Scan Magazine, Issue 149, December 2022

SWEDISH BLACK CAVIAR

Arctic Roe of Scandinavia is the pioneering producer of the world’s most unique delica cy, Black Caviar, produced without a single fish having to die. Sturgeons have become extinct and making Black Caviar without killing the fish aids in the recovery and sur vival of the world’s sturgeon population. A microchip is affixed to each sturgeon so its growth curve and harvests can be monito red over a decade or longer. Every second year, the females are milked for caviar, and on each caviar tin or jar sold, the name of the individual female sturgeon and the date of production are printed on a label.

The female sturgeons occupy an aban doned paper mill in southern Sweden on the banks of the massive river Lagan that empties into the North Sea. The aqua sys tem at Arctic Roe recycles more than 99% of the daily water consumption, and on-site wells provide water for the property.

Swedish Black Caviar can be found in se veral Guide Michelin restaurants, fish deli cacies and retail stores. It can also be or dered directly from the company.

www.arcticroe.com | info@arcticroe.com

Editor’s Note

At the end of the year, time seems to take on an elastic quality. December has arrived far too suddenly, and yet the events of February and March seem aeons ago. Dates approach with fearful velocity, yet the holiday break couldn’t come sooner. I like this time of year. I like to observe the disintegration of the normal around me. December is weirdly urgent, yet philosophical. We’re all in a rush to relax.

The new year always brings about an urge to reflect and predict, so this December, we’re diving into two very different visions of the fu ture. Our cover stars, artist-design duo Wang & Söderström talk us through their familiar, yet alien imaginings of digital forms as soft and animal, and offer a blueprint for a more holistic perspective on technology, as we careen deeper into the digital age.

Then, we speak to Katie Paterson, the founder of the Future Library in Norway, a project gathering 100 manuscripts from 100 writers, which will remain unpublished for 100 years. It’s an inherently opti mistic project, relying on future generations and forest cultivation to bring the books to fruition. Markedly more analogue than the work of

Wang & Söderström, together these two features present contrast ing speculative – but hopeful – visions of the road ahead.

Elsewhere, we’re visiting Sweden and Norway for a round-up of the best winter destinations in each country – from cabins in the wood to luxury chalets. Our regular Fashion Diary and We Love This de sign column have been given a festive make-over, with our pick of new-release garments ideal for glitzy meetups, and a guide to the chicest hand-luggage-sized weekenders to pack them in on your Christmas travels.

Plus, tune in to resident selector Karl Batterbee’s playlist of new Scandi music releases, and get insider tips for the best December events in the Nordics with our Culture Calendar. There’s a lot to di gest, so settle in, grab a cup of tea, glass of bubbles, eggnog, pint of whisky or whatever – it’s a chaotic time of year, after all – and enjoy these last moments of the year-that-was with us.

SCAN

MAGAZINE

Photo: Håvard Myklebust

In this issue

COVER FEATURE

28 Can humans ‘co-live’ with the digital world? A conversation with art and design duo Wang & Söderström

Copenhagen-based art and design duo Anny Wang and Tim Söderström are renowned for their visualisations of the realm between the digital and the physical. Their living universe of strangely human, but undoubtedly digital forms is as whimsical and familiar as it is unnerving and alien. It might be comforting to consider humans ‘co-living’ with technology as a future reality, but Wang & Söderström argue that it’s already here. So, what does that look like, exactly? And can we stay human in the age of technology?

DESIGN & CULINARY

6 Party-season fashion, chic weekenders and exemplary names in Nordic design

December is an omnibus of glitzy meetups, overdue reunions, family parties and tiresomely long trips. You’ll need dazzling outfits and versatile accessories – but will it all fit in your carry-on?

Get the look in this month’s Scandi Fashion Diary, then dodge the check-in fee with our pick of handluggage-sized weekenders. Elsewhere, we profile more exemplary Nordic design, from artisanal interior decor to handcrafted wooden skis.

LIFESTYLE

24 Beauty hacks, holiday mindfulness, and what to drink on Christmas day

Do your eyebrows need to go to rehab? If you feel attacked by that question, the answer’s yes. Come with us to Oslo, where we catch up with one of the city’s leading brow salons for a crash course on the restyling trend. Meanwhile, sustainability columnist Alejandra Cerda Ojensa shares her personal tips for a mindful Christmas, and beerexpert Malin Norman gifts us a cheat-sheet for matching beers with Christmas dinner.

SPECIAL THEMES

34 Norway’s Best Winter Experiences

This month, we present glass-fronted saunas on the brink of mountain-lined fjords, cosy wooden cabins ensconced in fairytale forests, and three different treetop accommodations for a total retreat into the winter wilderness. We’ve hit all the compass points, marvelling at mountains and fjords in the west, and pointing you to the best spots for aurora-borealis-chasing in the north. Plus, get to know the cultural gem Kongsvinger in the south, and discover the only Viking ship in Norway in the eastern region of Vestfold.

48 Swedish Winter Wonderland

The Swedish winter is like no other. In our seasonal getaway, we visit a 400-year-old winter market, get behind the scenes at the internationally renowned Icehotel and discover world-class ski resorts –surprisingly, just a stone’s throw from Stockholm. And that’s not the only surprise when it comes to accessibility: Swedish Lapland is less than two hours from the capital, with flights scheduled daily. With that in mind, we’ve gathered some of the best bases from which to explore the Arctic, from ecoretreats to luxury chalets.

64 Mini theme: Finnish Art and Handcraft

In this mini theme, we get to know three Finnish artists and artisans who are taking their crafts to new heights. Find out where to go online to source artworks by new and emerging makers in Finland, visit a farmstead artist’s collective and explore the crossover of jewellery and art with one of Helsinki’s most exciting young designers.

CULTURE

98 The Future Library project, unmissable December events, and end-of-year bangers

The Future Library project in Norway is collecting 100 manuscripts over 100 years, from some of the most influential writers of our time. The books will remain unpublished for a century, until the year 2114, when a special purpose-grown forest will be used to make the paper. Meanwhile, find inspiration for the best events to check out in the Nordics in our Culture Calendar, and join music columnist Karl Batterbee on a dig for the hottest new Scandinavian music, this month.

Fashion Diary

By Åsa H. Aaberge | Press photos

Earrings by Lie Studio

Dress by Bite Studio

Throughout the holiday festivities, let one dress be your versatile hero. The tailored Panel Dress from Swedish Bite Studio can be just that. Made of wool, it is warm enough to take you between veunes, between lunches and drinks. The double-layered flowy skirt adds elegance and the fuchsia hue a welcoming pop of colour in dark December. The dress is as chic worn alone with jewellery and pumps for the evening as it is with a cosy jumper, ballet flats and chunky wool stockings for the daytime.

Cixous Panel Dress, €790 www.bitestudios.com

One of the best things about a good pair of earrings, and all jewellery for that matter, is that it elevates any outfit. So if you want to stay in PJs all day, your earrings can still dress you up. The midnight-blue stone on these gold-plated hoops from Danish Lie Studio dangles perfectly and gets a twinkle when the light hits it.

The Charlotte Earring, €280 www.lie-studio.com

Vest by Santosh Clothing

An adaptable sweater vest is a wardrobe essential. The ADA vest from Swedish Santosh makes the per fect day-to-night option. It is made in soft cashmere and features a set of mother-of-pearl buttons in the front. Wear it buttoned up with a big, white lace-col lared shirt or over a dress or skirt.

ADA Vest, €253 www.santoshclothing.com

Hairbow by Vieille

Not only should gifts be adorned with a beautiful rib bon, but your hair deserves to be too. This hair bow made from leftover silk by Danish label Vieille has an elastic attached, making it an effortless addition to all kinds of up-dos.

Silk Hairbow, €43 www.vieille.dk

It is the season for elegant glam, things that glitter, dazzling cocktail parties and candlelit feasts. Dress the part!

Bracelet by Louis Abel

Choose jewellery that catches the eye and elevates your look. The wavy shape of the Navajo bracelet from Swedish Louis Abel makes it a stand-out piece. It’s plated in 18-karat gold and handmade in Sweden. Oh, and jewellery makes for a great Christ mas present, too.

Navajo Bracelet, €440 www.louis-abel.com

Bow tie by House of Amanda Christensen

There’s something jolly about a bow tie, is there not? And if it is a red and silky one, like this one from Swed ish Amanda Christensen, then it’s a surefire Christ mas favourite that will be worn year after year. Drop Pre Tie, €45 www.houseofamandachristensen.com

Wool Scarf by Our Legacy

More often than not, a great outfit is in the tiniest de tails. Your regular go-to white shirt will get a festive glow-up with a red scarf tied around the neck. Wool Scarf, €230 www.ourlegacy.com

Coat, trousers and shoes by Tiger of Sweden

A boxy wool coat like the Eerik coat from Tiger of Sweden is the perfect coat to throw over a blaz er or a knit in the colder months. Wear it with tailored trousers and lace-up shoes for a dapper look.

Eerik Coat, €649 Trousers, €199 Lace up shoe, €229 www.tigerofsweden.com

We Love This: Weekenders

Everyone needs a trusty carry-all that’s large enough to live out of for a week or so, but small enough to make it past the beady-eyed hand-luggage attendants at the airport. It’s a fine line to tread. It places unique demands on your packing style –which must be ruthlessly selective – and on your bag of choice. It should be streamlined, deceptively spacious, comfortable… and chic, obviously. With a hectic month of travel on the horizon for many, we’ve picked out our favourite weekenders that tick the boxes and look good doing it.

By Lena Hunter | Press photos

STURE by Sandqvist

Stockholm brand Sandqvist’s sleek and functional designs have made it a Scandi favourite, with a fol lowing far beyond Sweden’s borders. This spacious weekend bag, in an organic cotton and recycled poly ester mix, has a 47-litre capacity – the ideal carry-on size. It features interior pockets for keeping your es sentials organised and within reach, and a removable and adjustable shoulder strap.

