goes hand in hand with the art she loves, which includes powerful images and rule-breaking charac-

Emma Järvenpää.

38 | Issue 125 | June 2019

ters. “I am inspired by free spirits and believe that more is more. One of my favourite people to get inspired by is Amy Winehouse, who always walked her own way; the same goes for Frida Kahlo, Marilyn Monroe, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Niki de Saint Phalle. Places also inspire me: I love Italy, Texas and Arabic architecture; everything that is a bit over the top. But I would also say that I am drawn to imperfection, to roughness.”

All genders tend to buy and appreciate Emma’s collages, which is quite rare when it comes to art. “I’d like to think of my customers as people who are similar to myself – open-minded and curious. I would also like to meet more of them, which is difficult since I mostly sell through galleries. But this year, I might be able to meet some customers when I attend an exhibition at First Hotel G in Gothenburg in September, and the Affordable Art Fair in Stockholm in October. I also have a studio at Spinneriet, an old spinning factory, which is now the home of me and 20 other creatives – a great place for further progress.”

Web: www.emmajarvenpaa.com Instagram: @emmajarvenpaa.art

Scan Magazine | Art Feature | Stavanger Kunstmuseum

Photo: Jone Erland/Museum Stavanger

Other than the exhibitions, visitors can also enjoy food and drinks at the museum’s café, located in a glass dome. Photo: Elisabeth Tønnesen/Museum

In addition to Flora, the museum also has several interesting regular exhibitions.

Photo: Anne Lise Norheim/Museum Stavanger

Art in the name of nature At a time when the relationship between humans and nature is more relevant than ever, Stavanger Kunstmuseum invites visitors to the new exhibition Flora – between plants and people, an exhibition that gives flowers and plants a voice.

tion. It is surrounded by idyllic nature in a popular hiking area, located only three kilometres from Stavanger city centre.

By Synne Johnsson

“I really recommend the museum,” Ueland says, “for both its great exhibitions and its unique art collection, but also for the beautiful surroundings. This truly is a relaxing and inspiring place to visit.”

Flora showcases the use of plants and flowers in art and focuses on how flowers are pictured and thematised. It also goes back to historical floras and the overview works that mapped out nature.

In the exhibition, visitors can see works from, among others, Dahn Vo, Ingela Ihrmann, Alberto Baraya, Gerd Tinglum and Joscelyn Gardner. The exhibition runs until 13 October.

“Flora has everything from an eightmetre-long sculpture of a hogweed to pieces that display invading plants in the museum’s park,” says museum director Hanne Beate Ueland. “We live in a time when we need to re-evaluate our relationship with nature, and this exhibition challenges how we relate to it.” The starting point for the exhibition is Flora Danica and other botanical books made to classify and categorise nature. “Today it is relevant to question the hierarchies in how we perceive nature, and the notion of power is central to the exhibition,” Ueland says.

Paintings, video installations and idyllic nature The museum presents a large variety of exhibitions of high quality. In addition to Flora, it also showcases regular exhibitions such as Frida Hansen’s unique tapestries and Lars Hertervig’s and Kitty Kielland’s landscape paintings. The museum also has two video installations by the internationally recognised video artist Bill Viola.

“Visitors can expect a lot of interesting and varied forms of art, as well as the possibility to eat or have a coffee in our lovely cafe, which is located in a beautiful glass dome. We also have a book shop in the museum, which sells a large selection of art books,” Ueland adds.

The museum opened in 1991, in the building designed by architect Per Faltinsen, and is one of Stavanger’s oldest art institutions. It contains work from as far back as 1865 as well as the establishment of Stavanger art associa-

Antony Gormley, Broken Column, 1999-2003. Photo: Terje Bakke/Nordic Life/ Region Stavanger

Web: stavangerkunstmuseum.no Facebook: Stavanger Kunstmuseum Instagram: @stavangerkunstmuseum Twitter: @stavangerkunstm

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 39

MillCamp Game Academy’s building used to be a primary school from 1837 to 1947. Now it is the setting for a new kind of school.

An entrepreneurial approach to learning In August, MillCamp Game Academy will welcome the first students to the new one-year programme in entrepreneurship. Ingerlil Teute is realising her long-time dream of creating a different kind of school suitable for young people full of ideas.

By Emilie Kristensen-McLachlan | Photos: MillCamp Game Academy

Ingerlil Teute comes from a family of teachers: not only her parents, but also her siblings have all been teachers. In spite of that, she was never all that interested in school. “I thought most subjects were boring. I couldn’t understand why we had to sit still and look at a blackboard and hear about topics we weren’t interested in. Learning should be driven by your interests,” she says.

It has been her long-time dream to create a different kind of school, a different 40 | Issue 125 | June 2019

way to learn. And now it is coming true.

In August, Ingerlil will open the doors to the new International Entrepreneurship Education at MillCamp Game Academy.

Together with partners in Finland and Estonia, and with support from Erasmus+, she has created a one-year curriculum and a methodology that will focus on the interests of the students who attend.

Entrepreneurship and learning MillCamp Game Academy is inspired by the Danish ‘efterskole’, a type of board-

ing school where young people stay away from home and learn to stand on their own two feet in a safe environment. But MillCamp Game Academy is different when it comes to the subjects taught. “It is a one-year programme in entrepreneurship for young people who are between 15 and 26 years old. It is for youngsters who have an idea and want to do something about it but need the tools and the help to get it started,” Ingerlil says.

It is a practical approach where the students learn the steps and milestones of the entrepreneurial process. The first semester is about personal development and developing the entrepreneurial mindset. The second semester focuses

Scan Magazine | Education Feature | MillCamp Game Academy

on an incubator process, where the students learn how to develop their own ideas into products or businesses. “We start the second semester with an EduJam and an EduHack. EduJam is where you generate and develop ideas. EduHack is prototyping,” Ingerlil explains.

A new kind of school The setting for the education centre MillCamp Game Academy couldn’t be more fitting. In 2015, Ingerlil bought the building that previously housed Høve Skole, an old farmhouse that functioned as a primary school from 1837 to 1947.

A dormitory building was added in 1973 to house crowds of young guests as a holiday camp. In the late 1990s, it served as a refugee camp, and in recent years it has been used for courses, training and events. The school is now being renovated to create an environmentally friendly boarding school. “We currently have eight young people living at the school, mainly from Argentina and Chile. They are doing a work-away stay to help get everything ready for the first school year,” says Ingerlil.

In the first school year, starting this August, a select group of 12 to 15 stu-

The EduJam is a creative design thinking process in team learning using dialogue.

The first EduJam in Denmark will be on 17 June in Asnæs. Photo: EduCraftor

dents will be accepted, and they will be taught by subject experts and supported by a team of facilitators. However, in many ways, the students will be in control of their own learning while at the academy. “In the first semester, the students select a topic each week that they are interested in. They will engage in research, ask questions, contact relevant experts and get really good at presenting. The students will also create their own ‘lookbook’, in effect make a portfolio based on their work,” Ingerlil says.

Ingerlil is convinced that a lot of young people need a different approach to learning and entering adulthood.

“MillCamp Game Academy is aimed at young people who are in that fragile part of life, where they are entering adulthood. They are full of questions like ‘what do I want to do with my life?’ and ‘what am I good at?’. This school is a chance for them to find out and learn more about themselves and their own strengths, and create a vision for their future,” she says.

EduJam: MillCamp Game Academy is hosting the first EduJam in Denmark. It will take place on 17 June in Asnæs. There are still spaces available to take part in this creative process.

To find out more, contact Ingerlil Teute.

Email: ingerlilteute@gmail.com Phone: +45 2165 6436

There are still places available for the upcoming school year. Contact Ingerlil Teute at ingerlilteute@gmail.com or +45 2165 6436 to find out more.

MillCamp Game Academy Møllestrædet 36 4550 Asnæs Denmark

The International Entrepreneurship Education takes you through processes that will bring your ideas to life.

It is a one-year entrepreneurial programme in a boarding school setting for young people who are between 15 and 26 years old.

Web: www.millcamp.net Facebook: millcampgameacademy

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 41

Scan Magazine | Education Feature | Stensbæk – Den Holistiske Højskole

Guests at Stensbæk Holistic Course Centre are immersed in a peaceful atmosphere in beautiful, natural surroundings.

An oasis free from stress and full of humanity Spend a week in silence, practising yoga or exploring your creativity. With a focus on all the layers of the human being – the body, the mind and the spirit – Den Holistiske Højskole (Stensbæk Holistic Course Centre) offers a range of special courses and retreats.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Stensbæk Holistic Course Centre

Founded in 2010, the ambition of Stensbæk Holistic Course Centre was, and still is, to create an oasis for guests to explore their creative, spiritual and physical wellbeing. Head of the school, Maria Ruben Fries Hansen, explains: “The holistic approach is at the heart of everything we do, and that means that all courses are combined in a way that connects the body, the mind, and the spirit. A lot of people have hesitations when they hear the word holistic, because they associate it with something spiritual, but in reality, all it means is that it relates to the human being as a whole.”

The holistic focus is reflected in the subjects of the courses, which include everything from yoga to creative writing, tai chi, transformational breath and a Wild West family course.

42 | Issue 125 | June 2019

When staying at the course centre, guests are not just immersed in their course subject but also in the beautiful, natural surroundings of the school, which is located in a protected area, 20 minutes from Ribe.

“When the founder of the school found this place with its amazing surroundings, she knew it was just right,” says Hansen, and rounds off. “It’s the perfect location for

a school that aims to inspire people to live in harmony with nature, themselves and others. We want to create an oasis free from stress and full of humanity.”

Facts: Stensbæk Holistic Course Centre was founded in 2010 by Linnea Beek Hansen, who today teaches the centre’s transformational breath courses.

All staff at the school (except the course instructors) work on a voluntary basis.

On top of courses, the school also hosts a number of yearly yoga retreats.

Most courses are offered in Danish.

The transformational breath courses are offered in English and are attended by participants from all over the world.

For a full list of courses and more information, see the website: www.holistisk-hojskole.dk

Scan Magazine | Culinary Feature | Kjær & Sommerfeldt

A sip of history — a taste of innovation For more than 140 years, Kjær & Sommerfeldt has been satisfying the Danes’ thirst for fine wines. However, in recent years, the company has become more than a wine merchant. Having converted its traditional shop in Copenhagen into an atmospheric event venue, the company now offers wine tastings full of history, innovation and inspiration.

fore, when it was just a wine shop, a lot of people hesitated to come in – but now it’s a place where everyone can come to enjoy a glass a wine, the atmosphere and the historic ambiance,” says Stensgaard. “It’s no longer just for the wine nerds.”

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Kjær & Sommerfeldt

Ten years ago, CEO Mads Stensgaard brought Kjær & Sommerfeldt – then part of the Swedish V&S Group – back into private hands. His ambition was to expand the historic company with a venue for unique wine experiences and events.

With the help of two anthropologists and a treasure chest of historic relics and furniture, he did just that. “During the last ten years, we have converted our location in Gammel Mønt into a universe of historic wine experiences,” says Stensgaard. “We host everything from regular open tastings to tailor-made wine events for management boards, wine clubs and anyone else who’s interested in a special experience in a historic location.”

Today, the venue hosts more than 250 wine events every year, including a number of strategy and business meetings that finish with wine and socialising. The location also includes a historic bar decorated with the old furniture and historic relics from the basement of Kjær & Sommerfeldt. “Most people who come into our bar think it’s been there since 1875, when the company opened,” says Stensgaard.

In the bar, visitors can enjoy any of the 20 different wines available by the glass, or they can explore the shelves of the shop and enjoy a bottle at retail price plus corkage. But one does not have to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy the experience. “Be-

Kjær & Sommerfeldt event venue in Gammel Mønt comprises a public wine bar and five different private tasting rooms.

The venue can host tastings for groups of all sizes up to 400 guests.

Web: www.kjaersommerfeldt.dk

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 43

Photo: Alexander Hall

Ten Scandinavian midsummer traditions for a real midsummer experience

By Linnea Dunne

1. Make a bonfire In Iceland, it’s called Jónsmessa, and in Denmark, it’s part of the Sankt Hans tradition. Both come with a good dose of superstition, as the Icelandic midsummer bonfire brings the notion that cows gain the ability to speak and seals take human form, while Danes use the bonfire as part of a ritual to repel evil spirits.

Whatever floats your boat – you can’t go wrong with a warming, crackling fire!

44 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Photo: Johan Berge, Visitnorway.com

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Top Ten Midsummer Traditions

Photo: Werner Nystrand, Visitsweden.com

2. Dance around the pole You can’t mention midsummer to a Swede without them starting to talk about dancing the frog dance. The frog dance, as it happens, is just one of many traditional dances accompanying old songs, one more bizarre than the next, and they’re all carried out in a circle around the midsummer pole, a wreath-style phallic symbol at the centre of all Swedish midsummer celebrations.

Who said Swedes are boring?

3. Have a mock wedding Arranging mock weddings is an old tradition from western Norway, originally seen as a way to celebrate new life, as is typical for the midsummer season.

These are less common now, but you can still find Norwegians, young and old, poking fun at the ritual with a mini mock wedding or two.

Photo: Unsplash

4. Dream about your future husband Another Swedish tradition is that of picking seven different kinds of flowers and putting them under your pillow when you go to bed. Legend has it that if girls do this, they will dream about their future husband at night. For a more modern take on it, swap ‘girls’ for ‘people’ and ‘husband’ for ‘partner’ – the principle still stands!

Photo: Niklas Veenhuis on Unsplash

Photo: Doris Beling, Visitsweden.com

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 45

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Top Ten Midsummer Traditions

Photo: Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash

5. Burn the witch You can’t go too PC on this or it gets a bit questionable, but the truth of the matter is that the Danish tradition of burning herb-stuffed witch dolls on the aforementioned bonfire has less to do with old suspicions of witchcraft and more to do with rituals for health and against evil spirits. Alongside the burning, there are often speeches, picnics and songs, so if you’re dubious about the witch thing, just burn something else and join in with a tune or two.

Photo: Carolina Romare, Visitsweden.com

6. Carry a table in and out – and in again Most people know that Scandinavians are huge fans of the great outdoors, keen on the saying that there’s no such thing as bad weather – only bad clothes.

As such, it’ll come as no surprise that they insist on enjoying their midsummer smörgåsbord outside, even if it requires wool cardigans and multiple blankets.

But the weather is often unpredictable at this time of year, and you will often see Scandinavians suddenly carrying in the table – dishes and all – inside as a shower strikes. Then the sun comes out, and they seize the moment – until rain starts again… It’s almost as wild as the frog dance.

7. Drink snaps – and sing snaps songs

Photo: Janus Langhorn, Visitsweden.com

46 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Snaps is a type of aquavit, and it’s central to the Swedish midsummer tradition.

Everyone gets a small glass, then a traditional so-called ‘snaps song’ is sung, and at the end there’s a cue for everyone to drink, ideally knocking back the full thing – and repeat. Yes, there’s a reason why midsummer is one of the most-loved holidays in Sweden. (But if you’re on a health buzz, don’t fret: we have tips for an alcohol-free midsummer on pages 48-51.)

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Top Ten Midsummer Traditions

Photo: Werner Nystrand

8. Go skinny dipping (in the midnight sun) Take a love of nature and add a love of nudity, and you get skinny dipping. Most lakes in Scandinavia are perfectly clean, so when you’ve had enough snaps, just strip down and go for it. If you are far enough north to get to experience the midnight sun, even better.

Photo: Werner Nystrand, Visitsweden.com

9. Enjoy pickled herring Sure, it sounds odd, but you can’t do a Nordic midsummer without pickled fish, especially herring, known as ‘sill’. Add potatoes with dill, hot smoked salmon and some rye crispbread and you’re almost there.

10. Make twistbread Twistbread, or ‘pinnbröd’ or ‘pinnebrød’, is popular throughout Scandinavia, and not only for midsummer. If you opt for a bonfire, however, this makes the perfect evening snack, and one that kids will love. So simple, so delicious.

Photo: Magnus Carlsson

Photo: Nancy Bundt, Visitnorway.com

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 47

Photo: Mikkeller

The rise of full-flavoured beer, without the hangover With an increasingly active and health-conscious lifestyle being enjoyed by consumers, the market for alcohol-free and low-alcohol beer is growing, in Scandinavia and other parts of Europe. And the brewers are on the ball, producing amazing beer with heaps of flavour and aroma, but without the alcohol – and hangover.

By Malin Norman

In Europe, alcohol-free beer and lowalcohol beer have existed for a while, but have often been seen as somewhat of a bad compromise, with boring, watery brews that do not come anywhere near the same level as regular beers in terms of flavour and aroma. Certainly, it has been looked upon as more of a substitute rather than something to truly enjoy.

However, recently the sector has seen a revival and modern alcohol-free beer 48 | Issue 125 | June 2019

has turned out to be a real tasty alternative to alcoholic drinks. New brewing methods ensure higher quality and new types of yeast enhance flavours, giving consumers more taste, yet without the booze. Some talented breweries in Sweden, Denmark and Norway are leading the way by showcasing brilliant new beers in this fast-growing area.

Skilled brewing in Sweden According to the Swedish Brewers’ Association, sales of alcohol-free beer

were boosted 40 per cent during 2018 and it is the category of beverages that has increased the most. “This is a fantastic development, and we believe that the trend will continue,” says Erika Danckwardt-Lillieström at the Swedish Brewers’ Association. “The growth in alcohol-free beer is partly due to more active and health-conscious consumers, but also thanks to better beer quality. The breweries have found new methods of producing alcohol-free beer and are getting better at making more interesting, flavoursome, high-quality alternatives for consumers.”

Swedish brewing giant Spendrups is developing new alcohol-free beer under a number of brands in order to meet increasing consumer demand.

“It’s a great challenge to produce tasty,

Scan Magazine | Feature | Beer Trends: A Non-alcoholic Midsummer

alcohol-free beer and requires a new approach,” says Spendrups’ brew master Richard Bengtsson. “The goal is to make alcohol-free beer that tastes as good as the standard version. We are further expanding our range with new, exciting products, and in different styles.” New this year is Mariestads Sommarlager, a modern, unfiltered lager with hints of citrus, perfect for summer. Bengtsson also recommends Melleruds Alkoholfria Pilsner. “It’s full of flavour and almost impossible to tell apart from the regular beer.”

Another brewery focusing on alcoholfree beer is Nils Oscar, established in 1996 as one of the first craft breweries in Sweden, and now also a pioneer in making alcohol-free beer. “Regardless of beer style and whether it contains alcohol or not, we always try to deliver the best quality,” says marketing manager Ida Lindberg Klausen. “In particular with alcohol-free beer, it’s important that the ABV does not differ from what is on the label, so it requires skills in brewing and also advanced equipment to measure the alcohol level.” The first released product in 2015, Pale Ale Alkoholfri, is one of the brewery’s most popular beers. While most alcohol-free beers on the market are still lagers, this pale ale is full of hops and bitterness.

Other alcohol-free products include a malty brown ale plus the seasonal Easter ale and Christmas ale. “The growth in alcohol-free beer is likely to continue.

Craft beer is still popular and we can Photo: Nils Oscar

Photo: Mikkeller

also see a wave of other alcohol-free craft products available, such as cider.”

New yeast in Denmark Despite having a different beer tradition from Sweden with stronger beers, the Danish market is also picking up a taste for alcohol-free beer. Data from the Danish Brewers’ Association shows a 31.6 per cent rise in sales of alcoholfree beer in 2018. The Danes drank 4.3 million litres, which is double what was consumed five years earlier.

One of the world’s most celebrated brewers is Mikkel Borg Bjergsø, founder of Danish nomad brewery Mikkeller. In addition to his innovative beer recipes, he has been working on alcohol-free beers for some four years and has dis-

covered a game changer: a yeast that gives all the flavour and aroma of a normal beer but does not produce any alcohol. “A few years ago, most alcohol-free beers on the market tasted the same, like beer-flavoured water without any body,” says Borg Bjergsø. “It’s fantastic that we can get low-alcohol beer that actually tastes good now. We tested one of our alcohol-free beers on some customers, and they believed the beer to be one that contains alcohol.”

2018 was a record-breaking year for sales of Mikkeller’s alcohol-free products. In fact, three of its alcohol-free beers were placed in the top five bestselling products. The hoppy American Pale-style wheat beer Drink’in The Sun is the most popular and the overall top Mikkel Borg Bjergsø.

Photo: Rasmus Malmstrøm

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 49

Scan Magazine | Feature | Beer Trends: A Non-alcoholic Midsummer

seller of all Mikkeller’s beers. Other hits include the New England-style IPA called Weird Weather Non ABV, which has been awarded Best Beer at the Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival.

Racing Beer has also met international acclaim and been dubbed “mouthwateringly delicious” by The Independent. Borg Bjergsø confesses: “If people ask me what is a perfect beer, I would answer one without alcohol.”

vested from the backyard of the owner’s parents, giving it a Riesling-style quality. Experienced head brewer at BRUS, Cosimo Sorrentino, confirms that there are plans to develop more alcohol-free beers. “Omitting alcohol does not mean omitting flavour, depth and complexity. We want to be able to offer more alternatives for consumers who wish to join in the brewpub’s events, but more responsibly.”

Also based in Copenhagen, Danish brewpub BRUS, owned by renowned craft brewery To Øl, makes small batches such as low-alcohol beer of around three to four per cent ABV, yet full of body and flavour. Its first alcohol-free beer, Under The Radar, was contract-brewed in Belgium by De Proefbrouwerij. It is a Belgian farmhouse ale with yeast har-

Inventive flavours in Norway

Klokk & Co’s alcohol-free beers. Photo: Klokk & Co

50 | Issue 125 | June 2019

The Norwegian Brewers’ Association also reports an increase in sales of alcohol-free beer with some 20 per cent over the past few years. And interestingly, according to a survey of students’ health and wellness in 2018, carried out by SHoT (Studentenes Helse- og Trivselsundersøkelse), a whopping

62 per cent of Norwegian students want more alcohol-free alternatives and events.

Leading Norwegian craft brewery Nøgne Ø, known for its range of state-of-the-art beers, has also picked up on the movement. Marketing manager Tom Young emphasises: “Youngsters today are focused on eating and drinking well, so alcohol-free and low-alcohol beer fits well with the health-conscious trend.”

So far, Nøgne Ø has launched an alcohol-free Belgian blonde ale, called Stripped Craft. Brewed like any other beer, the fermentation is stopped early so as not to produce alcohol, and lime zest plus freshly squeezed lime juice are added for extra flavour. Also coming up is an alcohol-free brown ale for Christmas, with cardamom and cinna-

Scan Magazine | Feature | Beer Trends: A Non-alcoholic Midsummer

mon, and a fruity, hoppy pale ale with low ABV for summer. “Brewing different types of beer is fun, and it’s a real challenge to achieve the same taste and drinkability in alcohol-free beer,” says Young.

