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Norway’s Buzzing Art Scene
Yayoi Kusama’s Hymn of Life. Photo: Therese Thanh Tran
Contemporary art for all the senses Tucked away on a picturesque green peninsula, a short drive from Oslo, Henie Onstad Kunstsenter is a sight for sore eyes. The art museum hosts an impressive rotation of five or six contemporary exhibitions every year. By Celina Tran
Henie Onstad Kunstsenter’s history stretches back to 1968, when the famous Norwegian figure skater Sonja Henie (1912–1969) and her husband Niels Onstad (1909–1978) donated funds, the building, and their collection of contemporary art to the art centre. Since then, the collection has expanded, welcoming curious minds from all over the world. Beautifully and strategically situated by the glittering water, the centre’s enormous grounds offer plenty of space to explore both the indoor exhibitions and the sculpture park outside. The architecture has captured international attention since its inauguration and today, the museum is one of Norway’s most celebrated buildings. 34 |
Issue 143
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June 2022
“About 100,000 people visit the centre and its grounds every year,” says Caroline Ugelstad, chief curator at Henie Onstad Kunstsenter. “One of our goals is to share art with everyone.” Art across the ages
can explore and express their own artistic abilities. The programme Unge Fotografer, meaning “young photographers”, promotes the photography of young people, allowing a new generation of artists to bloom. But their mission to spread the love for contemporary art is not limited to the young – they offer tours for people of all ages. “Art is a form of expression that can draw out all sorts of emotions. It offers new ide-
“Our core values focus on being hospitable, forward-leaning and accessible to our audiences,” says Ugelstad. “We create every exhibition with the audience in mind, and we place importance on having an open door to the public.” Henie Onstad has established itself as a leading art institution that communicates art to children and youths, offering everything from tours for babies, to a creative space in which young visitors
Fernand Léger – Composition with Head, 1930. Photo: Henie Onstad Collection