€159

www.sandqvist.com

Eli by By Malene Birger

Patterned with their signature flower motif, the faux leather Eli bag is one of the most lusted-after travel accessories to come out of the Danish design house

By Malene Birger. The pattern is detailed without being overbearing, while the form is both elegant and practical. Scandinavian’s have a knack for un derstated luxury, don’t they? This beautiful travel companion features three interior compartments and one outer, for quick access to passports, wal lets, phones and the like.

€380 www.bymalenebirger.com

Aneli Chess Novara by ADAX

The Aneli weekender by the Danish label ADAX features a classic chessboard motif and simple silhouette, giving a timeless look that ensures this carry-all will look fly, every time you fly. Inside, the bag features a lightweight lining, large zipper pocket and two large side pockets, while the stiff base makes it easy to get an overview of the content.

€99.90 www.adaxshop.com

Icelandic label 66°North takes its name from the latitudinal line of the Arctic Circle which touches Súgandafjörður, where the company was founded in 1926. Today, the brand is synonymous with premium quality outerwear and adventure gear. This waterproof 60-litre duffle bag in 100 per cent nylon will safeguard your luggage in the wildest of weather. We love the Sunset Red version – a nod to the brand’s roots in fishermen’s clothing production.

€130 www.66north.com

Weekend Bag by RAINS

This Weekend Bag is Danish label RAINS’ interpre tation of a contemporary overnight bag, cut from their signature waterproof PU-coated fabric. This es sential design features a single main compartment, webbed carry handles, a detachable shoulder strap and adjustable lock slider buckles on the sides.

€70

www.rains.com

Fisherman’s Duffle Bag by 66°North

Legendary Finnish designer still going strong with new collaboration

Yrjö Kukkapuro is one of the most significant modernists in Finnish furniture design. His internationally-celebrated and award-winning career spans over 60 years. The Finnish furniture company Modeo is the main global partner of the Kukkapuro brand, marketing all of his collections, which remain in production.

By Sanna Halmekoski

Designer and professor Kukkapuro’s phi losophy is based on both aesthetic and functional innovation, user experience and ergonomics. He was born in 1933 and founded his first company in 1956. The most famous of his designs have proved to be modern classics and are still in produc tion. Objects designed by him are displayed in permanent exhibitions at the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The paths of Kukkapuro and Modeo crossed in 2018, when some of his classic seating designs, such as Ateljee (1963), Remmi (1969), and Triennale (1959) were reintroduced into Finnish production. Mo deo also serves the owners of vintage Kuk kapuro furniture by selling spare parts for several pieces.

Kukkapuro’s passion for design does not show any signs of slowing down, as he still continues to work at his iconic studio building in Kauniainen, Finland. In 2022, he designed new products for Modeo – the YKH22 and YK69 tables – conceived spe cifically to be at home both in the living room and the home office. In 2020, he also introduced a new collection celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Moomins, suit ed to all generations of family members.

The items in the Kukkapuro collection are delivered to consumers in beautiful packaging. The Triennale, YKH22 and YK69 are supplied in flatpack form, and do not require any tools for assembly. They realise Kukkapuro’s timeless de sign philosophy of aesthetics, ergonom ics and ecology.

Modeo has 16 years of experience de signing and furnishing attractive busi ness premises. With remote working becoming the new normal, Modeo has many individual solutions to offer to companies wanting to help their employ ees adapt to the situation. Modeo has 13 dealers in Finland and a large selection of brands in its portfolio, of which Kuk kapuro’s collection is the top in Finland. In the future, Modeo will largely focus on the international market and online channels to consumers.

www.yrjokukkapuro.com www.modeo.fi

Kukkapuro sitting at Kukkapuro YKH22 table. Photo: Modeo Ilmari Issakainen

Studio Kukkapuro. Photo: Studio Kukkapuro

Kukkapuro Remmi Chair, Black. Photo: Hannakaisa Pekkala

Stay warm and cosy this winter with Skinnwille

Skinnwille has been delivering high-quality home-interior products since 1922. The Swedish family company’s warming home-decor is made with sheepskin as the staple product, for items that create a cosy atmosphere. This year they are celebrating 100 years.

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa | Photos: Robin Ohlausson – Lave.works

“My grandfather Geron Wilhelmsson founded the company in Falköping in Sweden in 1922, and we’re proud to have warmed people’s homes for a century. The demand has increased in the last two years, when people have stayed at home more,” the CEO Stefan Wilhelms son reveals.

Made with different types of sheep skin, the products range from soft pil lows, warming throw-blankets and baby-stroller accessories, to cowhides and other leather products. They also have faux furs that are just as warm.

“The different skins have different properties and can be used all year round. A curly sheepskin is very comfort

able to sit on during summer because it allows airflow,” Wilhelmsson explains.

There is a noticeable boom now that people are being more mindful of the temperature in their homes. “A sheep

skin on the floor and a warm blanket provides lots of warmth and comfort on the colder days that we are experiencing this season,” Wilhelmsson says.

You can find Skinnwille in stores all over Europe and also in Japan. You can use the store locator on their website to find out more about the products and where you can buy them.

www.skinnwillehomes.se Instagram: @skinnwillehome.se

Clay and craftsmanship

If you cannot find it, make it. At least, that’s what Archiella founder Sofia Bergqvist did after she discovered a gap in the market when searching for flowerpots. Literally taking matters into her own hands, Bergqvist dived headfirst into the foreign world of clay and design – and the Archiella journey began.

Bergqvist took her first prototype to an Italian producer, who helped her bring her ideas to life with great Italian crafts manship. The Icon Pot collection was born, marrying glazed ceramics with eco-friendly Indonesian rattan, with each pot handmade to order. “Rattan is a fantastic material. It grows quick ly, makes the rainforest live longer and converts CO2 into clean air,” explains Bergqvist.

“Designed in Sweden. Made in Italy. An icon here to stay”; true to its tagline, Archiella’s pots are becoming known for their timeless look and bright colours. They feature a subtle, yet recognisable stitch pattern, customers can choose between gold or silver button details, and the rattan can also be removed if

preferred. “I like to think of the pots as jewellery – like statement pieces that you can dot around the house to brighten up your home,” says Bergqvist.

The brand’s range also includes cushion covers and bags made of nat ural cork. Quirky yet stylish, these bags help to put the planet first while shop ping for something new. And speaking of

new, there is plenty more to come from Archiella in the new year. Rest assured, your home is in for treat!

www.archiellaofsweden.com Instagram: @archiellaofsweden

The Icon Pot collection features a range of sizes and colours, with prices starting at 695 Swedish Krona. Save ten per cent on your first online order between 1 and 31 December 2022, with the code Archiellaholiday

By Emma Rodin | Photos: Archiella

Sustainable, long-lasting sports clothing for all weather

Keli is a Finnish sports brand making locally-produced clothing from merino wool, a natural fibre ideal for handling varied climates. In Finnish, the word ‘keli’ refers to the weather conditions of a road or a path. Founded by Finnish couple and avid cyclists, Sanni Pennanen and Timo Föhr, the visionary clothing company proves that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand.

By Sanna Halmekoskim | Photos: Keli Clothing

“Keli was born out of our own need and desire for simple, stylish and responsibly-made sporting clothes. We decided to produce our own and build a cycling clothing brand ourselves,” says Pennanen. In the late autumn of 2015, the couple was expecting their first child and went for long walks in a nearby forest. “During these walks we started to talk about the idea of making merino wool cycling wear in Finland. The pine-tree forest looked spectacular in its shades of moss green and rusty red. That’s when we picked out those beautiful natural colours for our collection.”

Today, Keli is a versatile sports-clothing brand, that can be worn by anyone and is suitable for various sports. “The magical

thing about merino wool is that you can wear it for weeks without having to wash it, and it keeps fresh without starting to smell. The wool adapts to the temperature of the skin, particularly when worn directly against it. Our T-shirts and running pants can be worn on their own and will keep you cool when sweating, but they are warm when it gets cold,” Pennanen explains.

Keli uses ZQ-certified wool from New Zealand, ensuring that the sheep are humanely-treated and are not subjected to mulesing. This means that the lambs don’t have to endure having a strip of skin around their backside removed without pain relief. The wool is spun into yarn, and knitted into fabric in Italy. Most

of the clothes are made with care locally in Finland.

“We believe there should be choices for consumers who care about their impact on the environment,” says Pennanen. “We have come a long way since our walks in the forest and have created the sustain able sports-clothing brand we dreamt about. We are now ready to move on to other projects and are looking to sell Keli to the right person.”

www.keliclothing.fi Instagram: @keliclothing Email: info@keliclothing.fi

Whimsical Nordic textiles, inspired by folklore and nature

Taking inspiration from Scandinavian nature and folk tales, Vilpola creates soft, colourful textiles that showcase uniquely Nordic designs. Operated by the familyowned fabric wholesaler Tukku, which has been on the Finnish scene for over 68 years, Vilpola now has a successful online store in Finland and has its sights set on expanding into Europe.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Vilpola

Terhi Laitakari, the company’s collection manager and in-house pattern designer, believes that the environment and cultur al history of Finland are perfect for nurtur ing creativity and new ideas. “For Finns, nature sparks an inexhaustible bank of ideas,” she says. “Local history is also an important source of inspiration.” New products this autumn include designs taken from Finnish folklore, a tablecloth called ‘Trollboy’, and a cosy bedsheet set called ‘The Fox is Dreaming’.

Besides their own online store, Vilpola oc casionally holds pop-up sales. In addition, their products are available at the Online Exclusive store – part of Stockmann, the iconic Finnish department store.