A driving force in the world of craft beer, Lervig in Stavanger is known for inventive beers and consistent quality. The lightly hopped and refreshing IPA called No Worries is produced like a regular beer, but with a special yeast that cannot convert maltose into alcohol – perfect if you want flavour but without the effects of alcohol. In the pipeline is a new seasonal alcohol-free beer, cleverly named Driving Home for Christmas, with Christmas spices. “The market communicates better ways of drinking, and consumers are asking for more flavour. The alcohol-free category is going to explode – it’s surprising how fast it is growing,” elaborates Anders Heide Kleinstrup, managing director of Lervig.

“The new yeast is providing nice taste without alcohol, and we believe that it will change the market. This is what craft beer people are looking at: a product that we’re proud of and want to drink ourselves – and now we’ve found it.”

Set up three years ago, and the first Norwegian craft brewery to focus on alcohol-free beers, Klokk & Co has already launched four alcohol-free beers in addition to its standard line-up. “It’s difficult to produce a tasty alcohol-free beer. The trick is to crack the code on how to get the same body, flavours and aromas,” says co-founder Kristine Lund.

“We use the same philosophy, methods and ingredients as for craft beer and translate it all into alcohol-free versions.”

The best-seller, and often mentioned as Norway’s best alcohol-free beer, is FRIPA, with the same hoppy notes as an IPA. The brewery has also released Nada, a delicious American pale ale; a refreshing pilsner called Ok!; and last but not least, Dos Amigos, a Corona-style Mexican lager, which is also gluten free.

“Our goal is for alcohol-free beer to be a great alternative for any occasion, also when pairing with food. It should both taste and look good!”

Photo: Mikkeller

The team at Nøgne Ø peeling lime for Stripped Craft. Photo: Nøgne Ø

For more information, see: Sveriges Bryggerier (Swedish Brewers’ Association): www.sverigesbryggerier.se Bryggeriforeningen (Danish Brewers’ Association): www.bryggeriforeningen.dk Bryggeri- og drikkevareforeningen, BROD (Norwegian Brewers’ Association): www.drikkeglede.no Richard Bengtsson. Photo: Spendrups

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 51

52 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Scan Magazine | Feature | Lorelou Desjardins on Friluftsliv

Lorelou Desjardins Oslo‘s French ‘friluftsliv‘ convert Writer, blogger, public speaker, lawyer – Lorelou Desjardins is surprised herself at how she reconciles all her projects. Working full-time for WWF on plastic pollution, her passion is writing. For six years now, she has been enthusing people with her thoughts on cultural differences, politics and languages. Raised in the south of France, the open-minded woman lived in seven different countries all around the world – before she chose Norway as home.

By Hannah Krolle | Photo: Tori Lind Kjellstad

When Scan Magazine meets Desjardins in Oslo, she has just finished an appointment with a council from Shanghai. Next on her agenda: an interview about what is called ‘friluftsliv’. A normal day in Desjardins’ life.

The philosophy of being outdoors “Friluftsliv is about a simple life in nature, without destroying or disturbing it,” she explains. “The real enthusiasts are highly trained athletes, but it can be as simple as going on a hike in the forest with your family during the weekend, or going camping in the summer.”

In recent years, friluftsliv has been the word on everyone’s lips when discussing lifestyle in Norway. First mentioned by the Norwegian poet Henrik Ibsen in 1859, this idea of spending time outdoors to improve physical and mental health became popular when tourist organisations started using it to promote skiing and other nature experiences. Even legislation plays a part in encouraging outdoor pursuits, including the right to roam (known as Allemansrätten, or ‘All Men’s Right’), which allows everyone to use public and privately owned land for outdoor recreation, as set out in law in 1957.

The youngest citizens are installed with the idea of embracing the outdoors, too, as many childcare facilities involve friluftsliv in their concept. It ranges from forest kin-

dergartens to Arctic outdoor preschool concepts in which children spend time in the open air all year round, even at freezing temperatures. “While I was learning how to walk on the pavements in Paris, Norwegians were probably mastering their skiing techniques on some frozen lake in Norway,” Desjardins says.

For Desjardins, friluftsliv was the reason to settle in Norway. “When I came here ten years ago, I was a workaholic city girl aged 25. If I had a few days off, I would probably have visited another capital city.” In Norway, this lifestyle was greeted with a lack of comprehension. “To show how committed I was to my job, I used to stay very late in the office. There was one sunny day when my CEO told me to leave the office right away. That was incredible to me.”

‘You have to make your decision’ At this point, the young urbanite didn’t even like the countryside. “I felt a bit outside of this world,” she admits. But after an accident, she took the decision to spend six months in nature on her own. “It was so quiet,” she recalls. “I was sleeping in a cabin and picking berries. It helped me to calm down.” Now, she would never go back to her old life. “I think I wouldn’t survive in Paris and its craziness,” she admits.

For Desjardins, it’s not a question of accessibility, but of a structure in society. “In

Norway, your social status is not defined by how many hours you work. It’s accepted to have a life outdoors,” she says. Now in her mid-30s, she manages to remain downto-earth, despite regularly appearing on Norwegian television, radio and podcasts.

She uses ‘we’ when talking about Norwegians yet still describes herself as a foreigner. “I feel French when I speak my mind. French people are more confrontational, whereas many Norwegians shy away from conflict. I try to pace myself then,” she explains. Studying the language and culture for ten years, she knows the Norwegian peculiarities fairly well. “Because I know their language, I can take the liberty to criticise. People like when I talk about them from a foreign perspective. It’s a fine line though.”

As part of her cultural studies, she talks about midsummer too. “People have bonfires at the beach, drink beer and try to build the biggest fire,” she smiles. “But at the same time, the festival can be mentally a little difficult. People know that we’re approaching winter too. In Norway, we follow the seasons a lot; it’s bittersweet.”

Living with her partner and two children in Oslo, Desjardins enjoys life in her new home. Of course, she has a new project: the aim to publish En frosk i fjorden (A frog in the fjord) in English. Honest and humorous, she understands how to make people laugh. “It’s a story of someone who arrived in Norway without anything and had to survive for one year.” Desjardins most certainly did – for ten years now, and counting.

Web: www.afroginthefjord.com and www.lorelou.com

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 53

D AN N S E AY ED Th l W W ia A ec ET IN S p G S S C TI EM N G A M EN RO IDD H e:

em

Rest, relax, and get your romance on in Sweden Are you looking to surprise someone special, or are you simply tired of tourist traps and all the obvious bucket-list attractions? We have collected together some independent vineyards, charming inns, traditional towns and untouched ecohavens for a romantic getaway or relaxing weekend break off the beaten track.

Photos: imagebank.sweden.se

At close to 174,000 square miles, Sweden is the third-largest country in the European Union by area, and with a population of just under ten million, it is safe to say that Sweden boasts a great deal of just that: space. In addition to deep woods, rolling hills and high mountains with no villages as far as the eye can see, there are beautiful 54 | Issue 125 | June 2019

castles with vast, landscaped grounds, cultural experiences out in nature, and plenty of opportunities to go for a swim – alone in the nude in a peaceful lake, or together with other explorers at wellmaintained destinations.

If you are visiting Sweden with your special someone and want that silver

lining, or just hope to get off the beaten track and get an insider’s view of the most memorable hidden gems of Sweden, this special theme is for you.

We have listed our favourite manors, the most tranquil and relaxing destinations, and, of course, some of the most delicious food and drink too. Read on to find the perfect location for your next restful break in Sweden.

For more information about accommodation options, attractions, and travel, go to www.visitsweden.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

Photo: Folio

Photo: Simon Paulin

Hotell Albert. Photo: Patrik Arneke

Väderöarna. Photo: Pia Hansson

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 55

Photo: Torleif Svensson

Immerse yourself and relax in the heart of Sweden With a rich cultural heritage, stunning views of untouched landscapes, and a warm, welcoming attitude known as the Tällberg spirit, the village of Tällberg is the perfect blend of all the best things Sweden has to offer, condensed into one unforgettable locality. Come for peace, music, seminars or the locally produced food and drink – and then return, again and again.

By Linnea Dunne

“Many people who come here are stunned – it’s incredibly beautiful and relaxing. There’s plenty to do if you want to keep busy, but most people end up essentially just kicking back – it’s that kind of place,” says Anna Wiklund. She works at one of the eight accommodation establishments in what is Sweden’s most hotel-dense village, Tällberg. Only 250 people live here permanently, but during peak season, in the summer, the village truly comes to life.

56 | Issue 125 | June 2019

“In the winter, it’s a bit like Narnia,” Wiklund continues. “You’re enveloped by the snow-covered trees, and a winding road takes you through the village, past traditional, red timber houses.”

In addition to traditional cottages and roundpole fences, Tällberg boasts stunning views across Lake Siljan. “You can see the blue mountains on the horizon and a church sticking out in the middle. It’s like arriving right at the heart of Swedish culture.”

The name, Tällberg, means ‘the pineclad mountain’, and refers to its location on the slope down to the lake. It was a farmers’ village of no more than 30odd houses up until 1914, when the railway came. As more and more people discovered the hidden gem with its mesmerising sunsets, tourism took over as the main industry. Today, the village marries traditional fiddle music and tassled gartles with modern, effective conferences.

Come snow, rain or shine Many loyal Tällberg fans visit in the summer. The peace and quiet is a key appeal for most, but you can also experience both world-class art and well-preserved cultural heritage. Zorngården, formerly the home of renowned painters Anders

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

One village, eight hotels Tällberg is the most hotel-dense village in Sweden. Here are seven of them, which pride themselves on exceptional service and a collaborative spirit: • Klockargården • Villa Långbers • First Hotel Tällberg • Åkerblads Hotell, Gästgiveri och Spa • Dalecarlia Hotel & Spa • Tällbersgården • Green Hotel

Web: www.upplevtallberg.se

and Emma Zorn, is located in Mora, just a 45-minute drive away, and you can get to Carl Larsson’s home in Sundborn in less than an hour. You can watch ceramics take shape in nearby Nittsjö or experience the craft and creation of the legendary Dala horse at Nusnäs. Or why not learn all about the place that supplied Europe with two-thirds of its copper needs, Falun Mine?

In recent years, music fans have started flocking to the county of Dalarna to experience unique music performances at Dalhalla, an open-air theatre in a former limestone quarry. Artists including The Beach Boys and Patti Smith have performed at the breath-taking venue, and this summer’s line-up includes Iggy Pop and Mando Diao. Those who prefer traditional tunes do not have to travel far either, as the folk music festival Musik vid Siljan takes place during the first week of July every year. Later that month, vintage car fans take over the streets of the nearby town Rättvik, as Classic Car Week kicks off.

“Families with kids tend to enjoy a day trip to Leksand Sommarland (about a 15-minute drive away), with its funfair and water park, but we have a gorgeous pier here in the village too, where you can spend entire days relaxing,” says Wiklund, adding that the midsummer celebrations are in a league of their own in this part of Sweden. “Each farm has its own celebration, and we raise our own pole in the village too. It’s an im-

Photo: Barbro Sjöholm

portant tradition that’s being preserved, with fiddle music, traditional costumes and wreath-making alongside traditional food and drink.”

Thrill-seekers and fitness fans will enjoy exploring the lush woods surrounding Tällberg, along with the beautiful cycling paths and trails for runners and hikers – and let’s not forget the nine-hole golf course. Or you might consider a winter trip instead, as there are ski slopes nearby for beginners and families. If visiting around Christmas, Tällberg turns into a magical, snow-clad winter wonderland with a range of Christmas packages at the different hotels.

Photo: Hans Christiansen

ter Hillary Clinton and Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria.

If it’s good enough for royalty and world leaders, as well as arguably the most honest of critics – children – it is probably safe to say that Tällberg can offer both charm and quality in abundance.

Photo: Torleif Svensson

Remote conferences just 2.5 hours from Arlanda But it’s not just families and holidaygoers who have discovered the beauty of Tällberg. Throughout the year, the village welcomes countless conferences and seminars of all sizes – sometimes in collaboration between seven local hotels, which together offer 1,000 beds. “Everything’s handy as all hotels are within walking distance, and there’s plenty of space for us to put up marquees for big events,” says Wiklund.

Between 2005 and 2013, the annual event Tällberg Forum welcomed global leaders to the village to discuss issues surrounding globalisation and positive change. More than 300 participants from 54 different countries attended the event, including then US foreign minis-

Five things not to miss when in Tällberg Falun Mine – a cultural-historical must-see.

Dalhalla – an unforgettable musical experience, complete with a hotel package including breakfast and transit to and from the event.

Zorngården and Carl Larsson-gården – the former homes and stories of two of Sweden’s artistic giants.

Vasaloppet – or at least the opportunity to ski a section of the renowned cross-country skiing race, from nearby Mora.

Tällberg half marathon, boasting a challenging, incredibly hilly route.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 57

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

Photo: Lotta Larsson

Spend a day at the castle One of Europe’s most beautiful Baroque-style castles, Skokloster, was built in the 1600s, during the Swedish Age of Greatness. Located by Lake Mälaren, the castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and lush nature, ideal for a day out during the summer.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Skokloster Castle

There is plenty to discover at Skokloster Castle, making it one of the summer’s ideal destinations for families. “Come and spend a day at the castle,” says curator Petri Tigercrona. “There’s a lot to explore, including the castle itself with its magnificent rooms, well-preserved furnishings and paintings, but also the stunning castle grounds, which are perfect for walks along the lake and picnics in the sun.”

One of this summer’s highlights is the new exhibition The Dream of Skokloster: Between Battlefield and Starry Skies, which opens on 4 June. “We will show the treasures of the castle, things that wouldn’t normally be available to visitors,” explains Tigercrona. “You can see exciting objects, fantastic garments, beautiful portraits and tools dating back to the 17th century.” In July, the thirdfloor apartments open up for one of the popular dramatised tours, where the 58 | Issue 125 | June 2019

butler and the servants gossip about the lord of the manor and preparations for the King’s visit.

And there is much more to see and do.

From 17 to 19 June, children can take part in the popular Knight Camp, which is open for pre-registration. Experiencing what life was like in the Middle Ages, they can learn how to make a fire and how to handle horses, as well as wear a suit of armour. And speaking of knights, from 26 to 28 July, Skokloster Castle will host the spectacular Medieval jousting tournament, an action-packed event of courage, strength and skill, performed

by Nordic Knights. On 17 August, meanwhile, for the third year, the castle will host a grand historic ball inspired by the Jane Austen era.

Also make sure to check out the gems in the former Silver Chamber of the castle, or one of the world’s most famous

paintings, Vertumnus. In the mysterious castle tower, the old studio is open for visitors to perhaps read a book, try on clothes from the 1600s, or play with the old toys. The castle organises a number of guided tours on a daily basis, the café and restaurant offer tasty treats, and visitors can find beautiful gifts in the shop. Everything is set for a wonderful day spent at the castle!

Web: www.skoklostersslott.se Facebook: Skoklostersslott Twitter: @skoklosters Instagram: @skoklostersslott

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden Confrence rooms with views.

Salt & Sill’s scenic surroundings.

Enjoy a stay at Sweden’s first floating hotel.

Eat, float and sleep at Sweden’s first ‘boatel’ A unique concept can be found on the island of Klädesholmen, just off the west coast of Gothenburg. It consists of a renowned restaurant as well as Sweden’s first ever floating hotel. With the North Sea on its doorstep, Salt & Sill offers an extraordinary environment for its guests.

By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Tony Meyer

“We are celebrating 20 years this year,” director Jonas Espefors says with a smile. Two decades have passed since the restaurant Salt & Sill opened its doors for the first time, and it has been quite the success story. With several mentions in the White Guide, and thanks to its local produce and high-quality food, it now attracts visitors from all over the world.

The word ‘sill’ means herring and is especially reflected in one of the dishes.

“Our board with six different herrings has become our trademark,” Espefors explains. The island on which the restaurant is located has a history of herring fishing dating back to the 16th century. A lot has happened since then, but locals still refer to the island as ‘the herring island’, which adds extra charm to the concept.

Hotel and conferences on the water The floating hotel linked to the restaurant was the only one of its kind in Sweden when it first opened back in 2008. There was no space for new buildings on the island, which led to the brilliant idea of constructing the hotel on pontoons on the water. The excess material from the construction was used for a new reef, which is now bursting with sea life, and the establishment follows a route of sustainability with turbines powered by the sea current, which heats up the hotel rooms – rooms that offer absolute comfort with clean, boatinspired style and design details made of driftwood. Some of the rooms even have their own ladder into the water.

Word spread rapidly after the opening, and the hotel quickly became a sensation. “Many bloggers and journalists

visit us, thanks to the food and the boatel,” says Espefors. The hotel is busy all year round with both private guests and conferences. Salt & Sill has seven conference rooms with capacity for anything from four to 80 people, all with scenic ocean views. A nice addition is the large catamaran anchored next to the hotel, with a tub on the roof and a sauna, available for guests but also rentable for conferencing companies.

Clean yet cosy design at Salt & Sill.

Web: www.saltosill.se Facebook: Saltosill Instagram: @saltosill

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 59

Log out, switch off, and enter an ecosystem of pure natural beauty With 365 islands, one for each day of the year, The Weather Islands make up Sweden’s westernmost outpost, a place where ships moored back in the 15th and 16th centuries while waiting for better times. These days, however, there is no waiting for the good times. This is a place where people come to just be, surrounded by crystal-clear sea, stillness, seals and porpoises. In other words: a destination for your bucket list – the good times are here.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Pia Hansson

“People get here and feel as though time stops,” says Pia Hansson, who runs the inn on Storö, the main island. “It’s like nowhere else. There’s no TV, no radio – it’s like stepping right into a mini ecosystem where everything you need is right there. You could be standing in the pilot’s lookout with 360-degree views as the wind howls all around. We embrace nature – we’re right there at the heart of it.”

And at The Weather Islands, they walk the talk. They have their own recycling, 60 | Issue 125 | June 2019

their own treatment plant. As there’s no freshwater on the island, they desalt it themselves, adding some minerals for a pure, refreshing flavour. “You don’t just leave the taps running,” Hansson insists. “It brings an awareness: there’s a desperate scarcity of drinking water on this planet, and we’re going to look after it.”

In fact, The Weather Islands have been a pioneering destination when it comes to responsible tourism for a long time

now. Everything is done with sustainability in mind, and the idea is that guests take that experience of being at one with nature with them when they leave: the feeling of sitting on the cliffs with the salty waves crashing in towards them.

The next goal is full self-sufficiency, including with regards to electricity.

“We’re nearly there, I suppose,” says Hansson. “We’ve already got sun panels, we fish for our own seafood… We’ve got no one to rely on but ourselves, and that’s in a way what makes being on the island so unique.”

A warm welcome Currently, there are 16 rooms, ranging from family rooms to a number of small, en-suite rooms with west-facing terraces, perfect for watching the magical sunset. As of next summer, another dozen-or-so en-suite double rooms will

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

welcome guests to stay in the old, little dwellings dotted out across the island.

When guests reach the main island by boat, a host or hostess greets them to help them settle in, adding to what is a thoroughly welcoming, personable experience. “People hear about us through word of mouth, and they come here to get away from beeping phones and just sit in the stillness, perhaps meditating or just breathing in the clean air,” Hansson explains. Alternatively, you can put a silver lining on that stillness, sitting in a hot tub with a glass of bubbly in the middle of a snow storm, then popping into the warm and cosy restaurant for a comforting meal. “There are contrasts everywhere, and we emphasise those contrasts,” says Hansson. “And it’s a sociable place. You get to know the kitchen staff – and the food is fantastic!”

Hansson stresses that activating their guests is not a priority. “Sure, there’s plenty to do. You can enjoy a hike on the walking trail; you can go out in one of the boats to watch the seals –

Sweden’s biggest seal colony – resting on the cliffs; we’ve got Sweden’s best diving waters, incredible wildlife, a coral reef that was just discovered a few years ago… But you don’t need to do anything.

Just come here, sit, stroll, and enjoy the perfectly clear waters and the warm climate, thanks to the Gulf Stream that passes us in the east.”

Offline, year-round bucket list item While conference guests are provided with all technical necessities, there is no open wireless network for other guests.

“Everyone, teenagers included, is offline – you won’t be streaming movies. But no one ever protests, it becomes more of a simple fact,” says Hansson. “A 14-yearold boy came asking for the WiFi the other day. I said that we didn’t have one, and he said ‘OK’ and walked off to play a board game instead.”

Summertime is peak season at The Weather Islands, indeed a real summer paradise, if you ask Hansson – think sailing boats, speed boats, people swimming in the sea and sunbathing on

the cliffs. But the unique environment of the islands makes for an unforgettable trip no matter the season, whether you end up crayfish or lobster fishing, exploring the walking trail, bird watching or just relaxing in the hot tub.

“I had a group of journalists here recently, and as I welcomed them to the island I was giving them an introduction.

But after a few minutes, I realised that they weren’t listening; they were just standing there, jaws dropped in awe,” Hansson laughs. If that’s not an item for your Nordic bucket list, what is?

Fly to Gothenburg Landvetter Airport or Gardermoen Oslo Airport, where you can continue by car or aircoach transfer, or be collected by The Weather Islands’ own minibus.

Web: www.vaderoarna.com Facebook: vaderoarna Instagram: @theweatherislands

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 61

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

Wine from the north It had previously been very difficult to maintain a vineyard in the north, but during recent years, it has become possible to produce wine in Sweden. “Before we started the vineyard, we calculated where the ultimate place would be, and we found that the coast in the county of Skåne was the best. We bought a farm outside of Helsingborg and started in 2010,” says wine farmer Brita Norberg, who owns Frillestad Vingård together with her husband, Anders.

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Frillestad Vingård

Brita and Anders explain that it is hard work to start a vineyard, but after three years they could finally take their first harvest.

“Our grapes are disease resistant, which eliminates all spraying with pesticides.

We have four kinds of grapes: two green, Solaris and Johanniter; and two blue,

Bolero and Rondo, to produce four different kinds of wine,” explains Anders. “Visiting our farm is special. There is of course the traditional wine tasting, but we also host ‘be a wine farmer for a day’, where visitors get to work on the vineyard.”

Summer is the busiest time of the year

as a wine farmer. “We are part of Vinvägen, Skåne’s own so-called ‘wine road’, with 20 vineyards. This summer, eight of us are hosting a wine fair at H55 in Helsingborg.

On 19 July and 9 August, the public is welcome to taste our wines,” says Brita. “We would love to be able to sell our wines directly here at the farm, but the dream is to be featured at the Nobel Prize dinner. They always focus on Swedish food, so why not Swedish wine?” she laughs.

Web: www.frillestad.com Facebook: Frillestads Vingård Anders and Brita.

Cosy stay in the heart of Visby Once a Viking trading settlement and later a getaway for writers and artists, the island of Gotland is a hidden paradise in the Baltic Sea. Gotland’s only town, Visby, has plenty of hustle and bustle and yet is not far from the tranquillity of the seaside.

Here, the friendliest place to stay is undoubtedly Hotel S:t Clemens.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Hotel S:t Clemens

The charming town of Visby is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval city wall. In the heart of the town, near the cathedral and with the greenery of the Botanical Garden outside the windows, is Hotel S:t Clemens.

The family-run hotel’s historical buildings, dating back to the 1600s, form a miniature version of the small houses and narrow alleys of the old town centre. The 30 cosy rooms have been individually decorated in retro style with floral wallpaper, and guests can enjoy two delightful gardens as well as access to the ruins of the medieval church of S:t Clemens.