Vilpola’s most popular products are duvet covers. Laitakari thinks one reason for this is that customers are drawn to their

intricate patterns and rich hues, including deep plum, moss green and winter grey. “It is very important to me what kind of sheets I slip into to sleep,” she says. “It seems that even your dreams are better when you sleep under bedclothes with a pleasing look.”

Vilpola’s name comes from the town of Akaa, located near Tampere, Finland, where the company was founded. The word ‘vilpola’ is very Finnish: a vilpola is a veranda or cooling room where peo ple can relax after visiting the sauna. As Laitakari says, “the word breathes the kind of peace we hope to represent in their patterns.”

Vilpola’s commitment to nature extends to their materials and production. Vilpola uses only soft, durable cottons. Patterns are printed in Europe, but all design, sew

ing, product description, marketing and packaging is done in Finland. “It is impor tant for us to bring jobs to Finland,” says Laitakari. “That way, we’re involved in pre serving the textile industry here.”

Dreaming up designs at Vilpola often be gins with a story. Laitakari focuses on one word and sees where it leads her. “For ex ample, the word ‘leprechaun’ came to my mind,” she says. “I thought, what a beau tiful word. A story in a dreamlike mush room forest with an adventurous elfin boy took shape in my mind from that. From the story, the style and patterns grew.” At Vilpola, designing textiles is a bit like be ing on a treasure hunt every time.

www.vilpola.com

Instagram: @vilpola.finnishdesign Facebook: Vilpola

The last wooden-ski makers in Norway

In Norway, it is often joked that Norwegians are born with skis on their feet. While not everyone has natural talent, skiing truly does have deep roots in Norwegian culture. On any given snowy weekend in Oslo, you’ll find people with a rucksack and a pair of skis on the metro, on their way into the woods.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Rønning Treski

For hundreds of years, skis were made out of wood, until they fell out of favour during the plastic revolution in the 1960s. But now, that’s changing. Plastic is no longer a wonder product, but an environ mental problem.

There is only one business left producing wooden skis in Norway: a family business founded in 1936 called Rønning Treski. When Ulf Rønning took the reins from his father in 1965, it was during the advent of plastic skis – a challenging time to inher it the business. “In the 1930s there were

over 100 ski factories. When I took over there were 25,” says Rønning. One by one he was forced to let employees go, until only he remained.

But Rønning worked hard and persevered, and kept the business afloat. Today, it’s run by his son and produces some 300 pairs of wooden skis a year for clients all over the world, from the likes of New Zea land, Japan, Canada and the US.

One might think wooden skis are for the pros, but they’re well-suited to beginners and casual skiers. Meanwhile, plastic skis need to be treated with different types of wax depending on the temper ature and the snow. This can be compli cated and, if not done correctly, ruin a sojourn on the slopes.

“Wooden skis won’t be as slippery as plastic skis, thought you can wax them to improve the glide,” Rønning says. “And you get better grip when going uphill.”

This means that they’re ideal for children. It’s not unusual for Norwegian kids to be given their first pair of skis shortly after they start walking.

Wooden skis are low maintenance; a lay er of wood tar at the end of the season is all that’s needed to keep out moisture and keep them in top condition. Plus, they’re environmentally friendly. What’s not to love?

www.ronningski.no

All skis are made by hand.

Second and third generation Rønning, Ulf Rønning and Jonas Rønning.

Only the highest quality wood gets used for a pair of Rønning skis.

Wooden skies are perfect for off-piste skiing. Photo: Jo Stenersen

Smart-function, smart-look interior design

Interior design is all about craftsmanship. It’s about achieving smart, functional and beautiful spaces using long-lasting materials, while allowing for personalisation. This is the philosophy at the core of Smart Form.

“I am passionate about creating unique products with a purpose – items that simplify everyday life while adding to interior design. I create things that I like and that will enhance a home. Whether they are for displaying treasures found throughout life, or optimising your favourite household items,” says Smart Form’s founder and creator Robert Bengtsson.

Smart Form consists of several collections of long-lasting homeware design products made out of concrete, wood and cork. “My designs include smaller decorations and accessories, such as vases, candle holders and boxes, smaller furniture and garden accessories, as well as items that can be combined with your ‘smart home’ products. Simply put: items that enhance your life and wellbeing. I focus on creating items that work with each other and are therefore part of a system. They can be combined and used together depending on your wants and needs.”

Robert works with natural materials and is inspired by both travel and the local landscape. “I have lived in Italy and in Japan, and my designs are definitely inspired by the style and craftsmanship I

By Hanna Andersson

experienced there. But my biggest inspiration comes from the beach, the water and woods here in Skåne. I bring aspects of this aesthetic into the home, so they can be the long-lasting stars.”

www.smartform.se

Instagram: @smartformsweden

Facebook: Smart Form Sweden

Photo: Åsa Gramén

Photo: Robert Bengtsson

Jump head-first into the world of augmented reality

From fun, interactive ways to drive engagement to visually explaining complex concepts, augmented reality (AR) is becoming an attractive resource for many businesses. To demonstrate its endless potential, flyAR is proud to showcase the first-ever augmented reality demo to be featured in Scan Magazine. Scan the QR code for an awesome company tour!

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: flyAR

The world of AR is developing at light ning speed, and the advances made in just a few years have been monumental. Gone are the days when people need ed to download an app in order to view augmented reality content. These days, augmented reality content runs within mobile browsers as web-based AR –called webAR. WebAR-content can be accessed easily via QR codes, that are scanned automatically using a mobile phone’s camera.

“For example, the AR-experience fea tured in this magazine is a living scale model of our office in Tikkurila, Finland. These days, launching webAR is quick

and easy, and there are plenty of options for what information and types of digital content to share with people,” flyAR’s CEO Frans Tihveräinen explains.

flyAR is a creative augmented reality (AR) studio that offers tailor-made augment ed reality solutions for business clients, cities and museums. Their business story began in 2017, when Tihveräinen and his friend, Eero Salminen took part in an Industryhack-facilitated innovation challenge for Stora Enso – and won. To gether, the two founders have almost 20 years’ combined experience in the world of extended reality. They built flyAR on a philosophy of playfulness mixed with

professionalism – and infinite amounts of creativity.

For flyAR, the sky’s the limit when it comes to the business potential of aug mented reality. “What sets us apart from other AR companies is that we are a creative and platform-independent AR studio, and not a technology company. We are creative engineers and engi neer-y creatives who like to push the boundaries of technology and create experimental and innovative solutions.”

In addition to AR production work, their expert services include bespoke handson AR workshops, and consultation for businesses, cities and schools.

Making complex concepts easier to digest

With the help of AR, even complex con cepts can be explained quickly and eas ily. Recently, flyAR did exactly that with a big construction company. “Develop ment projects always include 3D blue

NCC Property Development - Savonkatu webAR flyer. Elävät Juuret webAR museum marketing flyer.

Image tracking webAR example illustration.

flyAR office 3D model.

prints of the project, so why not make it a 3D AR presentation of the project?” Tihveräinen posits.

And that is exactly what flyAR did in a recent project for their client NCC Prop erty Development, where a living-scale model of a new residential area was presented to residents in the area on a flyer. The residents were able to give feedback on the development via official city channels through links embedded in the webAR flyer. “We included fun ani mated details; traffic, trains and tiny lit tle humans too,” he explains.

A single AR experience can include many types of digital media content; animated 3D-models, audio, video, images (including 360), text information and links. AR-optimised and lightweight 3D content can also be easily embedded into websites, bringing visitors one step closer to the brand’s product, for example.

Another one of flyAR’s recent projects includes Elävät Juuret, a webAR expe rience for ten museums around Lake Tuusula in southern Finland. The pro ject included a cute and playful animat ed 3D-model of the region in which the cluster of museums are based. This al lowed visitors to get a sneak peek into

each museum through 360-images and gain an understanding of how close to each other the museums are.

In addition, it included a treasure-hunt functionality, where users could scan unique AR treasure images when they were in the museums in exchange for real-life prizes. “This was a fun project, and an excellent way to make informa tion-heavy content more accessible to visitors in the area,” says Tihveräinen.

flyAR has augmented reality for one of the world’s leading high-end beauty brands, internationally-renowned crea tive agencies, and numerous business es from the fields of marketing, con struction, education and science.

“The best AR ideas are yet to be dis covered”

Tihveräinen cannot understand why AR is not used by more brands and busi nesses: “I know it’s my job, but I really think AR is a perfect way for businesses and organisations to share and com municate about their ideas, products and services. WebAR can be utilised on practically anything printed, including packaging, as a way for companies and brands to engage with their audience,” he explains.

Social media apps have been a driving force for AR development, and apps such as SnapChat, TikTok and Instagram have brought social AR possibilities a step further, and closer to our daily lives. He believes the best ideas in AR are yet to be discovered. “With AR, your imagi nation is the limit. If clients don’t even know what it can be used for, they can’t make use of it. That’s why we’re here,” he concludes.

www.flyar.fi

Instagram: @theflyAR

Facebook: theflyAR

YouTube: flyARAugmentedRealityStudioOy

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Mills Kaviar: a taste like no other

Mills’ tube of caviar has been a breakfast staple in Norwegian homes for several generations, and if you’re ever dining with a Norwegian family, it’s almost guaranteed you’ll find the bright blue tube in their fridge. But did you know that this Norwegian product has also gained popularity abroad?

By Celina Tran | Photos: Mills Kaviar

Tradition, craftsmanship and quality roe: this is what makes up every tube of Mills Kaviar. Since its launch seven decades ago, Mills has worked with local fisher men in the north of Norway to ensure that only the very best roe ends up in the famous tubes. The roe comes from skrei,

a special migratory Arctic cod that’s only found off the coast of northern Norway between January and April.

Arne Røstgård grew up on a tiny island in Lofoten called Værøy. Roe-fishing season was the big event of the year,

with hundreds of boats scattered around the island. The tradition is passed down through the generations, and Arne was still young when he joined his first fish ing trip. Since getting a taste, he’s never looked back.