“Visby is a fantastic town, and its his62 | Issue 125 | June 2019

tory is so present even today,” says owner Menette von Schulman. “You can stroll along the cobblestone streets, look at the historic ruins and city wall, and enjoy the small-town atmosphere. It’s easy and friendly, and everything is close by.”

The von Schulman family took over the hotel in 2007 and makes sure to protect its

great heritage and, of course, its reputation for fantastic customer service. In 2009, Hotel S:t Clemens became Gotland’s first environmentally friendly accommodation, and it has also been named one of Sweden’s top-ten best service hotels for several years running. “This is the real thing, the island life. We want to make sure our hotel can remain for another 400 years or so!”

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

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

The pub is decorated with parts from an English bar that closed down.

In the spa, there are pools both indoors and outdoors.

A classical inn with a modern twist At the centre of the flourishing county of Skåne, Höör Gästis has offered rooms to guests for the past three centuries. Now, the inn has taken a step into the next century, and in addition to rooms, guests can get everything they need for a perfect getaway – all under one roof.

By Hanna Stjernström | Photos: Josefin Widell Hultgren

Höörs Gästgifwaregård, or Höör Gästis, is an inn located at the centre of Skåne in the south of Sweden. With buildings dating back to the late-17th century, the inn has a long history of owners who ran the business through the centuries. “I bought Höör Gästis five years ago, and we started rebuilding and expanding the business soon after,” says owner Lars-Göran Håkansson, or L-G, as he is called. Guided by the inn’s original details, the renovation aimed to preserve as much as possible from its original aesthetic, while incorporating modernity. “My partner, Rosita Ekström, has been responsible for the

decorating during the renovation, and she has done a great job,” Håkansson says and laughs: “But the addition of the pub and its interior was all my idea!”

The renovation has resulted in a facility with a holistic approach to the guest experience. “We had a vision that guests shouldn’t have to move around, but rather find everything in the same place,” says Håkansson. Thus, the inn offers everything from beautifully decorated hotel rooms and dinner in the restaurant, to a brand-new spa and activities outdoors for sports fans and hikers alike.

“We are continuously trying to improve to give our guests the perfect getaway,” the owner concludes.

A getaway at Höör Gästis: Hotel Spend the night in one of the hotel’s rooms. With double rooms, single rooms, family rooms and suites, there is a room to meet every need.

Food and dining The restaurant is open from breakfast to dinner and serves traditional food. For an evening with sport or maybe an after-work gathering, guests can visit the newly added pub. If wine is preferred, there is also a wine cellar with a wide selection of wines.

Activities and relaxation With nature around the corner and a newly built spa, there is a range of activities for all moods and days. For the active guest, a tour on water- skis or at the golf course can be arranged, or a calmer activity such as fishing or hiking. If the goal is relaxation, the inn’s spa offers both a swim in one of the two pools and a visit to one of the saunas.

Web: www.hoorsgastis.se Facebook: Höörs Gästgifwaregård

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 63

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

Gastronomic sensations on the ledge of a mountain Surrounded by the calming Swedish nature with its pine trees and lakes, yet conveniently close to the town of Trollhättan, Hotell Albert welcomes its guests to a modern but classic setting.

By Kristine Olofsson | Photos: Patrik Arneke

“Hotell Albert is a small, personable establishment with a strong gastronomic profile.

We follow our own vision and are extremely engaged and passionate about what we do,” says Rickard Halleröd, chef and owner. He and co-owners Christoffer Florén and Svante Tengblad started the business nearly 20 years ago with the ambition to maintain the legacy of the premises and marry it with their

Christoffer Florén and Rickard Halleröd.

love for culinary experiences and hospitality.

The name of the hotel dates back to 1880, when high-profile engineer Albert bought the grounds, and he would surely be proud to see what it has turned into. The kitchen has continuously been scored by the White Guide and proudly introduces fresh, seasonal products from the ocean and the forest. The wine cellar offers a mix of classic tastes and

Local produce and high-quality food at Albert Hotell.

new, excitingly modern flavours, just as the hotel itself.

“All rooms are light and airy, with modern yet classic décor, and the majority have private balconies with views over the dramatic landscape and Trollhättan itself,” says Halleröd. Some suites are equipped with a private sauna, and one peek through the door makes it easy to understand why the hotel is so popular among celebrities.

Trollhättan has long been a hub for filmmaking, and many actors are regulars at this tranquil gem designed for relaxation.

Web: www.alberthotell.com Facebook: albertkok.hotellkonferens

Sunshine, sea and Swedish wine Not many people associate Sweden with red wine, and rightfully so – it is not an easy wine to cultivate in the northern climate, making the creations of Vejby Vineyard and Winery all the more extraordinary. Soak in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy their exclusive red wine blends, composed by artisan winemakers who took the route less travelled, resulting in award-winning flavours.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Vejby Vineyard and Winery

The winery is situated along the gorgeous coastal line of Bjärehalvön in southern Sweden, where the Appelin family is producing single vineyard wines, focusing solely on red and rosé wine. Having harvested and created wines for ten years, Jeppe Appelin and Fariba Selseleh Sabzi eventu-

ally decided to open their doors to the public in 2016. “There are many vineyards in Sweden making white wine, but we wanted to show the possibility to create beautiful red wine too,” says Appelin.

Inspired by biodynamic cultivation techniques, and using what’s provided by the Vejby Winery gives you a rare chance to try red wine made in Sweden.

surrounding landscape, they have an ideal environment for the grapes. Only adding a few ingredients, they create simple yet intricate wines where the flavours of the grapes become the main focus. The wine is not available anywhere else, which gives them the freedom to experiment with new blends, trying out different methods, and actively listening to guests’ suggestions when doing so.

The winery is open year-round, for spontaneous visits or one of the many tours. Try the Exclusive Wine Tasting, or why not join them for a Winemakers Dinner? What signifies a visit to Vejby Winery is the familiarity, the creative spirit and the closeness to nature that imbue the premises – something that is appreciated by local tourists as well as international visitors, acclaimed sommeliers and wine juries all over the world.

Web: www.vejbyvingaard.com Facebook: Vejby Vingård Instagram: @vejbyvingaard

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

Fairy-tale vibes in charming Trosa Only an hour from Stockholm, Trosa is perfect for a day trip. A visit here is like finding oneself in a story by children’s book author Astrid Lindgren, as this small town is bursting with picturesque scenery, friendly locals and delicious food.

the charming Bomans Hotell, with unique interiors and new things to discover every time; and Ågården, or Tre Små Rum, both of which boast beautiful courtyards.

By Malin Norman | Photo: Trosa Tourist Center

Trosa is known for its charming streets and wooden houses with glass-enclosed porches. Unsurprisingly, the idyllic town features in productions such as the film about fictional character Kalle Blomkvist and the popular German TV series Inga Lindström.

But the charming destination has more to offer than delightful décor. Just around the corner is stunning nature, and a walk along the popular hiking trail Sörmlandsleden is a great experience. “Lots of people are looking for some peace and quiet nowadays,” says tourism director Paola Andersson. “Visitors can also explore the historic sites in the town centre on a self-guided tour, rent a bike or go kayaking, or perhaps visit one of the royal summer palaces.”

There are plenty of concerts during the

summer. A few not to miss are the garden concert with rapper Petter at Fina Fisken on 27 July, Benny Anderssons Orkester with Helen Sjöholm and Tommy Körberg at Tullgarn Palace on 3 August, and the hit show From Broadway to Duvemåla at Sund Nergården on 8 August. Another highlight is the traditional Trosa Harvest and Crafts Market on 25 August.

Discovering the local restaurants is also a must. For instance, Fina Fisken serves rustic specialities such as herring, and Andersson recommends Marsipangården’s marzipan factory and café. There are fantastic options for those who want to stay the night, including the classic Trosa Stadshotell & Spa, with genuine character and a restaurant dining room from the 1800s;

Web: www.trosa.com Facebook: VisitTrosa Instagram: @visittrosa

An intimate hotel experience with a difference Staying at Villa Gransholm will not only give you a unique hotel experience – it also offers you a wide range of things to do and discover. Located close to The Kingdom of Crystal and various golf courses, it is the perfect place to retreat and recharge.

By Hanna Andersson | Photos: Villa Gransholm

Villa Gransholm was built in 1902 and was the residence of papermill manager Arvid Myhrman and his family. The land was a papermill farm until 1978, when the business closed, and has been a hotel ever since. “We are proud to have kept and treasured this villa in its original form. Most of the rooms and surroundings have stayed the way Arvid

and his wife, Margaretha, planned them.

This is what makes our hotel so special; it feels very intimate and cosy, like you are visiting someone’s home,” says hotel manager Joakim Rodin.

The villa features its own tennis court, an exclusive restaurant, and acres of greenery for picnics and strolls. “There are so many

places to discover both inside and around the house, but also in the surrounding area.

You can go paddling in lakes and rivers, pack a picnic basket and eat under an elm tree, or enjoy a book and a cognac in the library.

Our restaurant is available for pre-booked guests and hotel guests, and serves homemade food made with local produce,” Rodin continues.

Because of its intimacy, Villa Gransholm offers a very special getaway. “As it’s very home-like, it feels intimate. We always say, ‘Welcome home to us at Villa Gransholm’ as we finish our bookings,” Rodin smiles.

Web: www.villagransholm.se

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Romantic Getaways and Hidden Gems in Sweden

Historic settings and modern pleasures Are you looking for calm, nature and fine dining this summer? Then a visit to Baldersnäs Manor might well be the perfect option for you – an idyllic spot with a rich history, today serving as the majestic location for a hotel, spa and restaurant.

By Nina Bressler

Formerly known as Ballnäs, and later renamed Baldersnäs, this manor was built during the 18th century by a prominent Swedish family, to supply a fitting home in the midst of the ironworks production era.

Today, this is a place where classical meets modern to give you a unique stay in beautiful environments. Why not try the experi-

Baldersnäs Manor gives you a peaceful getaway in classical settings. Photo: Maja Flink

ence of the 72-hour cabin, a small house covered in glass that gives you an unobstructed view of the nature outside, with the comfort of a hotel room? “We have had so many different types of guests that have all been fascinated by how calm it is and how close you get to nature,” says Susanne Björk Jensen, CEO of Baldersnäs.

Photo: Baldersnäs Herrgård

If you prefer a more classical type of accommodation, there are options for you too: stay in the manor or one of the wings, and enjoy the experience with the help of one of the packages, or simply build your own. There is an abundance of activities to choose from: beautiful walks, spa experiences, a Jacuzzi, a gym – perhaps best rounded-off with dinner at the restaurant, serving traditional Swedish food with a twist, with a new menu almost every day and consistently recommended by the White Guide.

The manor is also popular for weddings, and it’s easy to see why. The calm and the closeness to the surrounding lake and nature provide the perfect setting for a romantic getaway or to recharge after a hectic spring.

Web: www.baldersnas.eu Facebook: Baldersnäs Herrgård Instagram: @baldersnas

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Lively restaurant with international feel and food The history of the restaurant Fat Lizard is still short, but it has already proven to be a success. Located in a lively district in Espoo, Finland, it is easily reached by the underground and delights its guests with a large variety of locally brewed beer on draught, a delicious menu, and excellent service.

By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Restaurant Fat Lizard

The story of the restaurant starts with the local craft beer company, Fat Lizard Brewing Company, which opened a few years ago. A new team of experienced professionals was gathered, and a privately-owned restaurant carrying the same name was opened in January last year. “The space where we built the restaurant was previously part of Aalto 68 | Issue 125 | June 2019

University’s technical site, so we were able to build the restaurant from scratch,” explains Tiina Karling, co-owner and general manager of the restaurant.

The restaurant Fat Lizard is situated in the lively business and campus district Otaniemi, Espoo. It is easily reached also from Helsinki by underground; the closest

stop, Aalto University, is located just 50 metres away from the restaurant. There is also plenty of parking for those arriving by car. The international, welcoming atmosphere continues indoors also, where ten nationalities are represented in the team of 40 skilful and cheerful staff members.

The spacious restaurant has been a success right from the start. It can cater for 330 guests, and there are another 100 seats on the outdoor terrace. The restaurant is open every day, all year round, and serves food until the late hours. There is also a private room for 40 guests to cater for meetings and other functions.

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Explore Espoo

Stunning dishes and drinks The menu, created by head chef Matti Hälvä, includes many delicious, international specialities from around the world.

The top chefs in the kitchen create impressive, colourful dishes in generous portions that leave everyone satisfied.

“We have a Koba charcoal grill and an Italian wood-fired pizza oven, so we can guarantee authentic flavours for our guests,” says Karling. “We grill, fry and smoke our dishes ourselves, and use only the best and freshest seasonal ingredients in our kitchen.”

The daily lunch buffet offers a good variety of dishes, including vegetarian options. The full à la carte menu – including wood-fired pizzas, tasty steaks and burgers, and delicious veggie options, combined with heavenly desserts – is also available at lunchtime for those opting for a sit-down lunch. Guests can also enjoy Fat Lizard cuisine at home, by ordering by phone and getting a take-away from the restaurant, or by using the Wolt or Foodora delivery services.

Besides the tasty food, restaurant Fat Lizard is also known for its craft beer and other drinks. The bar is the perfect place for an after-work gathering. Alongside its namesake Fat Lizard Brewing Company’s beers, the restaurant serves other locally brewed beers: in total, 14 craft beer brands on tap and many more

in bottles. “Our bar staff and waiters are highly qualified to assist guests in choosing the right one,” promises Karling.

But it is not just about beers at restaurant Fat Lizard – they also have a superb wine list. “I recommend, for example, one of our Barolo wines to go with our steaks,” says Karling. “In addition to our high-quality reds, we also have breezy and aromatic whites and delightful rosés, not to mention our elegant sparkling wines and Champagnes.” And if you prefer a cocktail, aperitif or mocktail, the bartender will be extremely happy to shake up a drink of their own design.

Entertainment and events “During the winter season, we have live music every week, and now in the sum-

mer, we celebrate the local craft beer companies with brewing festivals on 12 July and 15 August,” explains Karling.

The restaurant stays open until 2am at the weekends, and the pizza oven stays hot all night for those who want to enjoy a late-night bite.

The future looks bright and busy for the restaurant, and they’ve already made big plans. “We are opening another restaurant in Herttoniemi, Helsinki, in the spring of 2020,” Karling reveals. It sounds like this top team is building yet another success story.

Web: www.ravintolafatlizard.fi Facebook: ravintolafatlizard Instagram: @ravintolafatlizard

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Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Explore Espoo Australian cabaret sensation Hot Brown Honey is about female empowerment and social change, mixing burlesque, hip-hop, circus and dance in their show. Photo: Dylan Evans

Artistic director Erik Söderblom.

Photo: Sasa Tkalcan

Children of a Lesser God is Mark Medoff’s modern classic about love reaching across different worlds, directed by Johanna Freundlich.

The finest international performances and Finnish drama The Espoo City Theatre celebrated its 30th anniversary last year and, interestingly for a national theatre, now presents far more contemporary works than classics.

By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Espoo City Theatre

Espoo City Theatre (ECT) stages up to ten international guest productions each year, ten domestic guest performances, and four of its own productions. ECT doesn’t have a regular artistic team; instead, they work as a production house and invite the professionals best suited for each production to work on their shows. “Most of the interesting work in Finland takes place in between genres, combining, for example, circus with dance, or opera with visual art,” says ECT’s artistic director Erik Söderblom.

The theatre has two venues, and both are located in the Tapiola, Espoo, and are easily reached by underground from Helsinki in just 15 minutes. The future looks bright for the theatre, as the city of Espoo is planning to build completely new facilities for the theatre in the near future.

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ECT calls itself the International Theatre of Finland – and for a good reason. They have always been forerunners in presenting Finnish audiences with international performances. Since the theatre was founded, it has hosted performances from over 30 countries. But today, the audiences are no longer just Finnish, but increasingly multinational and multilingual, too.

But this is not a problem at ECT, as they are ready for the change. “All our performances have subtitles today; we translate everything into both English and Finnish,” Söderblom explains. “The subtitles are either projected onto a screen above the stage or can be accessed through Espoo City Theatre’s own mobile app.”

Autumn season highlights The next season will again present top-level performances at ECT. There will be international shows and Finnish pre-

mieres. In August, the Australian group Hot Brown Honey will open the autumn season and bring a powerful show for one evening, in one explosion shattering all preconceptions of colour, culture and controversy. The show is performed in English and has Finnish subtitles.

A poetic, circus-like act, Bianco su Bianco (‘White on White’) is a theatrical clown show by the Swiss group Compagnia Finzi Pasca, Switzerland, performed by two actors with a circus background from Cirque du Soleil, and will be on stage in September. Children of a Lesser God, meanwhile, is Mark Medoff’s play about love reaching across different worlds. It charts the cross-currents faced by a deaf woman and a hearing man as they fall in love and make a life together. The play will have its Finnish premiere at Espoo City Theatre in September.

Web: www.espoonteatteri.fi Facebook: espoonteatteri Instagram: @espoonteatteri

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Explore Espoo

Top Left: Tapiola Sinfonietta at Musica Nova festival in February 2019. Photo: Maarit Kytöharju. Bottom Left: Tapiola Sinfonietta consists of 43 musicians. Photo: Olli Häkämies. Middle: Conductor/cellist Klaus Mäkelä is Tapiola Sinfonietta’s artistic partner and conducts all the Beethoven symphonies during this period, 2018-2020.

Photo: Heikki Tuuli. Right: Conductor Taavi Oramo is the first artist-in-residence at Tapiola Sinfonietta.Photo: Tero Ahonen

From Viennese classics to ambient and jazz The Tapiola Sinfonietta, the orchestra of the City of Espoo, is a top-level chamber orchestra whose guest performers include leading Finnish and foreign conductors and soloists. For 30 years, the orchestra has maintained a core repertoire of the Viennese classics, but the ensemble is also eager to perform contemporary works and children’s music and to participate in multi-genre productions.

By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Tapiola Sinfonietta

“More than half of our 43 musicians have been in the orchestra since the start in 1987,” says Juha Ahonen, general manager of the orchestra. “We are known for our broad and diverse repertoire, and also for occasionally performing without a conductor. Unlike in any other Finnish orchestra, artistic planning is done by the orchestra itself.”

The home stage is at the Espoo Cultural Centre in Tapiola, Espoo. It is located just outside Helsinki and is easily reached by the underground in just 15 minutes. They also play at the Sello Hall in Leppävaara, Espoo, and the orchestra tours regularly in Finland and abroad.

Artistic partners Tapiola Sinfonietta has made over 70 recordings, and its finely tuned sound on the records has attracted big names

such as Maestro Mario Venzago, who had heard Tapiola Sinfonietta’s recording and later wanted to partner with the orchestra.

The orchestra is famous for its talented and carefully selected partners, with whom they enter into close collaboration for a period of several years. “We have been appointing Artists in Association since 2006,” explains Ahonen. “In recent years, the multi-talented Finnish guitarist/composer/singer Marzi Nyman and conductor/cellist Klaus Mäkelä have been our artistic partners. This year we appointed conductor Taavi Oramo as our first artist-in-residence.”

They have also co-operated with many local festivals, such as Piano Espoo and April Jazz, and are regular participants at the Helsinki Festival, the largest arts

festival in Finland. These projects enrich the experience for both the orchestra and the festivals – and especially the audience enjoys it. Tapiola Sinfonietta is truly loved by its audience, and they like to give back; they perform also in hospitals, at care homes and schools, and participate in culture clinics and other social projects.

The next season will again bring outstanding concerts to Tapiola. The autumn programme includes, for example, perhaps the world’s best-known conductor, Sir Roger Norrington, conducting his favourite Schumann symphonies.

More contemporary music will be conducted by Taavi Oramo, who brings together contemporary music by, among others, Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead) with the most expressive composers of the early 20th century, Schönberg and Skrjabin. Klaus Mäkelä conducts a series of Beethoven with the virtuoso Emmanuel Ceysson as soloist.

Web: www.tapiolasinfonietta.fi Facebook: tapiolasinfonietta Instagram: @tapiolasinfonietta

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Shopping, food and city life in the heart of Kristiansand With a varied and impressive mix of shops, restaurants and cafés, one of the finest grocery shops you can find in Norway, 450 parking spaces available for its guests, and a new hotel, Torvkvartalet is the place to visit for food, fashion, design and wellness in Kristiansand.

having this mix of smaller shops together with an international clothing shop like Zara in town has been very beneficial.”

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Aptum

Restaurants overlooking the square

Since its opening in October 2017, Torvkvartalet has become a popular meeting place in the heart of Kristiansand.

“This new shopping centre is for anyone who wants shopping, food and city life all at once. Even though the building has been renovated, it was important for us, as well as the locals, to take care of the city’s history and charm by keeping parts of the facade as it was,” says owner Jon Bjørgum. He believes that the contrast between modern and old has managed to make the building blend in beautifully with the rest of Kristiansand city centre.

Because of this, Torvkvartalet has won 72 | Issue 125 | June 2019

several awards, while quickly becoming a favoured spot in town.

The shopping centre has a varied selection of shops, with everything from local, independent boutiques to bigger chains.

“This combination of well-known and smaller concepts has worked very well.

Tønnesen 1937, a family-run shop from Mandal, is a great example of a place people love to discover. It offers something quite different from a traditional shoe shop. Another great concept is Retro clothing shop, another well-liked boutique,” he says. “For Kristiansand,

With a row of six restaurants and cafés, all with outdoor seating and excellent views of what is happening on the square, Torvkvartalet has plenty to offer guests of all ages in terms of food. “It was a dream of ours to create a place with an array of restaurants. The aim is to provide a varied dining experience with both Norwegian and international flavours within a distance of 150 metres, making sure we utilise the square to its fullest by creating a space that is alive and buzzing,” Bjørgum explains. “Eat international delicacies at Herlig Land, get Italian flavours at Jonas B., visit Torvet Bistro to try

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

French-inspired food served in warm surroundings, step inside Panda Panda to enjoy healthy salads, smoothies, wraps, soups and coffee, or what about sushi and Asian cuisine at Monsoon?”

There are plenty of possibilities for delicious meals with something available for everyone.

One of the finest grocery shops in Norway “In addition to the great selection of eateries, our Meny Torvet is one of the finest grocery shops you can find in Norway. It offers a lot of inspiration in the form of creative exhibitions, an exEnjoy international delicacies at Herlig Land.

Panda Panda is a unique concept in Kristiansand, a modern and urban café with healthy food.

You can taste sushi and Asian cuisine at Monsoon.

Retro clothing store.

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cellent, skilled staff, and a wide selection of everything you might need,” Bjørgum continues, proudly. The varied offering combined with a friendly and warm atmosphere makes for a very pleasant shopping experience.

Easy parking and a place to rest A great shopping experience begins with convenient parking. Just below Torvkvartalet, with the entrance in Festningsgata, the shopping centre boasts a large garage for guests. With 450 wide parking spaces and 24-hour parking, an area completely without pillars – which can otherwise make parking difficult – and a parking app, you get easy and carefree parking when visiting. And after a busy day of shopping and fun, the shopping centre even has a modern hotel, which makes it easy to unwind and prepare for another day in Kristiansand.