“I’m going to continue for as long as my health allows me to,” says the 66-yearold, who has 51 fishing seasons under his belt. Arne has considered slowing down, perhaps even retiring, but simply can’t let go of his passion. “Every time I head to sea, it’s just as exciting as the

Arne on the fishing boat. Photo: Max Emanuelson

first time. It’s just me and the fish. I defi nitely have the best ‘office’ in the world,” he enthuses.

Arne’s childhood friend Jarle Andreas sen is 68, and has also been a fisherman nearly all his life. Today, he manages the family company that his grandfather es tablished, Astrup Lofoten AS, which has been delivering roe to Mills for decades.

At Værøy, Jarle and his colleagues re ceive the skrei from Arne and the other fishermen, before quickly transferring the roe to barrels with sugar and salt. The process itself is a unique form of crafts

manship: the quantities of roe, sugar and salt need to be perfect, and only the best roe will make it into the tube.

“Værøy is a community of fishermen. We make our living by selling stock fish, lute fish and roe,” Jarle says. “We’ve heavily relied on the ocean’s natural resources, and we’re very lucky. There’s no better quality skrei than the ones that travel over our ice caps every winter, and the cold ocean temperature makes for per fect conditions for the roe itself. I’m very proud of being a fisherman, but also a provider of excellent food to the Norwe gian people,” he adds.

Værøy is a tiny island in Lofoten, Norway, renowned for its fishing culture. Photo: Max Emanuelson

Childhood friends and skilled fishermen in Værøy, Arne and Jarle. Photo: Max Emanuelson

From Astrup Lofoten and the other sup pliers, the roe barrels are sent to the Mills facility in Finneidfjord, where they are stored for nine to eleven months be fore continuing their journey to Fredrik stad. Here, factory manager Eirin Skovly and her colleagues at the Mills factory finalise the production process. “We conduct thorough quality control of the roe before it’s smoked in smoking cabi nets using beech chips, which gives our caviar its famous smoky taste. After wards, we mix in the remaining ingre dients, pipe the final product into tubes, and ship it off to stores,” explains Skovly.

Mills Kaviar travels across the pond

Once Mills Kaviar had become a Nor wegian success, the company looked to foreign markets. 15 years ago, Icelandic supermarkets became the first outside of Norway to see Mills Kaviar on their

shelves. “Iceland has a long history and culture of eating fish, so we thought they would enjoy Mills Kaviar,” explains export director at Mills, Terje Tobiassen. And en joy it they did – today, most Icelandic su permarkets continue to sell Mills Kaviar.

Since then, culinary enthusiasts from across the globe have become familiar with Mills Kaviar, and by mere chance, the caviar tubes even made their way to over 500 supermarkets in Egypt.

“We got to know the Norwegian consul in Port Said, who also happens to run an import company. As a big fan of the cav iar himself, we began a business rela tionship that has become very success ful. The Egyptians like the smoky taste and use Norwegian caviar as an appe tiser on crackers, bread or other sides at dinnertime,” says Tobiassen.

A squeeze of Mills Kaviar is a delicious extra touch on sushi.

Mills Kaviar can be found in delicatessens all over Thailand.

One might think sun-deprived voyagers from Norway are the reason for Mills’ booming business in Thailand, but it turns out that the tubed caviar has become a success among the local people there. “In Thailand, you’ll find both mayonnaise and caviar from Mills behind fish counters and in grocery stores. It’s become popu lar among locals to use the caviar in su shi; a tiny bit of salmon and a squeeze of Mills Kaviar, blasted with a blowtorch for a quick second, is a delicacy like no other.”

Tobiassen and his Mills colleagues con tinue to look to new markets, and export sales are projected to rise by 40 per cent this year. “I’m happy to have a job where I get to introduce these quality products to the rest of the world. Norwegians are avid travelers, so it’s no surprise that excite

ment fills the air when they find their Mills favourites in Spanish, Greek and Thai shops, among others. Additionally, it’s so much fun when other cultures get a taste of the culinary treasures that we have to offer,” he says.

www.mills.no Instagram: @mills_as Facebook: Mills

Did you know that...

- Caviar is one of the food items that Norwegians are most likely to take with them on holiday?

- Over 600 fishermen in northern Norway deliver skrei roe to Mills from January to April?

- The roe in Mills Kaviar is stored in barrels of salt and sugar for nine to eleven months?

- According to tradition, Mills’ own ‘smoking masters’ adapt the degree of smoke to each and every barrel of roe?

- Mills Kaviar tubes are made of 100 per cent recycled aluminum?

Mills Kaviar is produced in Fredrikstad, Norway. Photo: Max Emanuelson

Scandinavian Lifestyle

Beers to go with festive Christmas meals

As we are approaching Advent and Christmas, it’s time to look for tasty beers to pair with your festive meal. In Scandi navia, Christmas food usually means an abundance of rich, salty and fatty dishes. To complicate things further, we often have lavish cheese boards, puddings and sweets afterwards. What beer can possi bly handle all of these flavours?

Don’t worry! A hot tip is to get a few dif ferent styles to enjoy with the wide vari ety of dishes on the table (not all at once though). As with the food, it’s a good idea to start light and easy and then work to wards darker and more flavourful beers, to keep from overpowering your palette.

For pickled herring and smoked salmon, try a crisp Pilsner or a Weissbier. Then you can move on to Dark Lager, with a more roasted character and some sweetness to balance richer dishes such as ribs,

meats and roasted veg. For dessert, or a beer to sip slowly by the open fire, why not choose something a bit stronger and more full-bodied like an Imperial Stout with flavours such as dried fruit, coffee and dark chocolate, or a warming, strong and sweet Barley Wine?

If you insist on going all-in with just one beer for the festive meal, aim for a trusty Belgian style. They are incredibly versa tile. A complex Belgian Dubbel or Tripel can carry rich foods and will also match with cheeses and sweet puddings.

My favourite Belgian style that always seems to work somehow is Saison. There is something intriguing about the earthy, peppery spiciness in the yeast character, combined with the dry finish and carbon ation, that pairs well with a lot of dishes. Otherwise, simply enjoy it on its own as a nice little Christmas treat.

A merry mindful Christmas

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

I’m a sucker for the Christmas season –not necessarily Christmas itself, but the cosiness that envelops the city during Christmas. I love how the nature of busi ness transforms into a kinder version of itself. Stores light up with candles and Christmas lights, we eat saffron buns and plan for gifts. Last Christmas, my husband and I went to my mother-in-law’s, and I re member thinking how happy I felt when I had curled up in a comfy chair with a blan ket and was reading a really good book I had found on her bookshelf.

We always say Christmas is about family, but we still feel obliged to buy superfluous gifts out of guilt or societal pressure, rather

than giving a thoughtful, personal gift. This year, I encourage you to spend your money in small independent stores, gift something pre-loved, something you have made your self, and only gift things that you believe will spark joy in the receiver’s heart.

If someone says they don’t need anything material – gift them with your time in stead. Before the year ends, write down one promise to yourself. Forget about go ing to the gym or losing X amount of weight and focus on something that is important to you. Last year, I promised myself to write more, and I have kept that promise. Thank you for spending these words with me. See you in 2023.

By Malin Norman

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

Sustainability columnist Alejandra Cerda Ojensa is a Swedish sustainability blogger based in Copenhagen. She loves sustainable fashion, plant-based food, natural wines and music. Instagram: alejandracerda.co

Natural woodland-inspired skincare for adults, mothers and babies

Design and eco-conscious parents are likely already acquainted with Wooden Story –the family manufacturer of handmade wooden toys that has delighted children for 50 years. But, when Justyna and Karol Budek, the latest in the Wooden Story generation, found out they were having a baby of their own, they branched out and launched Windy Woods: a 100 per cent natural skin- and body-care range, inspired by woodland scents and ingredients, in stunning glass and hand-carved wooden bottles.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: Windy Woods

“Windy Woods is for the whole fami ly. We make products that everybody needs in their home, in premium quality with sustainable ethics,” says Karol. The range encompasses all-natural haircare, bodywash, handwash and hand cream for women and men, and the ‘Mama

and Baby’ line of sunscreen, nappy rash cream, hair and bodywash, and a nourish ing and firming belly oil.

“I use the two-in-one hair and bodywash for my baby and, of course, the nappy rash cream. You can really see the difference compared with standard brands. It’s very smooth and delicate,” says Justyna.

Blown by the wind

The scents are inspired by the couple’s home region – the forested slopes of the Beskidy Mountains that stretch along the Polish-Slovakian border. “The wind danc es among the majestic trees, picking up the aromas that float between the under growth and the canopy,” says Justyna. Named after the points of the compass –Breezy North, Mysterious East and Jungle

South – each scent has its own enchant ing woodland top-notes of pine, cedar or Peruvian pepperwood.

“There aren’t a lot of natural forest scents in cosmetics. Many are synthetic and very strong. We wanted to create a range con nected to nature, so we also use ingredi ents from the forest, like birch wood and pine-needle extract,” says Karol. Inside every bottle, Windy Woods skincare is up to 99.9 per cent naturally sourced.

Beautiful outside and in, the label has already been spotted by Vogue. The range is wrapped in elegant, eco-friendly glass bottles and every lid is handmade from 100 per cent ash wood. “One of the basic values passed down from Wooden Story was respect for nature,” says Justyna. “We knew there were more people like us. So we came up with this idea. Or, if you prefer, the wind blew, and brought us an idea that smells like the forest. We just named the idea Windy Woods.”

www.windywoods.pl Instagram: @windywoodsskincare Facebook: windywoodsskincare

Time for BrowRehab?

You may not have given it much thought, but your eyebrows are one of the most defining features of your face. The immediate impact of perfectly-styled eyebrows has inspired a new trend in beauty care: brow restyling. Thanks to BrowRehab, an Oslo-based beauty business focusing only on eyebrows, the trend is now also popular in Norway.