What you can find at Torvkvartalet: Miabell Hudpleie – a family-run skincare salon and shop.

Meny Torvet – a grocery shop with a wide selection of everything you might need.

Tønnesen 1937 – a family-run shoe shop with a large selection of accessories.

Ting – interiors and things with a focus on Nordic design.

Zara – clothing shop for women, men and children.

Starbucks – coffee with a view of the square.

Jonas B. – Italian diner with the city’s best pizza.

Hotel Parken – a new hotel with 184 rooms, located in the middle of the square.

Monsoon Sushi & Asian – a restaurant with warm and cosy interiors.

Apotek1 – pharmacy with a wide selection.

Newbie – clothes in organic cotton, from newborn to size 128.

Torvet Bistro – French cuisine made with Norwegian, local produce.

Herlig Land – restaurant, café and bar located at the city’s most visited corner.

Retro – two large floors of clothes, shoes and accessories for women and men.

Panda Panda – healthy food concept with smoothies, salads and local coffee.

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Happenings With its prime location in the middle of the square, there is always something happening both in and outside Torvkvartalet. “The square is such an important part of the city, and when there are events, everyone gets involved,” says Bjørgum. This summer’s big event takes place on 4 July in the city centre. Known as Handelens Dag, it turns Kristiansand into a big marketplace, which is a truly unique experience. All the shops open at 7am, and anyone can stand outside in the street selling their own goods.

“If you want to experience a day with lots of people and great opportunities for a bargain, then this is the day to come here,” the owner smiles. “We also have exciting things happening when Torvkvartalet turns two this autumn, as well as all year round, so stay tuned.”

Tønnesen 1937 offers something quite different from a traditional shoe shop.

Jonas B.

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

Miabell Hudpleie.

Jonas B. serves up Italian flavours.

Panda Panda.

Herlig Land.

Opening hours: Shops: Monday to Friday: 9am to 8pm Saturday: 10am to 6pm Sunday: Closed Grocery shop Meny Torvet: Monday to Friday: 8am to 9pm Saturday: 8am to 7pm Sunday: Closed

Ting, which means things in Norwegian, sells exactly what the name implies.

Web: www.torvkvartalet.no Facebook: torvkvartalet Instagram: @torvkvartalet

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 75

The outreach production Imprints contributes to Kilden’s inclusive repertoire.

Performing innovation — from the source Kilden Performing Arts Centre in Kristiansand is one of the Nordic region’s most exciting environments for professional performing arts and music. Comprising several groundbreaking institutions supporting innovative performances, Kilden (Norwegian for ‘the source’) strives to challenge, enrich and move.

By Julie Linden | Photos: Kilden Performing Arts Centre

This multifaceted institution houses the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra, Kilden Theatre, Kilden Opera, Kilden Culture and an innovative representation of the social interaction with the audience through the outreach programme Kilden Dialogue and Digital. Together, they represent an unparallelled organisation, which is also one of Norway’s largest houses for performing arts and music. In 2018, close to 200,000 spectators experienced 778 concerts, performances and events at Kilden, performed by a diverse team of more than 20 nationalities.

ing it one of just a few ‘multi art houses’ in Norway. Convening theatre, opera, symphony orchestra and cultural operations under the same roof, we represent an artistic power that is truly one of a kind,” says Janneke Aulie, head of sales and marketing at Kilden. “We are therefore able to produce large productions inhouse, such as musicals, opera and ballets, where our own symphony orchestra contributes from the orchestral pit. There are no other theatres in Norway that are able to programme these types of productions with live music.”

An artistic power house

Kilden Theatre and Concert Hall was completed in 2012, and has since been awarded for its innovative and beautiful

“We are very proud of the versatility and artistic scope that Kilden provides, mak76 | Issue 125 | June 2019

architectural designs. Technically and acoustically, the concert hall is one of Europe's most advanced spaces designed for the performance of live music. The theatre hall enables full-scale productions of musicals and grand operas, with exceptional, high-tech solutions that give directors, scenographers and lighting artists plenty of room to be creative and produce high-quality experiences. Where the orchestra, theatre and opera provide the space with music experiences, performing arts and drama, Kilden Culture ensures engagement and coordination with external actors, and facilitates interactions between the institutions.

Bridging the gap between art and audience “Another point of pride for us is Kilden Dialogue, which has been conceptualised as a centre of expertise for audience engagement, creative art and social practice,” says Aulie. “The project has won several awards for its work with

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

marginalised groups in society, working on areas such as integration and cultural diversity,” she adds, explaining that Kilden Dialogue forms an arena where bridges can be built between audience and art, making the consumption of art accessible to more audiences. “Through our projects, we include and promote amateurs and representatives of marginalised groups. At Kilden, they will be encouraged to explore their resources – and discover and exercise their talents through theatre, dance, song and music.

Often, this happens in collaboration with Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra and Kilden Theatre.”

Challenging the traditional view of art dissemination, Kilden strives to share art productions with those who are not able to seek out cultural offerings themselves. Through digital transfer of image and sound, for instance, Kilden makes concerts and performances available to the elderly at care homes and nursing institutions. This commitment to accessibility also shows in Kilden’s decision to actively engage children and youth.

Every Saturday, there are low-cost performances for children, and hundreds of children have been able to participate interactively in the making of Kilden’s programmes over the years, particularly the outreach productions Spor (‘Imprints’) and Fargespill (‘Caleidoscope’). “Every week, we welcome participants between the ages of zero and 100,” says Aulie,

adding that Kilden Dialogue puts extensive effort into cooperating with schools, institutions and organisations across southern Norway, including the foundation Church City Mission and its project Fotspor (‘Footprints’).

Kilden’s constructions have been awarded for their innovative and beautiful architectural designs.

Theatre in nature – Fjæreheia amphitheatre Beyond indoor productions, Kilden combines the stunning nature of southern Norway with quality theatre through the unique Fjæreheia Amfi in Grimstad.

This amphitheatre, a historical location providing a remarkable experience of art in nature and in front of a nearly 40metre-high granite wall, is one of Kilden’s five permanent stages. The 1999 construction, which can accommodate nearly 1,000 spectators, is set in an old quarry that was once central to the German occupation of Norway during World War II. This summer, from 10 to 20 July, visitors to the theatre will be able to enjoy Henrik Ibsen’s The Lady From The Sea in a raw, visual, open-air version starring Henrik Rafaelsen and Iselin Shumba. “We can’t wait to welcome spectators to Kilden and Fjæreheia, and we look forward to sharing this one-of-a-kind experience with them,” says Aulie.

The unique Fjæreheia Amfi in Grimstad is a remarkable setting for open-air plays and productions.

Web: www.kilden.com Facebook: Kilden Teater og Konserthus Instagram: @kildenkrs

Kilden’s productions often happen in collaboration with Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra.

The unique Fjæreheia Amfi in Grimstad is a remarkable setting for open-air plays and productions.

Henrik Ibsen’s The Lady From The Sea will be playing at Fjæreheia Amfi between 10 and 20 July this summer.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 77

Hotel surrounded by urban life and seaside views Beautiful Kristiansand is the perfect destination for a mini holiday with its wonderful nature and vibrant city life. Right here in the heart of the city, close to numerous cultural attractions, great shopping opportunities and delicious seafood restaurants, you will find the exclusive Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel. Welcome to this historic yet modern hotel, surrounded by urban life and seaside views.

beautiful part of the country for more than 50 years.

ers spent 300 million Norwegian kroner (about 27 million British pounds) on the building, both inside and outside, with the aim for the hotel to take back its position as a vibrant and alive meeting place in Kristiansand,” says director of sales, Anette Espegren. Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel has now opened its doors yet again after the renovations have finished, and is as popular as ever.

Modern design hotel with old charm

Stunning panoramic views

“Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel was recently completely renovated and today appears as a modern design hotel, but still with its old charm intact. The own-

The Norwegian interior designer Anemone Wille Våge has managed to take the hotel’s look back to its original ‘60s style while staying with a modern Nordic

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Studio Dreyer Hensley AS

If you are looking for superior accommodation, Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel in Kristiansand is the perfect base for exploring everything the city and southern Norway have to offer. This historic hotel sits right at the edge of southern Norway overlooking the North Sea and has welcomed guests to this 78 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

look, by using a mix of retro, vintage pieces and newer design. “We want the hotel itself to feel vibrant, but moreover, we also want the interiors to feel alive and everchanging. The owners love searching for treasures at auctions, which results in a space where furniture and decor are constantly changing,” Espegren explains.

Each of its 147 rooms and suites, also in keeping with the ‘60s theme, features panoramic views through floor-toceiling windows, creating an amazing and exclusive atmosphere appreciated by guests. “When you visit us, you will have everything you need for a comfortable stay and a good night’s sleep. And with stunning views like this, there is not really a need for art on the walls,” Espegren smiles.

Ideal for business guests and holiday-goers Kristiansand is a popular area for both business guests and holiday goers from all over the world, which is no wonder

considering the nearby options. “From our hotel, visitors can walk to several popular destinations and attractions, such as the new and exciting indoor climbing-park, X-land; Kilden Teater og Konserthus (Kilden Performing Arts Centre); the former fish landing, Fiskebrygga; or Sørlandets Kunstmuseum (the Southern Norway Art Museum).

We also have popular shops and a great selection of restaurants and bars right on our doorstep, so there is something for everyone to enjoy when staying here,” says Espegren. “In our own Caledonien Hall, we also arrange events and concerts throughout the year, so there is never a dull moment here!”

The hotel is also ideal for corporate settings or events, with 12 different spaces available for anything from larger conferences and meetings to weddings.

Eat, drink and enjoy yourself After a full day of sightseeing, shopping or work, Espegren suggests winding

down with a bite to eat. Take a quick stroll to one of the restaurants in town, or try the seasonal à la carte menu in the hotel’s own Grenseløs Restaurant & Bar. This new and exciting eatery has a boundless concept, serving everything from snacks to delicious pizza from a stone oven.

Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel also prides itself on offering its guests a great bar experience. “Our bar is open to anyone, and a great place to enjoy a drink, whether you want somewhere quiet with a view or somewhere more lively,” Espegren says. With clear inspiration from the speakeasy bars commonly found in the US, Club 21 serves delicious cocktails along with amazing views over the city. “Visit this unique rooftop bar and enjoy a cocktail while overlooking Kristiansand. There’s no better place to relax with a glass of wine or a beer with friends and colleagues, while admiring the view of the beautiful archipelago.”

The view from the rooms over the city, the sea and Odderøya is unbeatable.

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Club 21 serves delicious cocktails with amazing views over the city and DJs playing every weekend.

Stay comfortable also on a budget For those who wish to spend less but still want to use the facilities of Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel while staying central, the nearby Hotel Dronningen is an excellent choice. This comfortable budget hotel has 75 rooms in different varieties and price ranges, making it a great place for relaxation or job sessions in Kristiansand. Some rooms can accommodate six to eight guests.

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“Hotel Dronningen is located in the same quarter as the Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel, and our guests can make use of the facilities here, such as breakfast, dinner at the restaurant, or enjoy the view from the skybar,” says Espegren. “All the rooms are large with comfortable beds and a beautiful view, so it’s a great option for families, companies, sports clubs or larger groups travelling together.” At Hotel Dronningen you will find yourself in a prime location

while on a budget, with walking distance to the ferry, bus, train, shops, culture and nightlife. The hotel is located with direct access from Parko parking house, which is convenient if you arrive by car.

“Whether you are after an exclusive design hotel or need a budget-friendly option, we are happy to provide a wide range of accommodation options in the heart of Kristiansand,” Espegren concludes.

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

Tasty experiences await you in warm surroundings at Grenseløs Restaurant & Bar.

Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel: Web: www.radissonblu.com Facebook: RadissonBluCaledonienHotelKristiansand Instagram: @radcaledonien Grenseløs Restaurant & Bar: Facebook: grenselosrestaurantogbar With 12 meeting rooms of different sizes, and with capacity for a total of 650 guests, events, seminars or meetings can be held at the Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel in Kristiansand.

A modern design hotel with its old charm intact and a ‘60s interior style throughout.

Hotel Dronningen: Web: www.dronningenhotel.no

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Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

Beach holiday in the south of Norway Located on a long, sandy beach, only 15 minutes from Norway’s summer capital, Kristiansand, Åros Feriesenter offers the perfect holiday for families, groups of friends, businesses and everyone else who would like to enjoy picturesque scenery, a heated swimming pool, mini golf and more.

By Synne Johnsson | Photos: Åros Feriesenter

Åros Feriesenter was opened in 1970 by the Herlofsen family, who still owns it today. The holiday resort has 100 cabins and apartments with different capacities and facilities, and at different prices. During the summer they have a heated pool, a mini-golf course, a playground for children, a beach bar with a full licence, and much more.

“It’s the perfect holiday for families as we offer something for all ages: a lot of activities and facilities for children, and a beach bar and restaurant for adults,” says owner and director Kristian Herlofsen. “Kristiansand is a great holiday destination – it’s the ultimate summer city in Norway.”

82 | Issue 125 | June 2019

It is also the perfect destination for boat lovers, as Åros has a guest harbour, so visitors can arrive by boat and enjoy one or a few days on shore at the resort. Moreover, it is only a short distance from the ferry port with departures to Denmark.

Kristiansand is well suited for family holidays, and Åros is close to all the must-sees in the city, like the famous Dyreparken in Kristiansand, Norway’s biggest zoo. There are also several museums, a water park and, crucially, beaches nearby. Located in the very south of Norway, Kristiansand gets hot and sunny weather. There are many lively al fresco restaurants, bars and a lot of nature ex-

periences to enjoy in the summer sun, or even in the winter snow.

“This city, and Åros Feriesenter, is an excellent holiday destination because it is so lively here, while having that relaxed holiday vibe,” says Herlofsen. “It’s just something about the mood here; the locals are known all over Norway for being friendly, which really is the case. Maybe it’s because of the sun and warm weather.”

However, the resort is not only for summer holidays: it offers cheaper offseason prices and stays open all year round. Due to its big capacity, it is ideal for seminars, work trips, schools, sports teams and anyone else who would like to enjoy the southern Norwegian nature.

Web: www.aaros.no Facebook: Åros Feriesenter

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Kristiansand

More than hopeful Hopeful has embarked on the admirable mission of giving young people, who have fallen out of the system in some way, an opportunity to get back into society.

“The most important issue here is that every person is unique and deserves a tailor-made arrangement to reach their goals,” explains manager Tone Olsen Nor. With a team of doers, and together with local businesses and organisations, Hopeful has created a way for young people to re-enter the work force, or to continue studying. “One reason a young person might fall behind is a lack of belief in their own capabilities. Helping them discover and recover faith in themselves is the most important goal we hope to achieve,” explains Nor. The Hopeful team, with help from members of the community, has built a shop and an online retail hub and started several art projects in order to reach this goal.

At the helm of Hopeful sits a former mayor of Kristiansand, Bjørg Wallevik. This, along with the many respected partners they

have on board, says a great deal about the importance of the work Hopeful is doing.

Hopeful also sees how the work they’re doing fits into the bigger picture. “As a society, we spend millions trying to help young people who have fallen behind in many aspects of life. We often fail in getting those who are fit and willing, but lack that helping hand, back on track. The Hopeful concept

Photo: Aptum

By Lisa Maria Berg

allows them to find what interests them and become part of a workplace. This way, we are not only investing in their future, but also in a financially stronger future for the whole country. Getting more businesses and organisations involved is the way to go.

It’s about pulling together,” Nor explains.

Photo: Fædrelandsvennen

Web: www.hopeful.no www.shop.hopeful.no Facebook: hopefulkristiansand Instagram: @hopefulkristiansand

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A Becoming Resemblance, by Heather Dewey-Hagborg

Kunsthall 3.14 — questioning the present, for the future By stimulating dialogue and fuelling dynamic meetings between spectators and art, Kunsthall 3.14 is a champion of contemporary expressions. Over the past 30 years, this non-profit institution has been instrumental in placing Norway on the map of relevant international contemporary art – bringing forth the unknown, and challenging established discourse.

By Julie Lindén and Malin Barth | Photos: Courtesy of Kunsthall 3.14

“Our programme is based on creating dialogue through art, and nurturing a process of interpretation and understanding of our globalised world,” says Malin Barth, director of Kunsthall 3.14.

“We hope to accomplish this in a way that facilitates and validates both individual experiences and collective dialogue and analysis. In doing so, I think 86 | Issue 125 | June 2019

we can challenge preconceived ideas and fixed narratives.”

Diverging from established narratives Kunsthall 3.14, located in the heart of Bergen, has a long-standing history of breaking the mould and branching out from the mainstream. From the very

beginning, the institution has aimed to achieve a diverse and inclusive profile, diverging from the typically western narrative of contemporary art – acknowledging that, while contemporary art has traditionally sprung from the west, the best art is not necessarily created with a western perspective.

“Contemporary art emerged as a western phenomenon, but the new geography of contemporary art production is in an exciting process of erasing the previous monopoly held by the west. It is within this expanded field that we primarily engage and thrive,” says Barth.

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Bergen

Fruits from the Garden and the Field (Rainbow), by Fallen Fruit, David Allen Burns and Austin Young

Embracing the political The institution is indeed one with a global perspective, incorporating important contributions by artists from around the world. Part of this approach is never shying away from the political, says Barth.

“Art is expression and reflection, and it encourages forms of exchange and critical thinking. It also holds the ability to mobilise action. The aim is that the art exhibited at Kunsthall 3.14 should be relevant; the projects are often closely linked to current and pressing social issues. We work with artists who question the present for the future.”

The institution actively pursues emerging artists and their artistic endeavors, while also featuring leading artists and their important and compelling contributions to the art scene. The result is an art institution that always breaks new ground and implements cross-cultural and transnational understandings. “The contributions by artists from around the world encourage a greater range of artistic practices to become instrumental

Murmuri, by Eve Ariza

in developing an artistic discourse. As such, a much wider spectrum of artwork can be experienced by new audiences,” says Barth.

Transcending local discourse Recently, Kunsthall 3.14 has been encouraging its audiences to challenge themselves by engaging with topics of genetic engineering and ethical constraints. The hope is that the exhibits encourage critical thinking when relating to emerging trends in technology and life sciences. Kunsthall 3.14’s massive installation by Eve Ariza, entitled Murmuri, comprised close to 10,000 ceramic bowls mounted on its walls. That exhibit explored the origins of form and sound, as modelled by the first form made by man with intent. The wide scope of contemporary art presented at the institution, like the current exhibition by Sea Hyun Lee, makes for intriguing and thought-provoking visits, no matter when you choose to stop by.

The upcoming project by Fallen Fruit is a visual explosion of capacity to connect

and create shared culture through the role of fruit. The wallpaper pattern installation is creating a viewing environment encouraging action on part of the audience, going out into the world and planting a fruit tree.

“I think I have been exceptionally privileged to have worked with so many fantastic artists from all corners of the globe and through different stages of their career,” says Barth, explaining how global art can bear fruit in local communities. “International art is fuel for any local art scene. It serves the important purpose of widening horizons by allowing a transgression beyond local discourse – and in that, it provides the possibility to recognise the urgency of elsewhere. It is fundamental to the growth of a smaller city scene that wants to function within a greater social and cultural context.”

Web: www.kunsthall314.art

Between Red, by Sea Hyun Lee

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 87

Sweeney Todd, the musical by Stephen Sondheim, is showing from 6 to 8 November 2019. Photo: Aleksander Næs

World-class music in Bergen Bergen in Norway, surrounded by mountains and fjords, is an important cultural city. Not only does it have a thriving popular music scene, visitors can also discover a centre for world-class opera and classical music. With a top-class artistic level, a clear vision and lots of passion, Bergen National Opera (BNO), in collaboration with the historic Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO), captivates its audience, not only in the city’s Grieghallen and at international festivals, but also in unique rural venues. Meanwhile, the orchestra is increasingly bringing its talents to the world, now touring annually.

Unique and thrilling opera experiences

di Tito, together with Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s miraculous music that tells a powerful story and has profound relevance to current times,” Miller says.

Mozart’s overtly political opera, set in Rome, explores the appalling jealousy, ambition and desperate love affairs during the reign of the emperor Tito, drawing parallels to today’s issues around terrorism and fake news. “This year, we are also presenting the famous Sondheim musical, Sweeney Todd – another exciting and powerful story – as well as Britten’s Peter Grimes and Richard Strauss’s Salome,” she continues. All dramatic and thrilling productions set to captivate the audience.

This season features strong emotions: passion and violence. “For example, we are excited to create a modern production of Mozart’s last opera, La Clemenza

“If you have an opera house outside of the capital city, it must have a real identity, something we focus keenly on cre-

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Bergen National Opera and Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra

Bergen National Opera combines dynamic, young, Nordic and international talent with celebrated stars and is highly committed to developing competence in all aspects of opera for the future. “While we work with many great, established talents, we want to give new singers, directors and designers an opportunity, and provide the audience with memora88 | Issue 125 | June 2019

ble, touching experiences,” says opera director Mary Miller.

Scan Magazine | Travel Spotlight | Visit Bergen

Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and chief conductor Edward Gardner.

ating. We try to balance our programme by bringing both the familiar and the unfamiliar to our audience,” she says. “The visual impact is key for us. Opera is about storytelling, and our aim is to make sure that these stories reach everyone and really grip them emotionally.” Even though the core of BNO’s work is to present opera in Grieghallen, Miller recognises the need to engage a wider audience by presenting work in a variety of settings, both in Norway – in historic hotels, in sitespecific venues and in rural places – and overseas, at specialist festivals.

With their programme Young Voices, BNO helps to guide artists at the beginning of their careers, which recently resulted in two of their young talents being cast in small roles in the recent production of Massenet’s Werther. “Currently, we are also planning a project together with schools in western Norway, where children in grade seven can write their own opera with environmental issues as the theme. It’s something we see that these youngsters feel very strongly about,” Miller explains.

One of the world’s oldest orchestras As one of the world’s oldest orchestras, with a rich history, the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra dates back to

The opera Peter Grimes, written by Benjamin Britten, is showing from 21 to 30 November 2019. Photo: Monika Kolstad.

1765 and boasts Edvard Grieg among its former artistic directors. Now, British Edward Gardner, internationally recognised as one of the leading conductors of his generation, has taken over as chief conductor, and the orchestra is shining in the international spotlight.

“There has been a tremendous development in the orchestra over the last few years, and the aim has always been to work towards safeguarding our important Norwegian cultural heritage, in particular Grieg’s music, to develop classical music further and make it available to the broadest possible audience,” says general director Bernt Bauge. He believes that their presence on the international stage is important for growth, and with successful tours to places such as Sweden, Germany, Austria, the UK, Italy, the Netherlands and France behind it, the acclaimed orchestra has certainty obtained great success abroad.

With on average four CDs recorded yearly, and released on international labels, BPO is the Nordic region’s most recorded orchestra. “To try to spread our music even further, we also have an initiative called BergenPhiLive, a free online streaming service where you can tune in to live streams or find recorded concerts

Werther. Photo: Monika Kolstad

Salome, the opera by Richard Strauss, is a co-production between Bergen National Opera, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Bergen International Festival. Showing from 20 to 22 May 2020.

by the orchestra in the archive,” he says.