By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen | Photos: BrowRehab

Silje Lyngstad is the entrepreneur be hind BrowRehab. Her story is one of amazing growth, but also of sudden hurdles that she turned into an opportu nity. “I used to work as a make-up artist in Australia and was impressed by the amount of eyebrow restyling we did. I took the concept with me when I moved home to Norway, and soon opened my own salon,” she recounts.

Influencers and Instagram

The timing turned out to be very lucky. At the time when Lyngstad opened her first salon in Oslo, Instagram was emerging as a major social network. The use of pho tos suited Lyngstad’s business particular ly well. She asked some of her clients to agree to ‘before and after’ pictures that she published to demonstrate the impact of her treatment. The result was over whelming.

“Some influencers picked up the pictures and it became a big thing. Just a few months after opening, I had to hire a fulltime employee,” she explains. “The two of us did eyebrows for 10 to 12 hours a day. We got pretty good at it,” she says with a smile. Soon, BrowRehab had 13 salons across Norway. But when the pandemic hit, it was time for a rethink.

Rebranding during the pandemic

“I used the pandemic to rebrand my busi ness. Unfortunately, I had to close most

of the salons, but in return I started pro ducing my own cosmetics,” Lyngstand explains. Today, BrowRehab comprises one salon and 13 employees, and a pro fessional academy for brow styling – in addition to a completely vegan make-up collection.

The brow lift is the most popular treat ment at BrowRehab. “We design brows that fit the client’s face,” she says, add ing that clients can come back for a fol low-up four to six weeks after the origi nal treatment.

Also for men

Brow restyling is not only for women; treatments for men have grown increas ingly popular. “The treatment includes trimming of the nasal hair and beard and is completely painless,” Lyngstad explains. Looking to the future, Lyngstad reveals that in addition to expanding on the cosmetics collection, she has plans for a new salon in Oslo. It seems the brow styling trend is likely here to stay!

www.browrehab.no Instagram: @browrehab.no Facebook: browrehabsalons

BrowRehab also produce their own cosmentics and brow utensils.

Time for a brow rehab.

Silje Lyngstad is the entrepreneur behind BrowRehab.

experiences

Anny Wang & Tim Söderström. Photo: Luke & Nik

Can humans ‘co-live’ with the digital world? A conversation with art and design duo Wang & Söderström

Copenhagen-based art and design duo Anny Wang and Tim Söderström are renowned for their visualisations of the realm between the digital and the physical. Their living universe of strangely human, but undoubtedly digital forms evades easy definition – as whimsical and familiar as it is unnerving and alien. It might be comforting to consider humans ‘co-living’ with technology as a future reality, but Wang & Söderström argue that it’s already here. So, what does that look like, exactly? And can we stay human in the age of technology?

Following their first solo exhibition, Royal Chambers in Copenhagen, we caught up with the artist couple to hear their take.

By Lena Hunter

Your work is really on the edge of technology and art. How did Wang & Söderström begin, and what got you where you are today?

WANG: We established our studio as a duo in 2016, but our practise was born back during our university studies, when we found this 3D software for making spatial and architectural renderings.

On weekends and evenings, we started playing with it – exploring the other tabs and features. We began by making still imagery, then slowly started animating and creating stuff with it.

What were you making? What possibilities did you see?

WANG: In the beginning, we did a lot of material exploration. There’s no hier archy in the digital world. You can use really expensive materials, like marble and gold and so on, that are very limited in the real world, and you can also break all the physical laws.

SÖDERSTRÖM: That was when we got the 3D printer, so our creations in the software could become small objects that we could touch. The 3D printer was really a gateway to creativity for us.

We learned the software by ourselves, by watching YouTube tutorials, and we quickly noticed that digital technology and the digital world is shaped by few people, from a narrow demographic and background. We saw so much to explore, and so many ways to do things different ly to them, but with the same tools.

WANG: It’s not to criticise them, it’s more that they were all subscribing to the same image of what digital is: very sci-fi-driven, very functional and effi cient. And so those are also the associa tions that people in general have.

We thought, how can we broaden the aesthetic and the meaning of digital?

Still from Rehousing Technosphere by Wang & Söderström.

How can we make the digital softer and more human? Today we produce im ages, video, sculpture and installation, and our work explores what digital can look and feel like, and how the world is changing through technology.

In your recent solo exhibition Royal Chambers, you present a digital world that is not hard and functional, but soft, animal and even sensual. Do you find that people think more openly about technology when they consider it through the lens of art?

SÖDERSTRÖM: I think when digital technology is always presented in its own space – perhaps that of science, engineering or computing – then it stays there. But the reality is that the digital is everywhere. We’re so nested in it now, and art is a good way of talking about something that’s everywhere, without placing it in a certain space.

What’s your approach to making digital forms appear softer and more human?

WANG: We evoke and subvert the organ ic. We work very sculpturally and take cues from recognisable forms. Some thing might look like a nose, or resem ble a heart chamber, but then it has this

digital quality to it; it could be a kind of digital ‘preciseness’, or it might incorpo rate something that’s very hard to make by hand.

SÖDERSTRÖM: The goal is not to only make the digital relate well to our world, but to create a third field where the hu man is mixed with the digital.

WANG: I think a lot of designers and artists work like this. You take the rec ognisable and add the unfamiliar. It of ten inspires a more personal response

because everyone relates to the result slightly differently. You might see a small person or animal, and I might see a flower. When we see something for eign, we want to connect it to something relatable.

Are you pessimistic or optimistic about humans and the digital world coming together?

WANG: Both! And the reason is that today, a lot of digital elements in our lives are geared for a commercial world where it’s not about your health or body, or expand

Still from Rehousing Technosphere by Wang & Söderström.

Wang & Söderström for Nobel Prize.

Sucsessful Supper II by Wang & Söderström.

Sebae Vessel by Wang & Söderström.

ing your senses. The potential is there, but instead we see situations where we sit un comfortably, looking at blue screens that are not good for our eyes.

In the future, the digital will be more and more present in our lives. But how can we ensure it works with our human senses? We mustn’t forget that we’re still in our bodies all the time, experi encing these digital elements. We need those softer values.

When we make the digital more human, it’s because thinking about technology as part of nature encourages a more ho listic view of how we can co-live with the digital world, and our changing planet. That sounds quite hopeful to me!

WANG: I think we actually are hopeful. As we see it, we live in a time where the digital future is still very mouldable. Many people have the opportunity to in fluence future technology by finding dif ferent ways of using it.

How you think about technology shapes how we build it. If we can broaden how we think about the digital, then we make sure that the technology that is being built will work for humans and the planet.

What are you working on right now?

WANG: We’ve been selected among a total of 34 designers and craftsmen to take part in the Biennale of Craft and Design here in Copenhagen in April 2023. The theme is ‘converting’ – from analogue to digital.

SÖDERSTRÖM: The setup is a dining ta ble for two, where you have the chance to sit and eat with a digital avatar through a VR headset.

WANG: It explores this modern idea of leading a social life online. There’s this big phenomenon called mukbang, where people sit and eat a lot on camera. There’s an unhealthy aspect to it, but there’s also a social aspect, where people feel less alone when they’re watching. Maybe it gives them a dinner partner.

SÖDERSTRÖM: The viewer will expe rience something we try to express in every project: the digital world, inter twined with human qualities, and other social and emotional associations with in that – like ideas of comfort and home.

The concept of ‘home’ was also central to Royal Chambers. Is that something you’re going to push further in your future work?

SÖDERSTRÖM: Yes, actually. As an ex tension of Royal Chambers, we are pub lishing our first book next year, with the same title. It unfolds the term ‘home’

even more, through essays by writers from all kinds of different disciplines and backgrounds – a chef, for example, talking about home-cooked food – to give perspective on life and living, in this very rapidly changing world.

WANG: Coming from a very fast-paced and fleeting Instagram-based portfolio, we’re excited to try this new medium that can reach globally, but also exist –hopefully – for a long time.

www.wangsoderstrom.com Instagram: @wangsoderstrom

Photo: Andy Price

NORWAY’SBEST WINTEREXPERIENCES SpecialTheme:

Rent a forest cabin in a recess of tranquil nature

Have you ever envisioned spending the night at the top of a tree in the middle of a forest, with the roar of waterfalls as your lullaby? Then Å Camp might be your dream off-grid destination.

By Åsa H. Aaberge | Photos: Å Camp

The glory of Å Camp is in its immediate proximity to raw, untouched nature, and in it’s simplicity: the small wooden tree top cabins; the sauna by the river; the nofrills lifestyle with no electricity, just light from burning candles and a roaring fire.

“Å Camp is a back-to-nature experience at the edge of Hardangervidda, located by the moutain river Tessungåe. Essen tially, our concept is like that of a tradi tional Norwegian cabin – minimalistic yet intriguing. We have found a point where

it all balances, a warm and welcoming experience, kept simple and down to earth,” says Isaac Kolbein, who runs the camp with his family.

Norway’s largest national park

“There is no luxury here in terms of fan cy facilities. The luxury of Å Camp lies in the beauty of nature,” Kolbein em phasises. Å Camp consists of cabins, a micro house and a bell tent available for rent, in a small valley. About 20 minutes away is the wild and wonderful moun

tain plateau Hardangervidda, which is protected as part of Hardangervidda Na tional Park – Norways largest national park. Hiking in lush landsdcapes, fish ing in untamed rivers and cross-country skiing at Hardangervidda are all within walking distance from Å camp.

Photo: Robin Mathisen

Inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese architecture, the cabins, built in an old pine forest, are made from wood, with glass façades. All are drawn and envi sioned by Kolbeins father, Peter Man ning. Right outside the cabin windows is the deep forest. The nearby river fea tures small natural pools perfect for cold dips, followed by a warming sauna. On cold days, light the fire in the cabins and enjoy the leisure of doing nothing.