This was one of the orchestra’s major efforts in 2015, its anniversary year, along with establishing its own youth orchestra, BFUng.

Next Step This year, as well as working together with BNO, BPO can tempt audiences with an exciting programme consisting of everything from music from Star Wars to a celebration of the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth. Its latest concept, named Next Step, is described as a journey through music and science, reflecting on Neil Armstrong’s familiar words: ‘that’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind’. “There will be a series of concerts and lectures in collaboration with the University of Bergen to explore what the next step of mankind will be in relation to space, the ocean, the climate and the future,” says Bauge.

Bergen National Opera: Web: www.bno.no Facebook: bergennasjonaleopera Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra: Web: www.harmonien.no Facebook: MusikkselskapetHarmonien

The Flying Dutchman. Photo: Monika Kolstad

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CPH Garden. Photo: Haveselskabet

From salt-making to community arts — behold the very best of Danish cultural ideas This month, as we continue our journey through the impressively rich and varied jungle that is Denmark’s culture scene, we press pause on traditional fine arts and seafaring history for a moment, in favour of a focus on ideas.

Inspired by the renowned garden shows in London and beyond, a new garden show full of promising ideas has seen the light of day in Denmark. Born out of a hangover, meanwhile, is the folk music festival Ild i Gilden, while Læsø 90 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Salt has pulled off the feat of reconstructing the salt-making processes from the Middle Ages.

Add a look at the inspiring legacy of one of the oldest monasteries in Denmark,

and a social culture house that brings classes and performances out into the community, and you will see that Denmark’s culture scene is prosperous – and well worth a deep-dive.

For more information on attractions, accommodation and travel, please visit: www.visitdenmark.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

Photo: Esrum Kloster

Klaverfabrikken. Photo: Simon Zarling and Mathis Emil Jønsson

Danmarks underholdningsorkester, The Franz Liszt Academy, Budapest. Photo: DUO

Photo: Læsø Salt

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 91

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

Læsø Salt is produced in salt seething huts using production methods dating back to the Middle Ages.

Shaping the future with remnants from the past It started off as an experiment in 1991. Would it be possible to reconstruct the salt-making processes that date all the way back to the Middle Ages? Fast-forward almost two decades, and Læsø Salt has created permanent jobs and a globally renowned brand that attracts many thousands of tourists to the Danish island of Læsø every year – all while remaining true to ancient production methods.

island. We rely on wood for production, but it’s all sourced locally and we only harvest from the growth. We do what we can to help in shaping a better tomorrow,” Ladefoged says.

By Camilla Pedersen | Photos: Læsø Salt

Five iron pans are now required to meet the demands from near and far, totalling 80 tonnes of salt a year, but Læsø Saltworks is much more than a production facility. Employees welcome upwards of 85,000 visitors yearly, who come to learn about the ancient production methods first-hand. Some even make their own salt in the designated mini pan facility, before visiting the shop that boasts a wide selection of products using the famous Læsø Salt, including skincare, chocolate, liquorice and the latest product addition: an American ale.

“Læsø’s salt production goes all the way back to the Middle Ages and has shaped the island ever since, due to the unique characteristics of the island – it has large forest areas, and the ground water around Roennerne can contain up to ten or even 12 per cent salt,” director Jeppe Ladefoged explains.

With these natural resources readily available, archaeologist Jens Vellev decided to reconstruct one of the several medieval saltworks that had been found during archaeological excavations on the island, so that he could explore ancient salt-production methods. With the help of locals, Læsø Salt became a reality in 1991. Poul Christensen, now known 92 | Issue 125 | June 2019

as Seething-Poul, was involved from the start and took in local, unemployed youngsters. Together, they soon learned everything about the craft, including salt seething – the process of heating saline ground water in large iron pans until the salt crystallises.

In 2004, Læsø Salt went from a historical workshop to a company that could create jobs – the experiment had been successful. “We’re very conscious of our social and environmental responsibility, and being able to support the local island community with permanent employment was a big milestone. Our salt is sold in organic white cotton bags that are sewn and printed locally here on the

Web: www.laesoesalt.com Facebook: laesoesalt Instagram: @laesosalt

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

CPH Garden — growing new ideas Inspired by the grand garden shows of places like London, as well as the Danish folk high school tradition, CPH Garden combines captivating show gardens with a broad programme of debates and lectures. Scan Magazine talks to CEO Charlotte Garby about how and why Copenhagen’s new garden show aims to cultivate not just gardens, but also new ideas.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Haveselskabet

“Our garden show was created with inspiration from England, but with a distinctly Danish twist,” says Garby. “It’s like a garden folk high school with something for everyone with an interest in gardening; we’re cultivating not just gardens, but knowledge.”

Founded three years ago, CPH Garden is still young, but the organisation behind it, Haveselskabet (the Royal Danish Horticultural Society), has existed since 1880. To create CPH Garden, the organisation joined forces with gardening experts from all over the world, resulting in a programme bursting with talks, product presentations, and activities focused on all aspects of gardening, from sustainability and bees to photography and the health benefits of gardening. “We have a programme packed with shows

and a number of big international names within gardening,” says Garby. “Guests can, for instance, meet Andi Pettis, the director of horticulture on New York’s High Line, and the English garden photographer Clive Nichols.”

It is, however, still the show’s eight large show gardens that are the main attraction.

The gardens are created around different themes, such as ‘jungle’, ‘a midsummer night’s dream’ and ‘the garden of the future’, and will provide inspiration for both new and old garden enthusiasts. “It’s a bit like the big catwalk event within gardening,” says Garby and rounds off: “We also focus on edible gardens, because that’s an area that’s picking up a lot of attention. It’s almost like the interest in gardening had skipped a generation, but now it’s coming back, and that’s just amazing to see.”

Facts: Date: 20-23 June, 2019 (10am to 6pm all days) Place: Marbækstien in Ballerup (a 30-minute drive from Copenhagen) Admission: 200 DKK (around 24 GBP) About Haveselskabet: Originally founded in 1830, and given its current official name, Det Kgl. Danske Haveselskab (the Royal Danish Horticultural Society) in 1880, Haveselskabet, as the society is more commonly referred to as, is the world’s second-oldest garden society.

Web: www.haveselskabet.dk/cphgarden

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 93

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

Exploring photography beyond the hashtag Copenhagen Photo Festival, Scandinavia’s largest photo event, is celebrating its tenyear anniversary with a new festival centre at Refshaleøen and exhibitions all over Copenhagen. The festival takes place from 6 to 16 June 2019.

Ten years ago, Copenhagen Photo festival was founded with the ambition of creating one of the five most important photo festivals in Europe. This summer, as the festival presents nearly 60 exhibitions throughout Copenhagen and southern Sweden, it looks well on its way to achieving that aim. Festival director Maja Dyrehauge Gregersen explains: “There are a lot of very talented Danish photographers, but the ambition of the founders of the festival was not just to create more awareness about them, but also to bring more international photography to Denmark.”

Thanks to smartphones and social media, the interest for photography, both as fine art and as documentary photography, has grown rapidly since the festival’s foundation. With the three pillars of Framing Society, Framing Vision and Framing Iden-

tity, the festival aims to bridge the many new perceptions of the media. “We all have some kind of relationship to photography,” says Gregersen. “That’s why it’s important to us that we present it in a way that’s relatable to everyone. But we also want to challenge the audience’s way of looking at the world. It’s a medium we all use, but it’s also a medium that is used politically and has a massive impact on social media.”

By Signe Hansen

At the festival centre at Refshaleøen, Copenhagen’s new vibrant urban space, visitors will find eight exhibitions with worldclass photographers and emerging talents.

There will also be a number of free and outdoor exhibitions all over Copenhagen, including exhibitions at Broens Gadekøkken, Højbro Plads, and outside BLOX.

The festival has its own container hall. Photo from the festival in 2017. Photo: Skipper Photography

Copenhagen Photo Festival 6-16 June, 2019 Mary Frey: from the series Domestic Rituals. One of this year’s main exhibitions at the festival centre.

For a full programme, see the website: www.copenhagenphotofestival.com

A social culture house The social aspect is a cornerstone for culture house Klaverfabrikken, where over 300 volunteers help to give it a family vibe.

By Nicolai Lisberg | Photos: Simon Zarling and Mathis Emil Jønsson

Sewing, dancing, sculpture work, children’s theatre, music, visual art, concerts and so much more – Klaverfabrikken is a multicultural house full of offerings for everyone, but what really makes it stand out is the special feeling you get when visiting. “The people who come, they come because it’s an enjoyable place to be. It’s as simple as that. If they didn’t like it here, they would just sit at home and sew, but they love the other people, the atmosphere and that friendly feeling we have,” says Jens Trolle-Busck Jepsen, general manager at Klaverfabrikken.

The culture house was founded in 1996, and today over 300 volunteers help manage it. The youngest is 15 years old and the oldest one is 91. “We have a sort of family vibe here, where everyone wants 94 | Issue 125 | June 2019

to maintain and pass on that vibe to new volunteers. And because it is such a warm and welcoming place to be, my feeling is that people are more open-minded when it comes to trying other cultural things,” says Jepsen.

Most of the classes have an extra social value, as Klaverfabrikken visits various

places in the local community and performs for children in kindergartens and the elderly in nursing homes. “The cultural offerings, the social value and the special togetherness are the three things that matter the most to us. Our community is an inclusive one, and there is always room for more people,” Jepsen assures.

Web: www.klaverfabrikken.dk Facebook: Klaverfabrikken Instagram: @Klaverfabrikken YouTube: Klaverfabrikken

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

DUO during its Budapest tour. Photo: DUO, The Franz Liszt Academy, Budapest

HUSH concert.

Photo: Mathias Løvegreen Bojesen

Mozart i midten concert. Photo: Malthe Ivarsson

HUSH concert. Photo: Nikolaj Lund

Symphonies with entertainment value The Danish National Chamber Orchestra has a long and famous history in Denmark.

As is evident in the orchestra’s Danish name, Denmark’s Entertainment Orchestra, it has helped to make classical music accessible, fun and engaging, providing ordinary people with the joy and magic of everything from Schubert to The Sound of Music since 1943. In recent years, the orchestra has had its ups and downs – its crescendos and its diminuendos – but it has emerged happier and with more vitality than ever.

By Louise Older Steffensen

In May, director Andreas Vetö, conductor Adam Fischer and the rest of the orchestra returned from a triumphant European tour of its Beethoven symphonies. “It went superbly,” the delighted director reveals. “It’s always a joy to watch Adam work his magic on the musicians as well as the audience, and it’s impossible not to get caught up in his joy for the music. He perfectly embodies the attitude and values of our orchestra.”

The Chamber Orchestra was a beloved part of DR, Denmark’s Broadcasting Association, until 2015, when it fell victim to budget cuts despite public outcry. “We’d only just won Best Collection for our collection of Mozart’s symphonies at the In-

ternational Classical Music Awards, one of the most prestigious prizes in the business, so it was evident that we couldn’t just let our orchestra die,” Vetö says.

Orchestra on its own accord Crucially, the highly talented musicians were willing to put their time and careers on the line to ensure the survival of the orchestra – and today, the orchestra is privately owned by their independent musicians’ association. “We’ve had to learn to become entrepreneurs, to find new ways of setting up partnerships nationally and internationally,” Vetö says. “It’s up to us now. We have to make this work, but we’re also free to be a classical orchestra for the 21st century. I think this change has

given us a great new outlook on what we can and should be.”

Vetö and the orchestra take particular pride in the engagement and diversity of their audience. “The orchestra’s highest duty has always been to inspire people from all across society,” Vetö states.

“We’ve recently set up a ten-year partnership with Viborg municipality, to get children involved with playing with us, and we hope to reach children as well as adults across the world.” With concerts spanning everything from Nat King Cole to the Great Christmas Show with Burhan G, the Chamber Orchestra promises classical music for everyone. “In our hectic world, it’s so important to be able to sit back and just be together in the moment, enjoying something as universally beautiful as music.”

Web: www.underholdningsorkester.dk Facebook: Underholdningsorkester Instagram: @dkunderholdningsorkester

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

The small Ild i Gilden festival is characterised by a creative, informal and inclusive atmosphere.

A festival that marches to its own beat Focused on modern folk music and set in a commune in Roskilde, Ild i Gilden is a festival like no other. In 2017, the event originated during a hangover but has since evolved into three days of creativity, bonfires and acoustic music.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Nanna Andreasen

It all started with a day of hangovers, during which friends Mark Langer and Daniel Nayberg began to plan “the best garden party ever”. However, unlike most hangover plans, it did not stay at just that.

Instead, the plan escalated and grew into a three-day festival of folk music. This year, the organisers expect around 700 to 1,000 people to join, and their ambition of introducing a new audience to folk music thus looks well on its way to being achieved.

“Our aim is that people leave with a feeling of having experienced something completely new, something unusual and surprising,” says Langer. “A lot of the musicians we present will never be played on the radio; they’re not mainstream, but they’re extremely talented professional musicians who tour the world with their music.”

96 | Issue 125 | June 2019

It is not just Ild i Gilden’s music programme that is different from that of other festivals. The festival is created as a non-profit event, with ticket prices left more or less up to the guests. “So many festivals have become too expensive – big money machines – and that’s not what we wanted. We want it to be an inclusive and informal event where everyone can come by – that’s also why we don’t have the area fenced off or anything,” explains Langer.

This means that when buying tickets, guests can decide how much they want to pay. There is, however, a minimum price of 150 DKK (about 18 GBP), as this was a requirement from the funder supporting the festival. “We’d rather that it’d be entirely up to our guests, but I guess it’s fair enough when you ask funders for money, that they don’t want you to give it all away for free,” Langer laughs.

As in previous years, the festival programme will present a mix of Nordic and international and innovative folk musicians, such as the soulful Danish trio Dreamer’s Circus and the impossible-todescribe, must-be-experienced Finnish accordionist Antti Paalanen. The festival will also include daily yoga classes, organic food and drink, storytelling, workshops and much more.

Place: Gildesgård, Kamstrupvej 60, 4000 Roskilde Date: 7-9 June 2019 (warm-up 5-6 June) Tickets: Online, minimum price 150 DKK (around 18 GBP).

Web: www.ildigilden.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

Photo: GoBoat

A sustainable experience that opens up cities from the water GoBoat is a unique experience on water, like nothing you have tried before. You can explore cities like Copenhagen, London and Melbourne from the waterfront in a sustainable boat, and savour a delicious picnic basket while gazing at the city from a new perspective.

By Heidi Kokborg | Photos: Abdellah Ihadian

The concept at GoBoat is simple: rent a GoBoat and have a unique experience, where you can enjoy the city, the waterfront and the beautiful, cosy canals by water. “We wish to give people an experience that lasts a long time, but it is more than just an experience. It is memories and social gatherings,” says Kasper Eich-Romme, co-founder of GoBoat. All three founders are passionate about maritime values and wanted GoBoat to reflect these. “We wave and smile more to each other when we are on water. There is a certain feeling of freedom, joy and calmness, and it creates a unique space for social gatherings,” Eich-Romme smiles.

GoBoat has also created a boat that embraces these values. On each boat, there is a table in the middle where you can enjoy a meal and the motor is silent.

“You can peacefully and quietly experi-

ence the city. It is a great time to slow down and spend some quality time with people you love,” says Eich-Romme.

A sustainable experience – worldwide Since 2014, when GoBoat was founded in Copenhagen, the company has had close to one million customers, and they have sailed around the world many times on green energy. “Sustainability has been a central part of GoBoat from day one. All our boats are powered by green energy. We want to leave as few carbon footprints as possible and protect the harbour environment,” says Eich-Romme. “We want to give people a memorable, as well as a sustainable, experience.”

Currently, GoBoat is available in Copenhagen, London, Melbourne, Canberra, Aalborg, and Malmö, but the

founders have even greater ambitions.

“We have had success since the beginning, and now that we are fully established and have proven the business model, we are looking to expand to more cities through our franchise concept. So if your city has water and you want to own a great lifestyle business, please check out our partner website,” says Eich-Romme.

“GoBoat is an amazing way to experience any city with canals or lakes, and people really love it.”

Web: DK: www.goboat.dk UK: www.goboat.co.uk AUS: www.goboatmelbourne.com.au SE: www.goboat.se

Partner website: www.goboatpartner.com Instagram: @goboatcph

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 97

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Visit Denmark

A taste of medieval life An hour’s drive north from Copenhagen, you will find Esrum Abbey, one of the oldest monasteries in Denmark. Completed in 1151 by the Cistercian order, it became a powerful northern centre for the spread and reinforcement of Catholicism. Though its religious inhabitants are now long gone, the abbey continues their legacy today, giving modern visitors of all ages a chance to get a taste of their medieval lives – sometimes quite literally.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photow: Esrum Kloster

At the height of its power, Esrum Abbey owned two-thirds of Northern Zealand, overseeing monasteries as far away as Poland and Germany. Though the religious complex was turned over to the king at Denmark’s turn to Lutheranism, the impressive abbey still to this day holds its own at the shore of Denmark’s second-largest lake, surrounded by the endless, blossoming nature that now makes up the Royal Retreat national park.

“Esrum’s monks had a very close relationship to their natural surroundings,” says head of communications, Kristina Bille Nielsen. “They had to be self-sufficient and

made farming into an art form, from propagating fruit trees to making cheese – Esrom cheese is still around today. It’s become a huge part of our story here – experiencing the Middle Ages hands-on through food, activities and storytelling really brings these people’s history to life. We provide those experiences for everyone, from fairly grownup adults learning far too much about the monks’ beer brewing at company outings to school children experiencing the lives of medieval children.”

On 15 and 16 June, Esrum Abbey hosts its annual medieval festival, when medieval merchants, tradesmen, knights and fools

turn up to make the Middle Ages interactive for families as well as experienced history nerds – a trend continued throughout the summer holidays, which will culminate in August’s harvest festival. The large playground and guided tours are available throughout the year, while October sees the reopening of the abbey’s interactive interior exhibitions. Themed medieval feasts take place throughout the rest of the year, and you would be an honoured guest.

Medieval market.

Web: www.esrum.dk Facebook: esrumkloster Instagram: @esrumkloster

Knejpe Festival in Helsingør — the gateway to the rest of the world Knejpe Festival celebrates the history of Helsingør. The two-day festival runs in October each year, when the streets of the town transform into a bustling folk festival.

By Emilie Kristensen-McLachlan | Photos: Knejpe Festival

Every year in October, Helsingør is brimming with the people and activities of Knejpe Festival. The festival, which has been running since 2011, celebrates the history of Helsingør in a very unique way, highlighting the town’s reputation as a gateway to the rest of the world.

“Back in the day, we had up to 500 ships out in Øresund, waiting to pay taxes in Helsingør before they could continue their journey. What did people do while they were waiting to pay? They partied and drank,” says Søs Krogh Vikkelsøe, head of Knejpe Festival.

The streets of Helsingør are the setting for two days of live music from Denmark as well as abroad, street performers, storytell98 | Issue 125 | June 2019

ers, and plenty of beer. Many of the locations for the festival programme are the old pubs and taverns – the places where you can imagine the sailors would have gone themselves. “The festival is a treasure. It’s a local folk festival, but really, it’s international as well,” says Krogh Vikkelsøe.

The festival is a great way to experience the town outside of the tourist season. Businesses, organisations and locals all come together to celebrate the town’s history, and the whole area is bustling with energy, guests and celebration. “You can walk from one place to another and just enjoy the festival. There’s a lovely atmosphere with a lot of laughter and banter in the streets,” says Krogh Vikkelsøe.

Web: www.knejpe-festival.dk Facebook: KnejpeFestival

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | xxxxx

Scan Business Business Profiles 100 | Conference of the Month 102 | Business Column 104 | Business Calendar 104

100

101

What is my vision?

More often than not, our networking activities – and thus our gains – are decided by pure chance. Formulating a clear vision of what you want to achieve with your network gives you visible guidelines that you can follow in a goal-orientated way.

The world is ever-evolving. That is why your vision can only be assumed to be valid a year in advance. The subjects on which you focus could be education, a new job, setting up a business, expanding your business, or something very personal you would like to achieve.

Once your vision has been set out, you have to determine which processes it must go through to succeed. What type of competences, knowledge, experience and economic environment do you need, and should there be a specific order?

Next, focus on your potential challenges: What might you need help with? Which problems would you find it difficult to address on your own? The problem areas with which we need help often halt our aspirations and visions. By facing these obstacles, however, you can start breaking down the barriers.

One phase of this process is having the courage to tell the people around you

102

By Simone Andersen

about your vision and your challenges.

The advantage of expressing your vision is that, whenever you talk about it, you raise awareness of it and enable your network to come up with possible solutions.

In certain cases, of course, we are dealing with questions of patents and sensitive subjects that are not suitable for publication. But talking about your dreams and visions can be a great door-opener for you. Think about how privileged you have felt in the past, when a contact let you in on their new venture or passion.

Exercise: 1. Take one hour to describe your most important vision for the following year: what would you like to achieve? For example, if you would like to give your job functions an overhaul, the following questions might be relevant: where are you heading professionally, and what role or kind of business are you going for? Your vision should be as concrete as possible. The more concrete, the more operational.

2. When you have ascertained your vision, conduct a critical evaluation and identify your challenges. What can you do to achieve your mission, and what do you need help with? Identify your top-three most important challenges.

Simone Andersen is a journalist with a master’s degree in media science. She worked for many years at the Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR) as an editor and talk show host and is an expert in business networking and building relationships. She is also a speaker and author of the bestseller The Networking Book, 50 ways to develop strategic relationships.

This column is from her book, which is now published in English as well as Danish and available to buy in online shops.

sla@strategisk.dk www.thenetworkercompany.com

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 99

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | vi2sammen.dk

Elin Steppat Hausle.

Building healthy workplaces through communication and an analytical approach Newly established Copenhagen company Vi2sammen offers smaller businesses a combination of legal, contractual and health and safety services.

mance appraisal (‘MUS’) interviews for employees.

By Jane Graham | Photos: Vi2sammen

“We can make suggestions as to how they can be made less daunting,” Steppat Hausle explains. “One way is to break them down into small, bite-sized chunks. For example, you can sit down over a cup of coffee in the canteen for ten minutes a couple of times over a month, without the pressure of a formal interview. That way, it doesn’t seem like it’s taking up so much of anyone’s time.”

For many small and medium-sized businesses, work with employee satisfaction and health and safety can be hard to combine with the everyday needs of helping their customers by doing what they’re best at, be it fitting bathrooms or landscaping gardens. Many managers and owners feel out of their depth in HR tasks that are not their strong side, which can cause stress when it comes to mandatory annual audits and inspections.

Elin Steppat Hausle, from Vi2sammen (which translates as ‘We 2 together’), offers what is quite possibly a wholly unique service in Denmark, handling health, safety and environment (often referred to as HSE) from a legal management perspective. “I combine the hard with the soft,” says Hausle. “The legal side with the softer workplace satisfaction elements. Most 100 | Issue 125 | June 2019

firms tend to concentrate on one area or the other – we combine them and find the connections.”

Steppat Hausle started the firm at the beginning of 2019, after working as a HR manager and mediator for many years in the private sector, and has already seen her services filling a need. “If you’re a contractor who would rather be out constructing houses than analysing absence data, that’s okay, because we can take care of it for you.” You can even hire a HR manager for a week, or a day – however long you need.

Another popular service Vi2sammen offers is to take care of the mandatory annual reviews and assessments that all companies, even small ones, are obliged to complete in Denmark.

One area that has really taken off is assistance with the annual perfor-

She adds: “Most problems in a company can generally be fixed with an analytical approach. We sit down together, look at the data. By identifying the problems, we can alert companies to areas they need to work on.”

Based in Copenhagen, Steppat Hausle visits companies all over Denmark. You can contact her through the website to arrange an interview.

Web: www.vi2sammen.dk

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Luxafor

Red light busy, green light free One of the challenges of open-plan offices is finding a balance between teamworking and giving each other space. The LED-light indicator Luxafor helps companies do just that.

By Emilie Kristensen-McLachlan | Photos: Luxafor

Most people working in 21st-century offices know the feeling of having that bright idea or the solution to a problem on the tip of their tongue – only to be interrupted by a colleague sitting next to them in the open-plan office. This exact challenge was the driving force behind Luxafor: a small, USB-connected device in your computer that lights up, telling your colleague whether you have time to talk or if they should

come back later. One of the companies that has tried and tested the Luxafor is Bravida Denmark. “Our productivity has improved because it’s easier to talk to others, and you will know immediately whether they can be interrupted,” says back-office group leader Aase Søndergaard.

Luxafor works by showing whether you’re free to talk. Red will light up when you’re busy. When the green light is on, it means

you’re free to talk. This has made a difference to Søndergaard in particular when working on projects with tight deadlines. “The red light is a life-saver, but in some ways, I actually think the green light is even more useful.

Now I can interrupt my colleagues without feeling guilty,” says Søndergaard.

Feeling less guilty, working better in a team, and being more productive are three of the cornerstones of Luxafor. Their focus is on creating a better working environment, where you and your colleagues respect each other’s light – and time.

Web: www.luxafor.dk

Luxafor lights up red or green depending on whether you are free to talk or busy at the moment.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 101

Scan Magazine | Conference of the Month | Denmark

Despite its beauty, it is not Bautahøj’s seaside location, but its guest-centred service strategy that has earned it the prize as Conference Centre of the Year 2019.

Bautahøj comprises 23 meeting and event rooms.

Conference of the Month, Denmark

A winning change After a string of challenging years, Bautahøj has cemented its transformation into a top-class event venue by winning the prize as Denmark’s best conference centre.

The transformation is the result of a number of guest-centred changes, adding to the centre’s natural seaside appeal.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Bautahøj

With 8,000 square metres of event and hotel facilities set in beautiful surroundings, Bautahøj has always had the potential to be among the best. However, during the last decade, the centre had begun to show signs of fatigue. Thus, when taking over the management in 2016, CEO Jakob Buus knew that something had to change. “The first thing we did was to ask our biggest clients for help in identifying the areas we needed to improve,” he explains. “But the most significant change we made was a new strategy for our approach to guest service – we dedicated ourselves to being 100 per cent present at all times.”

This ambition has, among other things, resulted in a number of features that allow staff to be present in the venue at all times. Among them is a baking station 102 | Issue 125 | June 2019

in the middle of the conference area, giving guests a reason to pause and enjoy the scent of coffee and fresh bread.

“We also set up several indoor conservatories to bring nature inside the centre and allow our guests to stop and have a bit of a chat. It also gives our staff a chance to check in with guests and

In brief: Bautahøj is exclusively available to business guests during the week.

Weekends are open to all kinds of events, and the centre is a popular venue for weddings and confirmations.

The centre also hosts a string of popular intimate concerts with Danish musicians.

check that everything is alright,” says Buus. He estimates that, on a regular day, a guest will be in contact with staff approximately 25 times. This means, he stresses, that as soon as an issue arises, staff will be ready to pick up on it, step in and rectify it, before it becomes an actual problem.

The new initiatives build on the venue’s exciting qualities, such as its seaside location, pool, fitness centre and beautiful surrounding park area, which has been further enhanced with beehives and a new vineyard.

Bautahøj comprises: • 84 hotel rooms, many with sea views • 23 meeting rooms • Conference facilities with room for up to 160 people • Pool and fitness centre • A 90,000-square-metre park area

Web: www.bautahoj.dk

Scan Magazine | Business | Column/Calendar

What about the workers?

The pay of the CEOs of the FTSE100 went up by 11 per cent last year. The fat cats – average income 3.92 million GBP (that’s 1,000 GBP an hour) – had raked in by 4 January what it takes their average employee a year to earn. Remuneration committees – and government – have completely failed to address this deep flaw in modern capitalism.

In Scandinavia, worker directors are part of the corporate landscape, and I have at least anecdotal evidence that trade unionists on the board act as a constraint on some of the worst excesses of executive pay. In France and Germany, works councils also encourage managements to pay heed to their most important stakeholders: their own workers.

At European level, the EU requires companies with more than 1,000 employees and operating in at least two countries to establish a European Works Council (EWC). Managements must consult, though not negotiate, with employee representatives from the different national subsidiaries at least once a year on issues of transnational concern to companies’ employees.

Some EWCs are a badly organised waste of space, with impenetrable presentations from managers interspersed with droning speeches from left-wing politicos. But increasing numbers of EWCs have become important vehicles for two-way communication between employees and bosses at a panEuropean level.

At one EWC meeting I observed recently, the well-organised members presented a series of policy proposals designed to ensure that best employment practices in the home country would be rolled out across all the subsidiaries, and that declared corporate values would be properly adhered to. They were greeted positively by the company’s employee relations director. “You are gaining in

By Steve Flinders strength and I welcome this,” he told them.

“Your strength ultimately translates into greater strength for the company.”

Such approaches foster partnership and trust between management and employees in European companies, the opposite of the cynicism that characterises the greed of the 1,000 GPB-per-hour CEOs.

Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com

Business Calendar

By Sanne Wass

Scandinavian business events you do not want to miss this month Social media workshop The Danish-UK Association presents this workshop on social media, hosted at Adwaiz, a London-based digital marketing agency. Participants will learn how to engage, influence and inspire social media audiences through the clever use of influencer marketing and eye-catching content, and also be taken through case studies such as Fyre Festival, the notorious influencer marketing scam from 2017.

Speakers include Patrick Smith, Adwaiz CEO and the creator of Instagram’s famous Londonfoodboy.

Date: 19 June 2019, 6.30-9.15pm Venue: Adwaiz, 71-73 Carter Lane, London EC4V 5EQ, UK. www.dkuk.org

NBCC annual summer BBQ in Aberdeen The Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce’s annual summer BBQ in Aberdeen provides the perfect occassion to network with colleagues, business partners 104 | Issue 125 | June 2019

and other Norway-focused professionals.

The event, which is open to both members and non-members, will also host a raffle in support of Maggie’s Centre and the Norwegian Church for Seafarers in Aberdeen.

Date: 19 June 2019, 6-9pm Venue: The Park Café Hazlehead, Hazlehead Avenue, Aberdeen AB15 8BJ, UK www.nbccuk.com

Nordic Impact Business Summit The Nordic Impact Business Summit will debut in the Old Stock Exchange building in Copenhagen. According to the organisers, this event is “neither a trade show, a conference nor a pitch contest”. Instead, it’s a kind of matching day, pairing 50 promising Nordic impact companies with business developers, market experts and potential investors to help them improve their business and solutions for a better world.

Date: 20 June 2019 Venue: Børsen, 1217 København K, Denmark www.oneinitiative.org

Startup Extreme Norway Once a year, some of the most influential figures in the world of tech make their way to Voss, in Norway, for Startup Extreme – a festival dedicated to fostering the growth of entrepreneurship. Describing the event as “a vibrant, humble and participatory festival”, the organisers aim to create an authentic way to showcase the pulse of the Norwegian and Nordic tech start-up scene. The event will take place over two days and involve outdoor activities, thought-provoking speeches and debates, performances and more.

Date: 24-26 June 2019 Venue: Ekstremsportveko, Vangsgata 28, 5700 Voss, Norway. www.startupextreme.co

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Sweden

Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

A taste of Sweden’s south-west At Erikstorp, influences from southern Europe are coupled with local ingredients from the county of Skåne. The restaurant is a food haven that has pinned the coastal city of Landskrona to Sweden’s gastronomical map. Creativity, craftmanship and a relaxed atmosphere make this restaurant well worth a visit.

By Emma Rödin | Photos: Erikstorp

Run by Ludvig Odeholm and Dion Liljegren, Erikstorp has successfully established itself as a go-to destination for anyone seeking a solid food experience. Built on the pillars of knowledge and responsibility, Erikstorp only partners up with producers who meet its strict requirements of animal welfare and climate impact, and, of course, quality and taste. “As a guest, you should know that everything served here is well thought-out, from soil to plate,” says head chef Odeholm.

It is truly the choice of produce that sets Erikstorp apart from competitors.

Odeholm explains: “Skåne has a lot to offer, from top-quality vegetables and wild herbs to fish from the local fishermen in Borstahusen. All this lets us do what we love with a clean conscience.”

The duo also emphasises how restrict-

ing their produce has a positive impact on creativity, and confirming this strong commitment to honest, good food is the establishment’s KRAV certification, Sweden’s top endorsement for environmentally friendly food.

Offering breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner, as well as hosting conferences and events, the small team of seven at Erikstorp is no doubt staying busy. “I believe we are somewhat unique in the way we work. Our team might be small, but everyone gives 100 per cent, and we’re all passionate about the business. It just works,” says Liljegren, who manages the restaurant at Erikstorp.

A great building block of Erikstorp is Matakademin (‘the food academy’), which comprises everything done outside of everyday engagements. Among other

things, Matakademin tests new recipes, invites inspiring guest chefs, matches wines with food, and hosts cooking classes for kids. The latter has proved highly successful: by cooking a three-course meal for friends and family, kids are encouraged to explore flavours and learn about the compositions of food.

Odeholm and Liljegren describe themselves as never fully satisfied, always working to improve. “We see it in two ways: yes, it’s hard work, but because the restaurant industry is constantly changing, you have to push yourself to keep up.

It’s always worth it,” concludes Liljegren.

Seasonal produce and flavours make up the vibrant dishes at Erikstorp.

Web: www.erikstorpskungsgard.se Instagram: @erikstorpskungsgard

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 105

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

Coastal gastronomy from Sunnmøre At Bro in Ålesund, you are invited on a journey through the coastal gastronomy of Sunnmøre. With great views and a vibrant western Norwegian-inspired menu, this new restaurant has quickly become a favourite among locals and tourists alike: a place to taste new flavours, learn new things, chat, laugh, work and relax.

By Ingrid Opstad | Photos: Kristin Stoylen

A fantastic view over Brosundet, coupled with the employees’ expert insight into the culinary world, enhances the unique holistic experience when visiting Bro. It all started in June last year, when head chef Ronny Kolvik, restaurant manager Joakim Hoff and general manager Ann-Helen Svinø moved from Oslo to Ålesund and together decided to open a restaurant. Among the co-owners are also Ante Giskeødegård and Lars Giskeødegård, who together founded several festivals in Norway, such as Jugendfest in Ålesund and 106 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Sommerfesten at Giske together with Momentium.

Building a bridge between food and culture “Our aim was not only to open a restaurant with a concept that focused on the rich, traditional coastal gastronomy of Sunnmøre, but also to be a part of the thriving culture scene we have here in Ålesund,” says Kolvik, who has several years of previous experience as head chef and general manager of Oslo’s renowned Arakataka.

The name Bro, which in Norwegian means bridge, came from the location, but also the wish to help build a bridge between food and culture. “We put on small concerts, debates and other cultural events with a focus on food throughout the year, but also collaborate with other restaurants in the area to extend the cultural offering in our city and make it more accessible. Fellowship is important, even if we are competitors,” says Kolvik.

A familiar menu The restaurant is located downstairs, a place with a rustic, industrial interior style and visible details form the past.

Here, the chefs explore local, seasonal produce and let the ingredients play the leading role in a menu that changes constantly along with access to pro-

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

duce. “We have a tasting menu, which is also served as a four-course meal with possible snacks. Our menu is predominantly based on our region and typical Nordic cuisine – flavours familiar to and recognisable for the guests. But we do have international influences and put our spin on it to challenge people,” says Kolvik, tempting visitors with their own version of smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, a lot of dried and salted cod, as well as ‘svele’ for dessert, a traditional Norwegian flat cake similar to a pancake.

Relaxed atmosphere in the bar and bistro Upstairs at the Bro bar and bistro, you will find comfortable sofas and a relaxed atmosphere with natural and wood elements throughout the space – the perfect place to work, to participate in big or small events throughout the day, or to simply wind down after a busy day with a drink or a bite to eat. In the evenings, you can enjoy a casual dinner along with drinks from an exciting cocktail menu, a good glass of juice, or the generous wine list, which was just voted the people’s favourite in the selection of Norway’s best wine lists by the financial newspaper Kapital.

“This space is meant to be a place you can sit and work alone or in groups, and stay as long as you like. After five, the place is transformed into a cocktail bar with exciting cocktails from our talented bartenders, so you can literally sit here from morning to evening,” Kolvik ex-

plains. The menu is straightforward yet pleasing, with a small breakfast buffet and a lunch selection with everything from a brioche burger with Nordic coleslaw and mayonnaise to Bro’s own popular fish soup and the catch of the day.

Book meeting rooms for free Bro is equipped with two meeting rooms.

The room upstairs is suitable for two to 12 people, and the larger room downstairs can house 30 to 40 guests with a table or cinema set-up. With the possibility to book one of these two rooms during the day for free, Kolvik believes it is a great opportunity for businesses to get away from their daily routines for a meeting, course or conference. “The only thing we ask is that if you are using a meeting room, you order food and drinks. But it is a great excuse to have lunch and get fresh ideas in a new environment at the same time,” he says. The rooms can also be booked for events in the evening.

“Outside, we have our own magical patio – it’s like a green oasis in the middle of Brosundet,” says Kolvik. Come rain or shine, you can enjoy life here, with good drinks, lunch and snacks on the menu.

New for this season will be a shellfish crate, which can be eaten in this lively and cosy outdoor space. “Our shellfish is caught from the sea right outside our windows, so it’s difficult to find fresher and better seafood,” Kolvik asserts.

It is safe to say that Bro has become a big hit with locals and tourists alike. “We want to be an asset to the city, something we feel we are in many areas. It feels great to help put Ålesund on the map,” Kolvik smiles.

Web: www.brobro.no Facebook: broalesund Instagram: @broalesund

Head chef Ronny Kolvik.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 107

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

The hotel of the future The hotel concept has barely evolved since the 19th century, but Hobo has set out to change all that. In addition to smart design and sustainability, this Stockholm-based hotel is founded on the philosophy of providing not only a great place to stay, but a meeting point for people and ideas.

By Liz Longden | Photos: Sofia Castensson

‘Like a hotel room’ has probably not traditionally been a look or feel that many people would aspire to. But then Hobo is not a traditional hotel. It stands out from the crowd with individually designed rooms, which combine a relaxed, contemporary feel with smart technology and clever functionality. And where others might go for formal, Hobo opts for a touch of fun — along with umbrellas, city maps and tote bags, guests are also provided with a pocket synthesiser to 108 | Issue 125 | June 2019

borrow for the duration of their stay. This is a hotel that takes the cliché of hotels as impersonal and generic and throws it gleefully out of the window.

Aesthetics are not the only thing that Hobo aims to challenge, however.

Arguably more important is its ambition to redefine what a hotel should be.

“Our inspiration basically comes from our belief that people today don’t simply want to be spectators, but want to be a

part of where they live, whether that be a town or a hotel,” says managing director Mattias Stengl. Their intention, he says, is to create not just a hotel, but a community. “We work with other start-ups and creative individuals to make Hobo a place where people meet, both locals and guests, and that’s a responsibility that stretches far beyond just the hotel room.

This is a place where people can listen to a talk, dance, share ideas in a workshop, eat, drink or sleep.”

Diversity and exchange An example of this philosophy in practice is SPACEby. An area measuring nine cubic metres, situated in prime position next to the hotel reception, it is loaned out to start-ups, artists or designers to

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden

enable them to present their products.

The space changes ‘owner’ every two months, ensuring a constant inflow of ideas. “It’s been a fantastic project, which means that things are happening all the time at Hobo, helping to keep our community alive,” Stengl says. 5EMMAN is another space that can host just about any kind of event, from lectures and book readings to club nights, while the hotel also works in partnership with small retailers, including a store by fashion retail company Grandpa.

The culture of exchange continues outside of the hotel lobby. Hobo sits in Brunkebergstorg, part of the Urban Escape neighbourhood in central Stockholm, which is fast becoming one of the city’s most interesting areas. With its rooftop gardens, over 20 restaurants, and a vibrant mix of shops and businesses, it’s a place that captures the cosmopolitan buzz of the capital. And diversity is also something that characterises Hobo’s guests, whom Stengl says come from different backgrounds but tend to have a shared philosophy. “We have a broad target audience in terms of age, but what most of our guests have in common is an appreciation of our strong connection to the local area,” he says. “They are also often naturally curious people, who don’t especially like traditional hotel environments, but instead want something more creative, contemporary and sustainable.”

Smart solutions Sustainability is, in fact, another pillar of Hobo’s philosophy, and the hotel has measures in place across the board to reduce consumption and waste. One example is the policy of only cleaning rooms when requested. “We feel that that’s something for the individual to decide, not us, and actually it’s something that has been really appreciated by our guests,” Stengl notes. It has also saved more than 100,000 litres of water a year.

Reducing food waste is another aim. By copying the café model of pay-per-item portions instead of the traditional hotel buffet, Hobo has reduced food waste to just 60 grams per guest. The bar even serves a cocktail – Cereal Killer – made from leftover cereal from breakfast.

Hydroponically foyer-grown greens,

bike hire and even a collection box in each room for recycling laddered tights are further examples of how Hobo is thinking outside the box and challenging norms.

With its blend of innovation, cool design and forward-thinking, it isn’t surprising that Hobo has been attracting a fair amount of attention since it opened in March 2017, and in April this year, Travelmag included Hobo, which it described as “quirky and beautifully designed”, in its list of Stockholm’s topfive boutique hotels. So if you’re in central Stockholm and looking for a spot to not only rest, but connect, inspire and be inspired, you know where to go.

Web: www.hobo.se

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 109

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Norway

A stunning wedding venue in the majestic Meyersal.

Photo: Anette Haga

Welcome to Losby Gods Manor, a historical hotel right outside Oslo city centre. Photo: Roger Næss

The Losby kitchen is influenced by traditions, nature, Norwegian food and local produce.

Photo: Nina Børnich

Hotel of the Month, Norway

The pearl in the woods As one of only 60 ‘Historic Hotels’ in Norway, Losby Gods Manor invites its guests to wander 170 years back in time. Nestled in the idyllic woods of Lørenskog, it is a gem of a place, with more than a decade and a half of glamour and gossip hidden in its walls.

that restoring it into its former glory was like opening the lid of a treasure chest,” Fjellheim says.

By Lisa Maria Berg

Losby Gods Manor welcomes a wide range of guests. It is the definition of romantic, and many couples have said their vows here. The manor’s beautiful surroundings also make it an excellent venue for a conference in a serene setting.

For 20 years, businesses have sought out this pearl of a place to find the perfect work/rest balance.

It was the Meyer family that, in 1850, decided that they needed a hunting cabin in the woods for all sorts of fun and recreation. As they were one of the richest families in Norway at the time, having made a fortune running sawmills, their cabin eventually turned into something of a castle. Built in the stunning woods outside the Norwegian capital, it was one of the first Swiss-style villas in the country. A real sight for sore eyes, it brought both glamour and the societal elite into the woods of Lørenskog for the first time, reachable today in just 15 minutes from Oslo.

A stay to remember “It is a wonderful feeling when your guests arrive and they can’t help but stop 110 | Issue 125 | June 2019

and stare,” says managing director Heidi Fjellheim, who has greeted many a guest on the Losby stairs and loves that her workplace looks like it has been ripped out of a fairy-tale. “We want every person who works here to know that they’re not only working in a historic place, but making history by being here. A passionate team in a house built on passion is what makes for a very special stay here,” Fjellheim explains.

After undergoing a complete renovation in 1999, Losby Gods Manor just celebrated its 20th year as a hotel. “Before we opened, basically every person with a connection to Lørenskog knew about Losby. So many tales and stories had been told and retold about this place,

With passion

Fjellheim knows precisely what’s become the favourite spot for her guests, however: “Exactly a year ago, we opened a brand-new lounge area à la 1850, Compagniet, with a secret door built into the bookshelves. It has become a real treat for our guests. It is a new chapter in the Losby history,” Fjellheim says proudly.

Web: www.losbygods.no

Scan Magazine | Accommodation of the Month | Finland Harjun Portti offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Photo: Harjun Portti

Light, sound and fury. Photo: Jussi Silvennoinen

Dining before the show.

Photo: Jussi Silvennoinen

Put your feet up in a cosy cottage.

Photo: Harjun Portti

Punkaharju, one of the most beautiful spots in Finland. Photo: Jussi Silvennoinen

Accommodation of the Month, Finland

Luola Cave Complex — cultural events in magical settings The Holiday Resort Harjun Portti in Punkaharju sits in the middle of Finland’s famous 1,000 lakes, the kind of scenery you see on postcards. Known as a dream destination for outdoor adventures and nature lovers, the holiday resort is now also offering cultural highlights in exciting surroundings — below ground. Welcome to the Luola Cave Complex.

customers in every way. What else could you want for a holiday or weekend escape?

By Anne Koski-Wood

This man-made cave complex, formerly known as the Retretti Art Centre, is now an arena for pop and rock concerts, stand-up comedy and dining. The cave can hold 1,000 people, so you can imagine the atmosphere during a concert when a rock band plays to an enthusiastic audience in the rocky environment.

Luola Events, the operator behind the Cave Complex, offers different events all year round, and managing director Markus Kaskinen wants to widen the repertoire to include theatre and opera.

Undoubtedly, the Cave Complex will give a dramatic edge to any cultural or musical event.

Rest and relax in a cottage by a lake The Harjun Portti Holiday Resort is situated only a stone’s throw away from

the Cave Complex, making it a perfect place to stay after a cultural experience.

The cottages are sitting by the lake and come with a sauna, WiFi, air conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen. The restaurant offers a buffet as well as à la carte menus. All the fish, bread and vegetables on the menu are locally sourced.

The best variety of summer and winter activities Summer is a season for playing golf, swimming, enjoying a sauna, hiking and cycling, whereas winter is for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating along the frozen lake. The 15-kilometre tour skating network is one of the longest in Finland, and along the way you can pop into a café for pancakes. Harjun Portti looks after its

Sleep well by a lake. Photo: Harjun Portti

You can get to Harjun Portti Resort easily from Helsinki Airport by train.