“What makes this place so unique is the lack of people and tourists. There are not many people around. The camp feels remote, quiet and serene. One can have the luxury of solitary time in nature,” says Kolbein. The restorative qualities of solitude can be hard to come by in our busy contemporary society, but here they abound – a highlight pointed out by many of Å Camp’s guests. “The simple ness here is deliberate. We do not want to create a fancy experience, but a real, authentic and raw one,” says Kolbein.

Strength in simplicity

Whilst each cabin is different in style and design, they are accessible for all. Driving is the easiest and cheapest way to get to Å Camp, and Kolbein recom mends that visitors rent a car. Garder moen airport is a three-hour drive from the camp. However, it is possible to visit by bus to Austbygde, or to arrive by foot from Hardangervidda.

The nature surrounding Å Camp has something to offer year-round: hiking or skiing, fishing in the river or moun tain waters, biking or downhill skiing. A local guide is available to show visitors around the local area. But some come simply to enjoy the peace and serenity of nature. “Simplicity is the strength of Å Camp,” says Kolbein.

www.aacamp.no Instagram: @aa_camp Facebook: austbygdaecamp

A sauna with a view of Norway’s idyllic fjords

Finland is historically famed for its saunas, and the same tradition is strong is Sweden. But for some reason, only in the last few years has neighbouring Norway realised the joy of saunas. Not that saunas didn’t exist there before – but they were mostly at gyms and swimming pools. The real Nordic sauna experience – outside in nature, where you can cool down by jumping into cold water – was harder to find.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Heit Sauna

It was in bigger cities, like Oslo, that the Norwegian sauna renaissance began. This might seem ironic for an activity so deeply associated with nature, but the cities on Norway’s enormous, fjord and lake-scattered coastline proved ide al sauna territory. However, though you might find pretty views in Norway’s ur ban saunas, the sounds of the city will always be in the background.

Beautiful and peaceful Luckily there are options for those seek ing true peace and quiet. Heit Sørfjorden

Sauna is nowhere near a city. Its relative ly remote location enjoys beautiful views of Foglefonna National Park across the fjord, and it’s just a short drive from the iconic rock formation Trolltunga. Many hikers finish their day with a session in the sauna and a dip in the fjord.

“Heit Sauna is based on the desire to give people a breather during the day, in com bination with a nature experience,” says Guro Kvalnes, a partner in Heit. “At Heit Sørfjorden Sauna, you are close to the fjord, the mountains and Foglefonna. In

both summer and winter, it offers a great nature experience.”

Heit Sørfjorden Sauna opened in June 2020. It found quick success and expand ed to six Heit Saunas in different loca

Heit Telemark Sauna. Photo: Heit Telemark Sauna

Heit Telemark Sauna.

Photo: Heit Telemark Sauna

tions. Heit means hot and, accordingly, the sauna does indeed get very hot. All saunas are located right by the water’s edge, so you can jump straight from the dry heat into the cooling water.

Experience different locations

Heit Grimo Sauna lies where the Sørfjord meets the Hardangerfjord. Hardanger is known for its apples and a visit to both the Sørfjorden sauna and the Grimo sau na can be combined with a visit to the ar ea’s cider makers.

The Grimo sauna is self-serviced, but will be heated and ready when you arrive. As the sauna is located on a pier, it is pos sible to arrive by boat and moor it there. A sauna session is a great finish to a day of sailing around the surrounding fjords.

It seems that sauna and cider are wellmatched, as Heit Telemark Sauna is lo cated at Lien Farm, another cider pro ducer. It’s important to stay hydrated during and after a sauna, so a local cider should hit the spot. This sauna sits on a floating dock on the Norsjø Lake in the heart of Telemark, surrounded by rolling hills and green pine forests. “In a Heit sauna, you get close to great natural ex periences, all year round,” Kvalnes says.

In Fjæra, at the end of the Åkrafjord, sits a very special sauna. Shaped like a wine barrel on its side, its large circular win dow directly overlooks the fjord and the mountains. There is a glamping site with

showers, changing rooms and a toilet on the same plot, with facilities open for sauna guests.

Urban saunas

Bergen is considered the capital of west ern Norway and is a beautiful city. Heit Bergen Sauna is quite a different expe rience, and not just because of the lo cation. There are two saunas to choose from; one communal and one you can book for yourself. There is also access to changing rooms with showers.

Another urban sauna can be found in the small and charming city of Haugesund on

the North Sea coast. The sauna is woodfired, made in Norway and fully serviced. Haugesund has a lot to offer, from explor ing the waters by boat to biking around the city and surrounding area. A relaxing sauna visit is a great way to end the day.

No matter the weather or the season, it is always a good time for a sauna ses sion. All ages can enjoy the experience, though it’s not recommended for chil dren under 12.

en.heitsauna.com Instagram: @heitsauna Facebook: heitsauna

The saunas comfortably fit small groups. Photo: Heit Sørfjorden Sauna

Heit Bergen Sauna. Photo: Heit Bergen Sauna

Enjoy a bottle of artisan-made apple juice at Heit Telemark Sauna. Photo: Heit Telemark Sauna

Tommy Norum

Up in the air – a higher sense of self

Imagine yourself floating in the air, engulfed by a thriving forest canopy and surrounded by wild animals. The sound of nature awakens a part of you that you thought you’d lost. This is a place where fairytales come to life. This is Treetop Ekne.

By Andri Papanicolas | Photos: Katrine Ingebrigtsen

In a 100-year-old forest in Trøndelag, Norway, is a village unlike any other. It is a treetop village that consists of various cabins, a tipi and hover-tents. The camp has been 14 years in the making and is today visited by people from all around the world.

What makes it so unique is that the mar ried couple Katrine Ingebrigtsen and Johannes Skilbrigt have built the village around nature, instead of altering or in vading it. “A fire, candle lights and the forest gives you peace of mind. It is a spe cial kind of magic,” Katrine says.

The passionate founders of Treetop Ekne have spent many years travelling to the

far corners of the world to learn about new cultures and different ways of life.

“On my travels, the definition of a good place always included a hammock. I love the feeling of hanging up in the air,” she

says. The couple decided to bring that feeling back to Norway, and started to rent out hover-tents in the old forest. This was the beginning of the treetop vil lage in Ekne.

Find the place for you

A hover-tent is a tent that is secured by ropes and suspended a couple of metres up in the air. The ropes are tight and are normally attached to three trees, which makes a triangle shape. There is a hatch on the floor with a ladder to the ground.

At Treetop Ekne, you can rent a hov er-tent and listen to the sounds of nature with a bird’s-eye-view over the forest. You might hear a deer early in the morning, or see the furry squirrels getting on with their day. Johannes and Katrine explain that children find it magical and liberat ing to stay at the treetop village. “Kids love to be here. They run around and play with sticks all day,” Johannes says.

Photo:

If the thought of spending the night hang ing in the air makes you feel dizzy, then ‘the cabin on the hillside’ is an ideal alter native. The cabin is located at the forest’s edge with a stunning view over the Trond heimsfjord. The cabin has panoramic win dows and sleeps six people. And there is of course a place to hang; you can drink your morning coffee in the built-in net hanging off the cliff overlooking the fjord.

If the deep sense of calm lures you to nature, then ‘the cabin in the woods’ is the perfect match for you. Amongst the treetop village, you will find a unique cabin built on poles, three metres up in the air, connected via a suspension bridge to another platform with a fire pit and seating. In the cabin, you will find another fireplace, kitchen and room for three to four people. On the terrace, you can enjoy a quiet morning reading a book in the hanging net.

If you don’t like to hang in the air but simply want to hang out, then Treetop Ekne also offers a glamping tipi. Stay grounded and bring the family together around the bonfire and forested seating circles.

“We are determined to deliver on quality and simplicity. It should be easy to stay here. Our main goal getting into this was to make it as accessible as possible to anyone,” Johannes says. Accommodation at Treetop Ekne can be booked by couples, families, bigger groups and business trips.

What to do and where to find it

In the summer you can spend your days at the lake. You can try SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) and get lessons from Katrine, who is ISA-certified and teaches classes of up to eight people. You can take the boat, fish for trout, and cook them over the fire the same day. Another popular activity is renting a kayak or going hiking. If you’re lucky, in the winter you might see the aurora borealis dancing in the night sky.

The treetop village is located in Ekne, Levanger municipality in Trøndelag county. It’s located just 1.5 kilometres from the E6 (Europe Road), 30 minutes from

Trondheim airport, and five kilometres from the nearest train station, Ronglan. Johannes and Katrine are happy to help you get to the campsite.

“We love what we created, and we love bringing people together and making them feel like a part of the community. It is a great feeling to show people na ture and all the good it brings,” they say. Are you ready for your Norwegian forest fairytale?

www.treetop-ekne.no

Instagram: @treetop_ekne

Facebook: Treetop Ekne

Photo: Katrine Ingebrigtsen

Photo: Thea Munkeby

Discover mountains, fjords and skiing on Norway’s west coast

Nestled in a valley between the two mountains Langedalsegga and Roaldshorn, lies Strandafjellet Ski Resort. Norway is known as a ski nation, and the most well-known ski resorts are in the mountains inland. These slopes, however, are on the west coast of Norway, overlooking the Storfjorden fjord.

By Hanna Margrethe Enger | Photos: Håvard Myklebust

Strandafjellet Ski Resort first opened in 1957. The first ski lift had a capacity of 140 people per hour. “Back then, they were pulled up by a petrol-powered Volkswa gen engine,” says Mari Riksheim, market ing manager. “A lot has happened since then and more will happen in the years to come.” They now have seven lifts serving 21 slopes, and their gondola alone has a capacity of 2,200 skiers per hour.