The train stop of Punkaharju Retretti is located only 100 metres from the reception. Arriving by car, the resort is just next to highway 14.

Web: www.harjunportti.fi Facebook: Harjun Portin matkailukeskus Instagram: @Harjunportti For more information about the concerts and events in the Luola Cave Complex, see www.luolaevents.fi

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 111

Inn of the Month, Denmark

A historic pearl north of Copenhagen Asminderød Kro near Fredensborg forms the ideal backdrop for everything from a golden wedding anniversary to a cosy mini break.

By Jane Graham | Photos: Rasmus Danielsen

Those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities will find plenty of charm at this newly modernised, historic coaching inn, which dates back to 1679.

In the heart of North Zealand, it’s an ideal spot for a mini break. Enjoy a package with half or full board, or bring friends and family – the inn has reception rooms to suit all party sizes.

A retreat in beautiful surroundings Not far from the Danish Royal Family’s summer residence, Fredensborg Slot, 112 | Issue 125 | June 2019

and just a short drive from other attractions, including Frederiksborg Palace in Hillerød, the beautiful North Zealand coastline – dubbed ‘the Danish Riviera’ for its sandy beaches – and the beautiful lake Esrum Sø, Asminderød Kro has an idyllic, rural location – as well as being within walking distance from Fredensborg train station with connections to Copenhagen and elsewhere.

“We’re a cosy little hotel that provides a retreat from everyday stress, whether you

visit alone, as a couple or with a group of 100 people,” says Niklas B. Nielsen, who owns Asminderød Kro together with his wife, Carina. In addition to the numerous receptions, anniversaries and parties that are held here over the year, they can offer a more intimate all-inclusive hotel package with an evening meal, including coffee and cake, and a hearty breakfast.

Should you not feel like an excursion to the many attractions in the region, Asminderød Kro has plenty of facilities on-site, including a large, beautiful garden – the flowers are particularly attractive at this time of year, Niklas notes – with three terraces, one with a bar and lounge furniture. There is also a fully

Scan Magazine | Inn of the Month | Denmark

stocked hotel bar that offers billiards and other pub games.

Renovated with respect for the inn’s history Somewhat surprisingly, in light of its current success, Asminderød Kro’s future was looking less bright six years ago, when the closed-down inn was put up for sale as a ‘fixer upper’. “It was worn down and in a poor state generally,” recalls Niklas, who estimates that it must have been about 30 to 40 years since it had last been modernised.

Niklas, who is also a full-time contractor, took to the task with gusto. “I took a contractor’s approach to the task and repaired what needed fixing,” he says, adding that the inn underwent “a complete renovation, from the bedrooms to the meeting and dining rooms. We put in all modern appliances, solid oak wooden floors, soundproofed windows – all with respect for the house’s history”.

The renovations have been welcomed by guests, old as well as new, who have rated both hotel and restaurant with top scores on various websites. “Many of our regulars have been visiting over generations,” explains Niklas. “They are really pleased with the changes we’ve made – at a time when so many of Denmark’s old inns are closing and being made into private apartments, they

Carina and Niklas B. Nielsen.

are very happy to see that it has been preserved and reopened.”

Dine in style The hotel’s restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday and offers traditional Danish fare such as the national dish, ‘stegt flæsk med persillesauce’ (slices of crispy pork with boiled potatoes and parsley sauce) as well as international, American and French dishes, so there is something to suit all tastes. “We always have a steak on the menu, as well as a wiener schnitzel. We offer an ambitious menu and use quality, seasonal ingredients,” Niklas points out.

The inn is also branching out into events, which are held in its large banquet hall

with a capacity of around 250. There is an Oktoberfest event coming up in the autumn and a concert in the winter, for example.

Asminderød Kro is very flexible and can accommodate most needs. With the banquet hall able to host parties of up to 250 guests, it is ideal for wedding receptions or large birthday gatherings, but there are also private rooms available for as few as ten guests, perfect for the more intimate, cosy gathering. “We really do have rooms to suit any request,” says Niklas.

Web: www.asminderoedkro.dk

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Spa Resort Peurunka is situated at the beautiful Lake Peurunka.

Wellness Profile of the Month, Finland

Take a break to unwind and recharge Spa Resort Peurunka celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. With a long tradition in the wellness business, the resort makes sure that the guests get a chance to recharge their batteries by taking care of their body and mind.

By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Spa Resort Peurunka

Spa Resort Peurunka boasts a modern spa, many restaurants and plenty of activities and entertainment that fulfil guests’ every need. “Our roots lie deep in the wellbeing of people, and today the wellness concept has a holistic approach, taking care of both body and mind,” says marketing director Tiina Björk.

Peurunka is located in central Finland, close to Jyväskylä, and it is one of the largest resorts in the area. The environment itself provides a relaxing and nurturing aspect, as the pure Finnish na114 | Issue 125 | June 2019

ture is at its best here. There are many different accommodation options: there are comfortable hotel rooms and wellequipped apartments, spacious holiday cottages and also budget accommodation – all located conveniently within the compact resort area.

Peurunka has the most modern spa in Finland, opened in 2012. There are both relaxing spa experience pools and pools with water park features, including the longest waterslide in northern Europe, measuring 130 metres – so the whole family can enjoy and relax together.

There are also many different types of saunas; in addition to the Finnish sauna, there are infra-red saunas and a steam bath in the spa. Outdoors, there is a traditional Finnish sauna and a smoke sauna, both with access to the Lake Peurunka for a refreshing dip. The Day Spa offers sumptuous beauty treatments and relaxing massage therapy.

Action for everyone Guests have many options with which to boost their wellbeing, and they can try lots of different sports. The resort offers basketball, volleyball and badminton courts as well as a bowling alley. There is also an ice rink for skating, ice hockey and curling. Moreover, there is a fully equipped gym with many weekly group classes. It also offers professional fitness testing services.

Scan Magazine | Wellness Profile of the Month | Finland

Outdoor activities include, among others, marked hiking and cycling paths and orienteering routes. The spa and the beautiful Lake Peurunka offer a range of water activities such as swimming and paddle boarding, as well as canoes and rowing boats. There is also a full golf course and a disc golf course in the area.

The resort is open all year round and, in the winter, guests can try crosscountry skiing, sledging, snowshoeing and even ice swimming – a refreshing feeling guaranteed! The surroundings look so different at various times of the year, so it is definitely worth it to pay a visit in every season.

When guests want to try something new, there are guides and instructors who organise guided lessons. Children can participate in most activities with the family, and there is also special action just for kids, including swimming lessons and children’s group exercise classes. “Families find so much to do

here – there are activities for the whole day, every day,” Björk enhuses.

As Peurunka has its roots in wellness and rehabilitation, there is also the Rehabilitation Centre Peurunka, where the methods used are based on decades of experience, established scientific research in the field as well as its own, active research programmes.

Entertaining evenings After all the daily activities, it is time to relax and nourish the body. There are several restaurants at Peurunka, including Peurankello À La Carte Grill, which serves fantastic flavours made from local, high-quality ingredients and has been awarded by Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. There are also other restaurants that serve, for example, big breakfasts and delicious lunch buffets, and a pub offering drinks and karaoke.

friends and family and enjoy the evening entertainment,” explains Björk. “There is also the opportunity to dance to live music every weekend. We believe that good entertainment provides a way to relax, and that’s a part of the package at Peurunka.”

There are also big events at Peurunka, like John Smith Rock Festival, voted Best Rock Festival in Finland in 2018, and Sauna Heating World Championships as part of the regional event Sauna Week. Both events are held in July. Other concerts and events are held at Peurunka Areena all year round. “Our corporate clients like to bring their staff or customers here for meetings, and often include some wellness activities in the day too. We can also arrange fairs and summits at our spacious event centre, Areena,” says Björk.

“We think relaxing and socialising are as important as training, so there are many opportunities to unwind with

Web: www.peurunka.fi Facebook: kylpylahotellipeurunka Instagram: @peurunka

There is a variety of different activities available at Spa Resort Peurunka.

The resort is open all year round and offers plenty of activities also in winter.

There are many high-quality restaurants at the resort to suit all occasions.

The spa offers lots of fun activities for the whole family.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 115

Rental boat fleet.

Attraction of the Month, Norway

Deep-sea fishing in Norway The Norwegian coastline is a gold mine of experiences and adventures, both on land and at sea. Whether you’re into water or land-based activities, there’s a multitude of ways to experience the wild and wonderful nature of this Nordic country. For anyone interested in deep-sea fishing or angling, Frøya Havfiskecamp is the place to visit.

By Alyssa Nilsen | Photos: Håkon Vikaskag

Situated in the Frøyahavet archipelago by the gulf stream, the island of Frøya enjoys relatively mild temperatures all year round, despite being located not too far from the Arctic Circle. The Gulf Stream also allows for a rich and varied ocean life, and with the opportunity to catch over 30 different species of fish, Frøya is 116 | Issue 125 | June 2019

one of the most attractive fishing spots in Norway. From small mackerel to giant 150-kilogramme halibut, there’s something for everyone, no matter how experienced a fisher you are.

One of the places accommodating visitors who wish to experience all this

is Frøya Havfiskecamp, located at Svellingen, at the very north of the island.

With boats and cabins for hire, they can accommodate large and small groups of visitors for any number of days, whether you’re a family wanting a holiday to remember, a business looking for a slightly different experience, or a group of friends wanting an exciting getaway.

A growing industry “It’s a great way to meet new people,” says owner and CEO Håkon Vikaskag about the family-run company. As the main contributor, he is the one who welcomes

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

guests, keeps the cabins and boats in tiptop shape, and helps out wherever help is needed. Fuel for the boats as well as fishing equipment is provided by the company, and Vikaskag is also happy to help out with weather and sea-condition advice for those who feel unsure about where to look and what to look at.

“The scale of tourism has grown exponentially over the last ten years,” Vikaskag says. “We’re seeing an ongoing increase in tourists who come to experience the Norwegian nature and fishing, year by year.” Frøya Havfiskecamp has a very international clientele, with visitors from countries like Germany, Sweden, Japan and the UK, and they have an ongoing collaboration with a Czech company, arranging bus rides from the Eastern European country all the way to Frøya.

And should the guests want to experience something other than just fishing during their stay, the hiking opportunities in the area are equally excellent thanks to the coastal nature with its beautiful and wild sceneries. Sea eagles are a common sight in the area, and while at sea, porpoises, orca whales and other species of whale often swim past the boats.

Rental cabins. 12 cabins of various sizes are available to rent.

Everything you need for a comfortable stay Having initially started out as a hobby, helping visitors who were travelling through the area looking for rental opportunities, Frøya Havfiskecamp has grown into a full-blown business. What started out as a one-cabin company has flourished into a camp with 12 cabins of different sizes and capacity, and a whopping 30 rental boats. The bigger cabins have five bedrooms and two bathrooms

Cooked seafood. At Frøya Havfiskecamp you can catch and cook your own delicacies.

and can fit up to 13 guests, perfect for larger groups of people wanting to visit the Norwegian island. All cabins have fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms, allowing for a relaxing stay when you’re not on board one of the boats. A service dock with freezing and cold-storage capacity is located near the cabins for those who need to store the fish they’ve caught throughout their stay.

With a season lasting from March through to October, new and returning guests can enjoy top-notch accommodation and fully stocked boats meeting the wishes, needs and requirements of the visitors. The weather is generally good in the summer, with rainy and stormy spells only lasting a couple of days at most, meaning you should be able to enjoy calm waters most of the time. But even in the winter, off-peak season, people are welcome to visit Frøya Havfiskecamp. While the weather might be colder and more unstable, the fishing is still very good in the winter.

The Frøya island is easy to reach by car, thanks to the tunnels connecting it to the mainland, and is only a couple of hours’ drive away from Trondheim with its proximity to the Værnes International Airport.

Fisher Karl Kurz proudly displaying his 74kilogramme halibut. Photo: Håkon Vikaskag, with permission from Karl Kurz

Halibut. With more than 30 different species of fish in the waters, every trip can bring new experiences and surprises.

Web: www.storfisk.no

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 117

Scan Magazine | Summer Experience of the Month | Denmark

Gitte Loftlund.

Summer Experience of the Month, Denmark

The isles have it The archipelago south of Funen makes for one of Denmark’s most iconic areas of natural beauty. The gleaming, glittering sea gives way to little islands filled with green pastures and yellow cereal fields. To Gitte Loftlund and her family, the fresh sea breeze proved irresistible. “We’re here because of the area’s complete idyll – the birds; the old village pond; the ribbiting of over-excited frogs serenading each other in spring. Nothing beats it.”

house-cum-restaurant-cum-cocktail bar. “We like to call our menu a Nordic beach safari,” Gitte explains. “We have experience with hosting everything from weddings to businesses, so I think it’s fair to say we’re open to everyone.”

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Café Sommersild

While the Loftlunds also manage the nearby well-equipped campsite, summer huts and bike and canoe rental, two of Gitte’s neighbours are in charge of showing interested visitors the rest of Skarø. Groups are picked up in Svendborg and end up at Café Sommersild before Lene the nature guide takes them on a foodie tour of the beaches and her apothecary gardens, complete with a spirit brewed from local beach herbs, after which the lovely local history buff Preben tells the stories of past and present people of Skarø.

For most, the day finishes off where it started, with the sampling of one of Café Sommersild’s Skaroese delicacies.

The Loftlunds moved to the island of Skarø back in 2000, swapping out their stuffy Odense apartment for a piece of the Danish coast. With a circumference of eight kilometres and a population of just 27, Skarø is one of the smallest inhabited islands in Denmark. It is, however, a highly popular summer spot for island hopping, not least due to Gitte and her neighbours’ endeavours to welcome visitors to their little piece of paradise.

“Something extraordinary happens once the ferry leaves and Skarø really turns up its charm,” Gitte says. “It’s a very special, relaxing feeling to be ‘stuck’ out here with nowhere else to be. And don’t worry, we take really good care 118 | Issue 125 | June 2019

of you.” Just 35 minutes by ferry from Svendborg and included in the weeklong island-hopping tickets, the island is easily reachable from the mainland yet remains its own little world of sandy beaches, great local food and, well, Viking sheep.

Soon after moving, Gitte and her husband decided to add to Skarø’s population with the acquisition of 50 hardy wild sheep, left genetically unmodified since Viking times. Unaware of their fearful breed, the sheep and lambs roam the island quite peacefully all year round and make for the delicious, organic and barbequed star dishes at Gitte’s Café Sommersild, Skarø’s popular smoke-

Web: www.sommersild.dk

The Great Relief, 1893-1928.

Museum of the Month, Denmark

An artist in his own image The Danish artist Jens Ferdinand Willumsen lived a long and prolific life. His career spanned more than 70 years, and he himself made it to the age of 94, having seen the world through from the 1860s to 1958. He tirelessly documented its people and the great themes of life that define humanity: painting, sculpting and photographing the world in his unique, colourful way. And yet, it would appear, he never quite felt at home in it. “People think I’ve painted to cause strife,” he said towards the end. “On the contrary, I’ve always sought to be understood.”

By Louise Older Steffensen

Despite his fame, it took the aging J. F. Willumsen a decade to convince the Danish authorities to turn the donation of his art into a museum in his honour.

When it finally happened, he was unhappy with its location in his father’s Frederikssund, roughly 40 minutes from the capital: he’d wanted a grandiose 120 | Issue 125 | June 2019

museum in the heart of Copenhagen.

Nowadays, the J. F. Willumsen Museum is a mecca for Danish and international artists and J. F. Willumsen has finally received the recognition he sought as one of Denmark’s most influential artists of the 20th century. The long, evolving and sometimes contradictory jour-

ney of Willumsen’s art and person is on full display at the modern museum he was granted.

Circular progression “Willumsen is quite difficult to pin down,” says museum curator Anne Gregersen. “He was certainly an individualist; he had a unique way of approaching art, and he carefully stage-managed his own image as an artist.” He criticised and distanced himself from his contemporaries, but he also wanted broad recognition. He sought collaboration early on when he denounced the Royal Academy and became the architect behind Copenhagen’s Den Frie Udstilling, the first artists’ association in Denmark, but he

Scan Magazine | Museum of the Month | Denmark

only wanted to be displayed in solo exhibitions. He spent most of his life abroad, in France and Italy, and was sometimes deemed a ‘foreign painter’, but he was predominantly concerned with being recognised as a great artist in Denmark.

“Later in his own lifetime, Willumsen did receive praise for his early work, the symbolist art from the 1890s. The older he got, however, the more he separated himself from the artistic currents of the time, and again, it took people years and years to gain appreciation for his later art,” Gregersen explains. “We often tell the story of a period’s collective art movement moving upwards and onwards from one thing to another – from the figurative to the abstract in the 20th century – but Willumsen is a prime example that the truth is much more complex than that.”

Understanding the misunderstood While his work is often divided into neat ten-year periods of linear stylistic progression, there are certain themes, styles and motifs he revisits again and again, such as his explosive, French choice of colours, his photographic elements, and life’s big questions coupled with the everyday. Despite his quest to bring in new interpretations of art, Willumsen had an extensive knowledge of art history, and his art features careful

throwbacks to earlier works and earlier times as well as playful experimentation with opposing artistic movements and serious engagement with older styles.

Renaissance artist. He continued to explore the somewhat self-indulgent subjects of mortality, vitality and legacy, until his death.

“Willumsen certainly saw himself as a great artist standing on the shoulders of the giants who’d gone before him,” Gregersen notes. “There’s a curious mix of self-aggrandisement and self-aware irony in his work. His art is large and explosive, very demanding. A lot of his later work almost seems to border on caricature, but there’s always a serious edge behind it.” The artist spent much of the 1920s overseeing the sculpting of The Great Relief, a four-by-fourmetre exploration of the dichotomies of life and love. In his 70s, he created a trilogy of self-portraits titled Titian Dying, envisioning himself as the great

“I think he learnt from experience early on that there would be a delay in the acceptance of his art: he’d cause scandal in the established art world, and then the next generation of artists would see him as an idol of modernity. He made a conscious decision to bide his time and play into the role of misunderstood artist, and look where it got him – eventually. He’s become his own unique chapter in Danish art history,” Gregersen concludes. “One of the ways he is often described today is ‘ahead of his time’. He doesn’t seem like a historical figure; he continues to demand that we engage with him as spectators and as artists today.”

Web: www.jfwillumsensmuseum.dk Facebook: Willumsensmuseum Instagram: @jfwillumsensmuseum

Top Right: In 1949, Willumsen painted over part of his 1888 The Prince’s Wedding, leaving the paupers on the right in the original social realist style while rebranding the left’s lordly subjects in a clashing bright, caricaturised, almost national romantic light. The painting has only recently gained recognition. Bottom Left: The San Trovaso Canal in Venice, 1930. Bottom Middle: Woman Playing with a Black Cat, 1945. Bottom Right: Self-Portrait in a Painter’s Shirt, 1933.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 121

It all starts with one.

Artist of the Month, Norway

Layered expressions — pushing the boundaries of ceramic arts Basing her artistic craft in the ancient tradition of ceramic mends, Sidsel Hanum has become a household name among Norwegian ceramists. With a multifaceted skillset she has forged a distinct and exploratory path for herself, inspired by old and current events, elements of nature as well as their universally applicable patterns.

ments of nature; I think that shows in my art.”

By Julie Linden | Photos: Dannevig Foto AS

A career artist since graduating from the Academy of the Arts in Oslo in the beginning of the ‘80s, Hanum is aware that she is more than averagely interested in art – and it shows in her enthusiastic way of speaking about her craft. “I have always been an artist, always working with clay, pottery and porcelain… it’s what I need to do, the craft speaks to me,” she muses.

122 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Together with her husband, Arve Rønning, an artist in the realm of sculptures, she works out of her studio on Borøy island outside Tvedestrand in southern Norway – a beautiful place that comes with a natural proximity to nature and its oeuvres. “It’s a gorgeous place – I love it here. I love having my studio so close to the water, I feel perfectly in tune with the different ele-

Sidsel Hanum.

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Norway

Wandering and wondering While Hanum also creates wheelthrown pottery, her notability has emerged from the distinctive technique of ceramic mending. Utilising this technique in innovative, new ways, including a particular kind of string layering, she found herself taking her art in a brand new direction.

“Earlier exhibitions and grants have allowed me to dive deep into this form of art making, giving me the opportunity to develop this technique in a new way – and for new purposes. I enjoy going on journeys within the craft, allowing myself to wander off, finding new solutions along the way. I think it’s through this process of discovery that new, wonderful kinds of art are created.”

Constructions of surprise She explains that she works long hours, often letting the art emerge as it sees fit. Using strong colours and agents, she is particularly motivated by the diversity and surprise element of her work. “You can’t force anything, and you never really know what you’ll end up with. Copper tones – when oxygen is extracted – will turn red… and layered colouring will make for a surprising element no matter what,” she laughs.

While approaching the fluidity and flexibility of ceramics with a keen curiosity, Hanum has made careful construction and layering her signature expression.

“There is a slow and meticulous process to this technique, grounded in the element of construction. I build things, in many ways.

This is where my surroundings come into play yet again, as I view everything around me as a construct of some sort.”

An American hurricane, an Iraqi garden She explains that stories from around the world, particularly Asia and America, inspire her greatly. A keen radio listener, she recalls working in her studio while news broke of the onset of Hurricane Irma in 2017. “It was an instantaneous, spontaneous reaction,” she says. “I kept taking in stories of the hurricane’s destruction and came up

Air. Inspired by a red coral found outside Gili Air, Indonesia.

The Niniveh Garden. Porcelain, slip trailing in a mould, sprayed with water and then coloured with the metal chlorides cobalt and chrome. Fired to 1,130 centigrades in a reduction oil-firing.

The Bumblebee-Room. Porcelain, slip trailing in a mould, coloured with the metal chlorides iron and titanium as a mix, and copper. Fired to 1,130 centigrades in a reduction oil-firing.

All the Oakleaves. Porcelain, slip trailing in a mould, sprayed with water and then coloured with the metal chlorides titanium and copper. Fired to 1,130 centigrades in a reduction oil-firing.

Irmas Øye (‘Irma’s Eye’).

The Wavecatcher.

with the title Irmas Øye [‘Irma’s Eye’], from which I created a brand new piece.”

Similarly, Humlerommet (‘The Bumblebee-Room’) came to her as a meditation on the threat of endangerment to the bumblebee species, and The Niniveh Garden was inspired by the destruction of the Hanging Gardens in modern-day Iraq. “I like using news stories from near and far in my work, simultaneously reflecting on their importance,” she says, underlining her deep respect and appreciation for cultural complexities and diversity.

Sidsel Hanum is the first ever recipient of Finn Erik Alsos’ Memorial Prize (2018). In 2015, she was awarded Tvedestrand’s Culture Award, and in 2010 she received The Craft Prize from the Relief Fund for Visual Artists and the Culture Award from Aust-Agder County.

Experience Sidsel Hanum’s art in 2019: Hanum will exhibit her works at Kunstnerforbundet gallery in Oslo between 24 October and 24 November 2019.