There are slopes for everyone, from those who have never worn a pair of skis, to professional off-piste skiers. In 2011, Strandafjellet Ski Resort was even named as the best ski resort for off-piste skiing, by Norway’s biggest newspaper, VG

Though it’s a ski resort, there is plenty to do for those who aren’t big fans of skiing; there is a free ice-skating rink, with skates

available for rental, and you can take the gondola up to Roaldshorn for lunch with a panoramic view of the fjord and surround ing mountains.

Strandafjellet Ski Resort is not only a great destination for a family holiday or a ski trip

Enjoy a drink with a view of the fjord.

with friends, but for business-trips, too. Stova 1957, their welcome centre, has a restaurant, bar and lounge with meeting and conference facilities.

Their season usually starts on the first weekend of December, depending on the weather and temperature. This year, they have invested in even more snow making machines, which will give them a longer, more stable season and better slopes on both sides of the mountain.

The 2022/2023 season is looking good, but there are more exciting plans for the future. “We are building 27 new apart ments, some of which will be sold, while others will become part of the ski resort, so that guests can easily rent a cabin, buy a ski pass and book a table in one of our restaurants – all on the same web site,” says Riksheim. “The apartments in Blådalslia will be completed around December 2024.”

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Interior details. Photo: Slettvoll Off-piste skiing over the fjord.

Off-piste skiing in the sunset.

Blådalslia apartments. Photo: Blådalslia.no

PAN Tretopphytter: Award-winning treetop cabins in eastern Norway

In the southern part of Finnskogen, near the Swedish border, the family-run accommodation PAN Tretopphytter has landed on a winning formula: treetop cabins. Combining state-of-the-art design with the best forest surroundings Norway can offer, PAN Tretopphytter offers unique stays in Norweigian nature, attracting visitors from all over the world.

By Rune Nyland | Photo: Even Bardseth

The three cabins provide all the modern amenities travellers could want – be they couples, families or singles, while allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature. “Our visitors love the concept. Many have returned multiple times,” says Christine Mowinckel, who runs the company with her husband Kristian Rostad. The cabins’ beautiful architecture and environmentally-friendly profile have put the company on the map. Since its establishment in 2018, PAN Tretopphytter has won multiple awards.

Attractive activities during all seasons

“We always emphasise being honest and sincere in our communication,” Mowinck el says. “It’s important to provide added value for the visitors in terms of all-yearround activities.” Among the activities are wolf-safaris or ice-fishing in the winter, and ordinary fishing during summer. And there’s plenty to experience in the forest of Finnskogen, alone or with a guide. “Many of our visitors enjoy foraging for berries or mushrooms in their respective seasons,” says Mowinckel.

Tour Norway’s spectacular north

The best way to explore the wild nature of Norway is with the help of an experienced local guide. A leader in the field, the seasoned organisation Vesterålen Tours, takes travellers on extraordinary winter tours of the region, such as the Moose Safari and Northern Lights Tours.

By Maria Vole | Photos: Vesterålen Tours

It’s no secret that Norway has incred ible winter experiences to offer – and some of the most memorable activities can be found in the stunning Vesterålen archipelago. Travellers flock to northern Norway to see the natural phenomenon of the northern lights, and Vesterålen is one of the world’s best destinations for seeing its magical display in the night sky. “We’ve been hunting the northern lights for years, and we’ve learned all the tips and tricks,” says guide and CEO of Vesterålen Tours, Jens Birkeland.

Offering tailor-made private tours, Vesterålen Tours gives you the chance to experience the fascinating nature, landscapes and wildlife of northern

Norway with knowledgeable, enthusi astic guides who take you off the beat en track to lesser-known locations and beautiful spots.

Tours that combine chasing the aurora borealis with exploring the local wildlife, and a moose safari, are especially

Bookings can be made through the website. For those seeking something special for their Christmas or New Year’s celebration, PAN Tretopphytter is an ideal option – and it’s only an hour’s drive from Oslo Gardermoen airport.

www.panhytter.no Instagram: @panhytter Facebook: panhytter

popular in winter. “Seeing wild moose under the light of the moon and the colourful display of the northern lights is a unique experience, and makes for amazing photographs,” Jens says. This is truly a once in a lifetime experience – and preserving the fantastic memories is easy when the guides are also professional photographers who’ll send photos and videos at no cost after the tour.

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Experience a magical winter in Vestfold

With each tree whose crown of branches is laid bare, the days of warmth and light melt into a darker, colder and more mysterious season. In the east of Norway, the winter offers magic like no other. In the archipelago of Vestfold, the drumming hearts of historical towns are alive with entertainment and excitement.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Visit Vestfold

Home to the town and cities of Larvik, Stavern, Sandefjord, Tønsberg, Horten and Holmestrand, the traditional region of Vestfold offers everything from excellent culinary experiences and charming town life to inner peace, soft waves lapping the shore at ‘The World’s End’, and windows into a fascinating history. Whatever you’re looking for, they’ve got it.

“There’s a short distance between each of the towns, but also from the cities to the archipelago and other activity hotspots,” says VisitVestfold’s product man-

ager Trude Schelbred. “Around here, we say that there’s a short distance between hiking boots and high heels!”

Despite the plummeting temperatures, rest assured that Vestfold still has fun, exciting and even romantic experiences up its sleeve. Winter paddling, Viking history and excellent, world-class art is only a taster of the region’s offerings for the Winter season.

Picturesque peace at the World’s End Worry not, Verdens Ende or ‘The World’s End’ is not as far from shore as it sounds. As a part of the Færder National Park, Verdens Ende offers fresh sea air, romantic sunsets and dinner with a view like no other – a picture-perfect date. Even in the winter, you may enjoy hiking and alpaca hiking, or even winter paddling if you’re feeling adventurous. No matter how you choose to spend your time at the archipelago, don’t forget to take a moment to breathe and admire

Coastal trails in Stavern.

Try Norwegian fish soup.

how the sun shines against the water as it disappears below the horizon.

Inspiring the world-renowned Munch

Like many artists before and after his time, Edvard Munch’s art draws inspiration from the places he fell in love with. The small port town of Åsgårdstrand in Vestfold, where he spent many summers, is one of the key inspirations behind several of Munch’s pieces, including The Girls on the Bridge and The Dance of Life. Take a walk along the area’s beautiful walking paths for the chance to look through the eyes of the artist, or simply to enjoy the inspiring coastline. If you’re lucky, you might even catch Andy Warhol’s tribute to Munch at Haugar Art museum – when it’s not on loan.

A window to the past

The Vikings left their cultural imprint on all of Scandinavia, but Vestfold is perhaps one of the primary locations of Viking history. The county boasts several archaeological sites where Viking ships were unearthed, and is the only place in Norway where you can see a real-life Viking ship, while the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo is closed until 2026. For those who truly want a glimpse into the past, the Midgard Viking Centre and the Borre Mound offers activities, food, architecture and the promise of uncovering exciting, Nordic history. Should you find yourself by the Borre Mounds, you’ll also encounter one of the Viking Age’s most important graves: according to Snorre Sturlarson, it is the resting place of the Ynglings, a dynasty of kings that claimed descent from the Norse gods.

Norway’s pantry

If Vikings and art-inspiring scenery isn’t enough, Vestfold also has an excellent food scene. It’s a county of culinary geniuses, boasting excellent chefs, bakers and pastry chefs. Described as ‘Norway’s vegetable garden and pantry’, it’s no surprise that the area prides itself in their traditional, local food. You’ll find restaurants, shops and cafes, many of which offer home-grown and home-made food experiences.

The vast food and activity options make Vestfold and its cities the ideal destination for winter getaways or romantic holidays in anticipation of the brightest and cosiest time of the year.

www.visitvestfold.com

Instagram: @visitvestfold

Facebook: Visit Vestfold

Taking your romantic getaway to Vestfold this season? Make sure to:

Explore the local Christmas markets, such as the one in Karljohansvern

Go for a romantic stroll along the archipelago

See the sunset from the majestic Slottsfjellet in Norway’s oldest town

Enjoy art and sculptures

Visit all the small charming towns within short distance

Explore the Viking trail

Experience hotels with delicious breakfasts and sea views

Midgard Viking Centre. Sculpture Pavillon in Sandefjord. Photo: Nils Kavlie-Borge

The World’s End.

Midgard Viking Centre.

Tønsberg pier.

Sleep among the stars at Hardanger Panorama Lodge

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Based in Hardanger in western Norway, the family-run Hardanger Panorama Lodge is a perfect escape. Stay overnight, 11 metres above ground in their magnificent tree-top huts, with access to excellent local culinary and nature experiences.

By Celina Tran | Photos: Hardanger Panorama Lodge

Most children dream of a tree-top cab in where they can give parents, chores and reality the slip, exchanging them for a little bit of magic and adventure. As grown-ups, escaping our loud urban areas and strict routines and immersing ourselves in a more simple, beautiful and natural environment is just as tempting. Set against the magnificent backdrop of

the Hardangerfjord, a stay at Hardanger Panorama Lodge offers just this.

“I designed and built our tree-top huts myself, while Claudia is responsible for the interiors,” says Arild Opheim, who runs Hardanger Panorama Lodge with his partner, Claudia Saathoff. “A stay here is quite unique, as guests find themselves

224 metres above water. It’s a true nature experience. You’re all alone with the view and the silence. It’s very peaceful.”

Norway’s very own treehouse master?

Opheim explains that it all began in 2016, when he found himself binging Animal Planet’s Treehouse Masters, glued to the television as Treehouse Pete built hut af ter hut. Then, a lightbulb flashed in his head. “I became fixated on the notion of a unique treetop cabin and began playing with the idea,” he says.

It came to fruition two years later in Au gust 2018, when his vision finally stood

A winter getaway in Kongsvinger

In southern Norway, a few kilometres from the Swedish border, the town of Kongsvinger sits inland, on the banks of the country’s longest river. As well the beautiful surrounding nature, Kongsvinger’s rich history and culture make it an ideal destination to explore on a weekend getaway.