View Hanum’s art at House of Norway at the Museum Angewandte Kunst, as part of the Frankfurt Book Fair between 10 October 2019 and 26 January 2020.

Visit the art gallery of Hanum and her husband Arve Rønning, Borøy Kunsthandel, outside Tvedestrand between 29 June and 11 August.

The gallery will be open every day between 12pm and 4pm.

For information on upcoming exhibitions and point of contact, please see: Web: hanum.no Facebook: Borøy Kunsthandel Instagram: @sidselhanum

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 123

Artist Maiju Tirri enjoys painting in her home studio in Marbella. Photo: Riikka Kajander

Artist of the Month, Finland

Northern roots combined with strong emotions Maiju Tirri is an internationally acknowledged Finnish artist. Tirri’s abstract art bursts with emotion and has found its way to the hearts of many art lovers all over Europe. Tirri finds her inspiration from nature and life, and is passionate to pass on harmony and goodness through her art.

By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Courtesy of the artist

Maiju Tirri’s talent and many techniques have been seen in solo and group exhibitions in Finland and all over Europe.

Her contemporary art pieces are held in private collections in Europe, the Middle East and the US. Besides painting, she does graphic art, giclée reproductions, portraits and glass art.

124 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Today, Tirri lives in Marbella, Spain, but her roots are in Finland. “My mother was an artist too,” explains Tirri. “She always took me with her to art exhibitions – I must have seen more art by the age of five than some people ever will. I think this helped me to look at the world from another perspective.”

Tirri often uses nature-like colours in her work. “My colour schemes come from experiencing life as it is. I feel that the calm and relaxing colours are in my DNA and in my roots in the Finnish nature. There, the colours vary so much from one season to the next – for example, when it changes from the intensive colours of autumn to snowy and frosty winter scenery with ice-covered lakes and pale skies,” she continues. “But Spain has its fabulous colourful flowers and the Mediterranean Sea, which have influenced my work too. I love everything about the sea: the waves, the secrets

Scan Magazine | Artist of the Month | Finland The glass pieces are at their best when the light shines through them, making the glass shimmer beautifully.

Tirri’s colourful paintings bring energy and power to the Scandinavian interior decor.

Photo: Riikka Kajander

Current exhibitions: Tirri’s latest achievement is the opening of a gallery under her name, Maiju Tirri Contemporary Art Gallery, in Magna Cafe, Marbella, Spain.

Tirri also has an exhibition at Galleria Bronda, Helsinki, until 28 June 2019.

The exhibition is called Inspired by life and shows her vibrant, colourful paintings. “I feel that it is like a diary of my life,” she says of the exhibition.

Web: www.maijutirri.com Facebook: maijutirriart Instagram: @maijutirriart Email: maiju.tirri@icloud.com

beneath the surface, its turquoise colour and the soft sand.”

Touching others through art In her art, Tirri aims for depth and also to convey harmony and goodness through her work. “My essential mission is to provide a powerful, positive experience through my art; it is not just a painting, but an experience. I feel that the piece is a good one when it touches not just me, but also the spectator.”

In addition to nature, her inspiration comes from strong feelings – how she has experienced the moment. “Even if it’s abstract art, there is still a story and an intention behind it. And then again, an artist can aim for something specific, but that

is not necessarily what the spectator finds in it – the piece of art gets its final form in the spectator’s mind,” Tirri ponders. “A painting continues to live its own life and matures over time. There are new aspects to it when you see it again and again.”

Tirri finds feedback from people to be a source of energy that keeps her going.

“One of my favourite quotes is ‘art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time’, coined by Thomas Merton,” she says. “I believe art does not have to provide answers; it’s supposed to raise questions.”

Art in many forms Tirri’s original paintings have a characteristic texture and structure that makes

them three-dimensional. This, combined with her use of vivid colours, gives her art a rough but sensual look. During her career, Tirri has used other techniques, too.

“I am passionate about creating something new and different. It makes me feel alive,” she says.

“At the moment, I am very inspired by recycled glass – its transparent, ice-like texture and how light goes through it,” she continues. Another technique is in her pop portraits, where she combines a photo with painting. “I was inspired by Andy Warhol’s portraits and have created my own portraits series with a personal twist.

I am inspired by people, and I want to visualise the model’s persona and deepest essence.”

Left: The painting has been influenced by Tirri’s travels in Africa. Middle: The delicate piece celebrates femininity.

Right: Tirri’s turquoise paintings have been inspired by the sea.

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 125

Scan Magazine | Humour | Columns

IS IT JUST ME…

By Mette Lisby

Who secretly felt relief when I last woke up to a rainy day?

Something was lifted off my shoulders, and I’m beginning to realise what it is: my heavy Scandinavian heritage.

You see, being Scandinavian, sunshine is an obligation to me. I have to enjoy it. I am compelled to make the most of it, pour on endless amounts of sunscreen and soak up every single ray of it. I just have to! It’s the sun, and every Scandinavian greets it like a special VIP guest. It doesn’t matter that I’ve lived in California for ten years and have gotten used to it.

I gasp when my fellow Californians sit inside for lunch on a sunny day. When they ‘seek shade’, my Viking genes quietly frown on them, these heathens, not appreciating heat and natural light – doing whatever they like, willy-nilly, when the sun is visible in the sky and not dancing on the edge of the horizon about to disappear for 18 hours. Oh, you spoiled philistines have never felt the pain of a four-hour daylight zone; that quiet desperation that creeps into your bones in Oc-

tober when you know that it will be months before you have a full day of light again.

See, that was how I used to feel, but something has shifted. I have recently found myself committing unthinkable acts – driving around on a sunny day in my cabriolet without taking the top off, dining inside in restaurants that have patio decks.

It stings, and I can’t shake a deep feeling of shame and regret as I shake my head in disbelief over who I have become: I am officially sunned out! And now the feeling of relief when it rains?

This doesn’t usually happen to Scandinavians. You’ll know if you have been to Spain, where all the blonde people sit, insistently, on the beach, refusing to hide under a sunbrella, their leather faces turned towards the sun – these are real Scandinavians, looking 180 years old but probably just in their early 60s.

I wonder what’s next in my deScandinaviasation? Will I denounce ABBA?

Wrapping paper It was my birthday recently, and today I picked up a gift-wrapped parcel from the post office, sent by friends in Sweden. When I say gift-wrapped, I mean just that. The parcel had been sent – not inside a jiffy bag, or a cardboard box, but as the present it was, an address label stuck to its front.

The man behind the counter glanced at the wrapping paper. “Is this some kind of Christmas thing?...” he asked, referring to the elaborate pattern of blue and gold, decorated with Dala horses and couples in full Swedish folk dress, dancing around flags.

“It’s a Swedish thing,” I explained excitedly, while my heart pounded at the sight. Traditional Swedish gift-wrap always has this effect on me. It makes me instantly revert to the dumpy kid in the frozen north, going nuts at Christmases and birthdays. The suspense was almost the best part, that moment when what was inside was still concealed and the possibilities were endless. It could 126 | Issue 125 | June 2019

Stop eating liquorice? Oh my God! We can only hope it stops here – that for once, when it rains, it doesn’t start to pour.

Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish version of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.

By Maria Smedstad

By the end it covered the entire office floor.

“What did you get?...” my colleagues asked, finding me flustered inside a sea of blue and gold. Somewhere in its midst was the actual gift. I couldn’t remember what it was, or even seeing it, completely entranced by all the lovely paper. I made attempts to gather it and myself back into some sort of order. “It’s a Swedish thing…” I muttered, and nothing more was said about it.

be anything beneath that thin, crisp paper – anything!

But back to the present-day parcel. At work, I couldn’t stop myself from unwrapping the gift. At first, I was very careful, trying to preserve the precious paper. Then, when it became clear there was quite a lot of it, I began tearing at it. And tearing. And tearing.

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.

Photo: Clare Shilland

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Scan Magazine | Culture Profile | Neneh Cherry

Neneh Cherry Still a rebel Ageing pop fans might associate Neneh Cherry with the 1989 super hit Buffalo Stance or perhaps the smooth 7 Seconds from 1994, but her music career started with a protest song, Stop the War, in 1982, and last year she released her fifth solo album, Broken Politics. As the Swedish singer turned 55, Scan Magazine spoke to her about belonging, a world in turbulence, and music as a medicinal journey.

lucky, because I really found like a family there,” she says. “I guess I was pretty well-equipped and had a good feeling for how to create a home. I took care of myself quite well.”

By Linnea Dunne

A few years later, after singing in the postpunk band Rip Rig + Panic, she started being dubbed as the next Madonna. She was signed to Virgin and her successful debut album, Raw Like Sushi, came out to great acclaim, presenting a unique sound blending pop with hip-hop and punk tendencies – a sound occasionally present in her music still today. “I feel like I don’t have to think about fitting into a box now,” she says when asked about that special brand of sprawliness. “Raw Like Sushi and Homebrew were poppier, but I still bring with me parts of all the recordings I’ve done – there’s little bits of everything in there. And it feels nice not to have to squeeze myself into any special place, to just let it be what it is.”

“We were quite different in our family. I think when you came into our house, it was like ‘wow, this is something else’,” says Cherry about her childhood, growing up in a big house in the countryside in southern Sweden – a house the family still holds on to. “I mean it was questioned a lot as a child, where I was from, so in that sense I became a bit of an outsider. But now I’m just grateful for how my mother and stepfather raised us, that we got to grow up the way we did, without so many limitations – I feel rich.”

stepfather Don Cherry also introduced two step-siblings, also musicians. With her new stepfather teaching in the US, the family ended up moving and travelling a lot. “I think my cultural identity has been a bit all over the place,” she says. “I had phases in New York throughout my entire childhood, and that was an important part of my cultural grounding – that I wasn’t so noticeable, because there were all these other people of the same colour.

But I’m not American. When people ask, I say I’m Swedish.”

Born in 1964 as Neneh Mariann Karlsson, the daughter of painter and textile artist Monika ‘Moki’ Karlsson and musician Ahmadu Jah, Cherry has three halfsiblings: the well-known singer Titiyo and producer Cherno Jah from her father’s subsequent marriage, and the commercially successful singer Eagle-Eye Cherry from her mother’s side, where

From post-punk to chart pop After a trip to London and yet another stint in New York, Cherry ended up relocating to London permanently aged 16, where she found her home on the post-punk scene. Living in a squat in Battersea with The Slits singer Ari Up, she found the freedom to write poetry and music. “It just felt right – I was so

You could say that, in many ways, not much has changed. She still lives in a home that’s bursting at the seams with friends and music and community – now in London’s Notting Hill with her partner and collaborator Cameron McVey – Issue 125 | June 2019 | 129

Scan Magazine | Culture Profile | Neneh Cherry

and she still appears to be taking quite good care of herself. She has, however, been through a lot in recent years, with the death of her father, her mother, and her stylist and close friend, Judy Blame.

Music, she says, has been her medicine. “I heal through music. I get to new places within myself and process a lot through my music. Even if I’m singing and using words, there are things that can’t be expressed with words – and while I’ve been through all these weird things you go through as a human being and as a woman, I also feel really free,” she says and pauses. “It’s nice to feel

Photo: Wolfgang Tillmans

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unfinished, like there’s so much left, and the new album was a hugely important part of that journey – to move on, to go through the hard stuff and maybe get to a new, better place.”

An honest riot Facing her 55th birthday, the singer has certainly been on a journey but, yet again, has managed to avoid that box, avoid being labelled as mature or irrelevant. “I’m going through the menopause and have been struggling with all the stereotypical pitfalls women my age have to deal with, and I’ve been quite shocked about the

feelings of redundancy I’ve had with regards to my sensuality and womanhood,” she says plainly. “And at the same time, I’m starting to feel like I’m getting so much back, that I can celebrate that I’m a woman who’s given birth to three children, and life is up and down, and I can still riot a little – I’m still a bit of a rebel.”

Cherry insists that the songs on Broken Politics are not political anthems, yet she acknowledges that her lyrics always reflect what’s happening around her and that she struggles not to think about the current state of world politics.

“My songs are about what it’s like to be a human being, from my point of view. And when you try to work stuff out and try to express things about life, it becomes a platform,” she reflects. Recorded over five days in Woodstock and produced by Four Tet, the album is an eclectic mix of jazzy sounds and trip-hop effects, kalimbas and vibraphone. And if the songs are not political anthems, they certainly play a part in her own small riot in some way, as they cover themes such as gun culture, the refugee crisis and abortion.

On the Poem Daddy interlude, she even lifts lines from Blessed Are Those Who Struggle by The Last Poets: ‘Blessed are those who struggle / Oppression is worse than the grave / Better to die for a noble cause / Than to live and die a slave’.

Her sound is at once immediately recognisable, and simultaneously a universe away from the radio-friendly pop tunes that made her a household name back in the late ‘80s. Broken Politics is either for a more mature audience, or for a more mature world – possibly both. In the right context, the songs are goosebumpinducing in their honesty.

But it’s when Cherry talks about people, about family and community, that her heart seems to lift. “It’s all about community, absolutely,” she says. “Even now that we’re on the road with the new band, we’re like a family: we travel together on the bus in a lovely way, we cook together and I think it’s what comes naturally to me, it’s how I’ve always survived in this mad world. You just have to surround yourself with the right people. That love is everything.”

Photo: Wolfgang Tillmans

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 131

Rent a Finn This summer, Finland is launching its Rent a Finn service, which will see tourists matched to a Finnish ‘happiness guide’. The guides will take travellers hiking through forests, relaxing by lakes and foraging for food to reveal why Finns’ connection with nature makes Finland the happiest country in the world, according to the latest UN report.

By Colin Nicholson | Photos: Press photos

The survey asked between 2,000 and 3,000 people in each of 156 countries to imagine the best and worst possible life for them, benchmarking those as ten and zero. It then asked them to rate their current lives on that scale. Finland came top, closely followed by Norway, Denmark and Iceland, with Sweden in ninth place.

Visitors to Finland had until April to apply for the initiative, and several thousand did. Just a few will be selected on the 132 | Issue 125 | June 2019

basis of their video applications to join the eight group trips held between June and August, during which they will be welcomed into the homes of ordinary Finns, who will show them how to connect with nature and understand the Finnish art of relaxation.

“Many travellers choose to visit Finland because of our uniquely peaceful nature and tranquillity. The Rent a Finn campaign is in response to the global travel trend of living like a local, which is all

about sharing genuine experiences with ordinary people,” says Heli Jimenez, senior director for international marketing at Business Finland. “Pure nature is a part of life in Finland. We go outdoors in any weather and let our babies nap outside.

Our happiness guides all share a certain awareness, a great love of nature and an appreciation for slow living.”

The eight happiness guides were chosen from hundreds of applicants and will welcome visitors for a few days and show them their own ways of relieving stress in nature. “Time runs differently on our island. It seems to slow down somehow, and there is never a need to hurry,” explains one of the happiness guides, Linda Räihä, who lives with her partner Niko and their chihuahua Helmi in Utö, the southernmost island of Finland.

Scan Magazine | Culture Feature | Rent a Finn

So, who are the other happiness guides?

Katja Katja is a student and yoga teacher in the Käpylä area of Helsinki, which is so rustic that many visitors feel they are in the countryside. She wants to show guests how to experience nature within city limits, saying: “I love meditative moments in nature, lush forests, calm lakes and saunas.”

Esko Esko is mayor of Rovaniemi in Lapland.

He says: “I’m happiest when spending time surrounded by nature. Water in all its forms is important to me.”

Hanna Hanna, an IT marketing professional, has spent most of her summers sailing in Finland’s archipelago. She says: “Enjoying the sound of waves and beautiful sunsets on some deserted island is where I find my happiness.”

“There are many ways to connect with nature, from working in your vegetable patch to boating, fishing, heating up the sauna or foraging for mushrooms and berries in the forest.”

high-performance coaching company that believes sustainable performance is created through a balanced lifestyle. Its clients range from Formula One champions to Fortune 500 leaders.

Another guide, Timo Kukko, lives with his wife Päivi and their dog Mosku in the town of Hämeenlinna in southern Finland, where he manages museums and exhibitions for national parks. He says: “The sounds of nature, tranquillity and gently lapping waves ground me.

I want to share this feeling of happiness with the world. There are so many fantastic places in Finland that only locals can show you.”

Annastiina Hintsa, its chief operating officer, says: “Our modern life is full of stimuli, and unwinding can be a challenge.

Spending time in nature helps you reset and recover. Seeing where you stand is the first step towards reducing stress and creating long-term performance.”

The Rent a Finn initiative is being assisted by Hintsa Performance, a Finnish

The website rentafinn.com includes a test based on Hintsa’s methods to see how balanced your life is, with advice on reducing stress and maintaining mental wellbeing.

Juho Juho lives with his fiancée Marjukka in Kirkkonummi, near Helsinki, where he works as an urban farmer. He says: “I value experiencing nature through all the senses, such as when I’m building a fire, breathing in the morning dew or feeling the soil under my feet.”

Laura Laura and her partner Joni live in Sodankylä, in Northern Lapland. They walk in the forest daily and spend weekends hiking and bicycling. She says: “Our happiness stems from silence and nature’s constant presence. And the small-town atmosphere means we’re not completely isolated.”

Petri Petri is a physiotherapist who lives with his wife Sini in the village of Mathildedal in south-west Finland.

He says: “What do I like most about Finland? A natural silence that enchants your mind. Being alone and present.

Or a blissful post-sauna beer.”

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 133

Scan Magazine | Culture | Music

Scandinavian music Swedish superstar Tove Lo is back with the first single from her much-anticipated new album. Glad He’s Gone finds Tove momentarily leave behind the downbeat and tripped-out sound she has become famous for, and return with a more playful and upbeat pop song. Her trademark frank lyrics are kept intact, however, and on the subject of the song, she states: “We’ve all been on both sides of the break-up pep talk with our friends, and we all know how good it feels to get your partner in crime back when they finally leave that idiot behind.”

Fans of Swedish band The Sounds should be pleased to learn that two of its founding members – Maja Ivarsson and Felix Rodriguez – have gone and formed a brandnew duo Crew Of Me&You, for the sole purpose of pursuing a new sound that they didn’t really want to do with The Sounds.

They have just released their EP, Home Free. As for what that aforementioned new sound is, I love the fact that while everyone else right now is looking to either the ‘80s

134 | Issue 125 | June 2019

or ‘90s for sonic inspiration, these two have skipped forward a decade and gone for that glorious era in the mid-00s, when everyone was obsessed with electro-clash!

June is LBGT+ Pride month across the globe, and Pride in London has looked to the Nordics to provide the perfect soundtrack to their celebrations. Dance Like Nobody’s Watching, by Finnish artist Saara Aalto, has been selected as the official song for Pride in London 2019. One listen to the lyrics reveals just why the song was deemed special enough, and its theme of staying true to oneself in the face of overwhelming adversity is one that can be universally appreciated by all.

Finally, Norway’s own Astrid S is experiencing something of an artistic peak at the moment, putting her name to three different hits across three different genres, and excelling at each of them. Get psyched up with dance track Only When It Rains, a collaboration with producer Frank Walker; become blissed out with Sing It With Me, a

By Karl Batterbee

radio-friendly, guitar-based duet with the UK’s JP Cooper; and then wind down with the electro ballad that is her own new single, The First One.

Web: www.scandipop.co.uk

Issue 125 | June 2019 | 134

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Laleh. Photo: Lost Army

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

Fem Fatal Launch Party (15 June) The Fem Fatal launch party in Brighton will be the start of a new live music night and podcast celebrating pioneering women in music from across the globe.

Among others, the launch will feature Icelandic musician and artist Dj Flugvel Og Geimskip (which translates to ‘DJ Airplane and Spaceship’), who is known for her electronic horror music with a space twist. 7pm. The Rose Hill, 70-71 Rose Hill Terrace, Brighton BN1 4JL, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk 136 | Issue 125 | June 2019

By Sanne Wass

Just East of Jazz presents Adele Sauros (16 June)

Troll tales with Emily Hennessey (22 June)

Adele Sauros, a young Finnish jazz saxophonist and composer, will appear at the Chandos Arms in North London as part of a new series of jazz and food nights organised by Just East of Jazz, a record label. Having performed at jazz festivals in Finland and Denmark, Sauros has, since 2018, been based in London. 7pm. Chandos Arms, 31 Colindale Ave, NW9 5DS London, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk

Emily Hennessey invites brave listeners – old and young – to a “magical midsummer evening of troll tales”. Hennessey is a bold and dynamic performance storyteller who tells myths, epics, folktales and wondertales from across the world. In a cosy setting around the campfire, she will take participants into the mysterious, curious world of the trolls. 7pm. Castle Head Field Centre, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QT, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk

Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Lollapalooza Stockholm (28-30 June) The international music festival Lollapalooza is set to make its Swedish debut in late-June. Following successes in Berlin and Paris, Stockholm is the third European city to host the iconic festival. Lollapalooza Stockholm will feature performances from global superstars as well as exciting Swedish names such as Laleh, Lykke Li and Eric Prydz. Gärdet, Stockholm, Sweden. www.lollastockholm.com

Roskilde Festival (29 June-7 July) Roskilde Festival is the largest culture and music festival in northern Europe, held every year in Roskilde, Denmark.

Topping the bill this year are The Cure, Travis Scott, Vampire Weekend, Bob Dylan, Underworld, Cardi B, Robyn, and Lykke Li. Photo: Chloe Le Drezen

Baest. Photo: Press photo

Emily Hennessey. Photo: Press photo

Adele Sauros. Photo: Press photo

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Scan Magazine | Culture | Calendar

Robert Plant and The Sensational Shape Shifters. Darupvej 19, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark. www.roskilde-festival.dk

The Carice Singers: Sounding North tour (5-9 July) The Carice Singers, a UK-based ensemble, presents a regional exploration of Nordic choral music from the late-19th century to the present day. The hourlong concert seeks to give the audience the broadest possible experience of Nordic choral sound, featuring ‘kulning’ (Swedish herding calls), Norwegian folk singing and ‘löyly’ (the sound of steam in a Finnish sauna). Various locations, Cheltenham, London and Warwick. www.thecaricesingers.co.uk The Carice Singers. Photo: Press photo

Live at City Arts presents Doggerland (11 July) Join City Arts in Nottingham for a Scandi-flavoured folk night with the music group Doggerland. With the catchphrase ’where England and Scandinavia meet’, Doggerland focuses on the common musical heritage of the North Sea and the lands around it. The trio consists of Swedish Anders Ådin and Jenny

Doggerland. Photo: Press photo

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Gustafsson, and Norway-based Englishman Richard Burgess. City Arts, 11-13 Hockley, Nottingham NG1 1FH, UK. www.eventbrite.co.uk

G! festival (11-13 July) Over three days in July, G! festival takes over Syðrugöta, a village with a population of just 400 on the Faroe Islands.

With stages built on the beach, performances are held against the backdrop of the Faroes’ breathtaking landscape.

This year, the festival has partnered with Extreme Metal Voyager to curate a night of Nordic extreme metal, staging bands such as Danish Baest, Icelandic Zhrine and Faroese Iron Lungs. Syðrugøta, Gøta, Faroe Islands. www.gfestival.fo

Eric Prydz. Photo: Rick Guest