By Synne Johnsson | Photos: Visit Kongsvingerregionen

Only a short train ride away from both Oslo and Stockholm, Kongsvinger is easily accessible, but still maintains an authen tic, slow-paced smalltown life, filled with culture and picturesque views.

Manager of Visit Kongsvingerregionen

Ane Ingeborg Sandnæs says: “Kongs vinger is a great city for a weekend trip. We have a rich cultural history here, and you’ll avoid long queues on the cross-country tracks. It’s that perfect balance between city and countryside.”

A city for culture enthusiasts

The city is renowned as the home of Norwegian painter and illustrator Erik Werenskiold (1855-1938), whose histor ic artworks are displayed in Norway’s

National Museum, and the city proudly showcases its connection to the artist. The local Kongsvinger Museum’s ex hibition Hjemland ‘brings Werenskiold home’, with a retrospective of his life and the growth of Kongsvinger city from 1855 until 1905. Hjemland presents 21 paintings that he gave to Kongsvinger towards the end of his life, and traces both his story, and that of the city. “Erik Werenskiold is an important person for Norway’s cultural heritage, but few peo ple know he’s born and raised in Kongs vinger,” reveals Sandnæs.

And Werenskiold is not the only histori cal figure from Kongsvinger. Just around the corner from Kongsvinger Museum, you will find Norway’s only women’s mu

seum, Kvinnemuseet, which is currently running an exhibition on polar explorer Monica Kristensen Solås.

In 1986, Kristensen was the first woman to lead a polar exhibition, when she led the 90-Degrees South expedition, follow ing Roald Amundsen’s route to the South Pole. The exhibition sheds light on three aspects of Kristensen’s career: her role as a scientist, explorer and author, all linked by her fascination with the polar areas. Sandnæs explains: “There is a lot of talk about male heroes in polar history and expeditions, so here we have a female polar explorer and scientist, which is re ally interesting.”

A historical fortress

Overlooking the entire city is the majestic fortress Kongsvinger Festning, one of sev en fortresses in Norway still saluting, and owned by the Norwegian military.

The fortress was built in 1673, when Nor way and Sweden shared a king. When

One can find a range of cross-country tracks nearby, Photo: Kjersti Dybendal

travelling between Oslo and Stockholm, Kongsvinger was the first stop on his jour ney. Resultingly, Kongsvinger might be the city in Norway most visited by kings. The fortress museum offers guided tours of the fortress and the nearby area, filled with history and culture.

For a unique stay, visitors in Kongsvinger can sleep at the fortress hotel, Festning shotellet, in a renovated part of the histor ical building. The rooms are named after historical figures in Kongsvinger, includ ing Erik Werenskiold’s father, Command er Fredrik Werenskiold.

In the oldest building of the fortress, pre viously home to the commanders, is the hotel restaurant, where guests can enjoy a delicious meal in stylish, yet historical surroundings.

For history-buffs, so-called ‘historic din ners’ also take place at the fortress, where guests travel back in time to enjoy a his torically-accurate meal, and are treated to a show featuring historic commanders, with stories, music and songs from the era. Nearby, visitors can also visit Kafé Bohem or Schøyen Grill & Bar, for an at mospheric local dining experience.

A winter getaway weekend

For a lively, cultural weekend in Kongs vinger, the winter festival in February, with concerts and talks featuring famous Norwegian authors and musicians, is a

must-visit. It even includes a sled com petition for kids, down one of the steep est hills in the city.

All year round, the local church organis es classical concerts, called Klang Under Kuppelen, featuring a range of Norway’s leading musicians, including Kongs vinger-born pianist Håvard Gimse.

The area also offers a range of nature experiences, with a number of peaceful cross-country skiing trails close by. For a bit more speed, Norway’s southernmost snow scooter arena is only a short drive away, where visitors can rent a snow

scooter and take on a 54-kilometre-long track.

The nearby forest Finnskogen also offers a range of diversions all year round. In addition to great hiking and walking op portunities, one can take part in guided fishing trips or camping trips with locals, or even high-end picnics. Sandnæs con cludes: “Here, you can experience rich culture, while also getting very close to the local community. It’s very genuine.”

visit.kongsvingerregionen.no Instagram: @visitkongsvingerregionen Facebook: VisitKongsvingerregionen

Kongsvinger is the home city of famous Norwegian painter Erik Werenskiold. Photo: Kongsvinger Museum

One can find a range of cross-country tracks nearby.

Hanging out by the lakeside. A winter morning, Photo: Halvor Gudim

SWEDISHWINTER WONDERLAND

Photo: Per Pixel Peterson - imagebank.sweden.se

A Swedish winter wonderland

In winter, Sweden is a country of incredible diversity. In Stockholm, festive markets fill the city’s historic streets, squares and parks. The Swedish capital is perfect for a winter getaway, with world-class galleries, museums, restaurants and architecture tucked amongst winding waterways and immaculate streets.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: Visit Sweden

Elsewhere, the sprawling Baltic coast line and varied inland landscapes are dotted with winter holiday spots. South ern Sweden is famous for its stunning lakes and national parks, whose beauty has inspired artists for centuries. Trav ellers exploring this region, especially in the depths of winter, will find a wealth of off-the-beaten-track experiences, rich

histories, lively culture scenes and unfor gettable hospitality in its smaller towns and cities.

Explore the far north Swedish Lapland might seem remote, but travellers can reach the Lappish air port Kiruna in just an hour and 40 min utes, via daily flights from Stockholm.

Here in the far north, travellers can retreat to some of the country’s finest lodges, experience the northern lights and silent pine forests, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the Sami peo ple. As well as its arresting wilderness, Lapland boasts fantastic museums and outdoor activities, from ice-fishing and cross-country skiing, to nature pho tography and stargazing.

This December, we present our top desti nations to make the most of the Swedish winter wonderland.

www.visitsweden.com

Discover the winter magic at Tomteland

holm. If you want to extend your stay, the two-day ticket allows for more time at the theme park, while the surrounding area offers plenty of resorts and hotels.

By Silvia Colombo | Photos: Tomteland

The Swedish county of Dalarna is re nowned for its varied landscapes, dom inated by the peak of Mount Gesund. At the mountain’s base lies one of the area’s biggest attractions: Tomteland theme park. Tomteland translates as ‘Santaworld’ – but the park is much more than a conventional Santa’s Village. Here you will find a theme park populated by magic creatures from Nordic folklore, and filled with events and live shows all year round.

“In our 18-hectare park, almost all ex periences take place outdoors, around our magical forest,” says Camilla Collett, Tomtleland’s owner and head of experi ence and marketing. Map in hand, visi tors navigate the park, choosing what to explore from a wealth of exciting options.

A living theatre of folktale characters

Together with family and kids, colleagues or even by yourself, you can explore the

Enchanted Forest, full of fantasy char acters like elves, trolls, and witches, and visit the magic Gnome Village or Troll Kingdom. Or, get into the Christmas spir it with a tour on a horse-and-sled and a visit to Santa and Mrs. Santa’s house. Here, the Santa family welcomes kids at the door, while the elves take care of their Christmas wish-lists.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, you won’t have to go far to find great cuisine. The adjacent restaurant Verkstán serves Swedish specialties, prepared with lo cal ingredients. Plus, during the month of December, diners can enjoy a threecourse meal and a glass of glogg while they watch the popular Christmas show Midvinterblot (‘Midwinter Sacrifice’).

Tomteland is a perfect full-day excur sion, accessible by car, trains and buses. Currently, there is a daily bus connection (called Tomtelandexpressen) from Stock

The adventure park is actively working to reduce food waste and plastic con sumption. For example, no plastic water bottles are sold on site. Instead, a plas tic-free serving of ‘magic water’ is availa ble. For an extra-memorable visit, there’s also the option to take a souvenir home!

www.tomteland.se Instagram: @tomteland.se Facebook: tomteland.se

Experience Sweden’s authentic Christmas spirit by visiting Tomteland, a theme park filled with magic adventures and characters, located in the most enchanting Swedish nature.

Some of the characters populating Tomteland.

The character of Elven at Tomteland.

Santa and Mrs Santa’s house during wintertime.

Joakim Norenius

Arctic art: Sweden’s world-famous Icehotel

Handcrafted each year from ice and snow, Icehotel has rightly earned its reputation as a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience. Museum by day and hotel by night, this national landmark in Sweden’s far north attracts both art enthusiasts and curious travellers from around the world. This year, the 33rd edition of Icehotel will open on 16 December.

By Emma Rodin

The frosty marvel is the brainchild of Yngve Bergqvist, an entrepreneur who founded Icehotel in the 1980s in a bid to showcase the village of Jukkasjärvi dur ing the dark winter months.

Bergqvist invited two Japanese artists to create the first edition of the Artic hall which has today become a recur

ring feature of the hotel, known as the Ceremony Hall.

33 editions and counting Wondrous in more ways than one, Icehotel is unlike any other hotel. Each year, the hotel is hand-sculpted out of massive blocks of ice from the Torne River. The hotel, which takes on slightly different

shapes each year, is now a top attraction for tourists from around the world and has even been included in TIME’s World’s Greatest Places.

“Creative souls from all over the world can apply to be a part of designing and forming Icehotel. By tradition, the making of the winter hotel is an art forum, where the 40-45 selected suite designers, from all over the world, gather in Jukkasjärvi to use ice and snow as the canvas for their art. Each art suite is an installation –an original piece of art that melts and returns to mother nature in the spring,” says Icehotel CEO Marie Herrey.

Photo:

Stay cool all year round

There is also Icehotel 365, the first per manent snow and ice hotel to offer ice ex periences all year-round, even in summer. This addition features Icebar by Icehotel, Art and Deluxe Suites with heated bath rooms, plus renowned food offerings. At the restaurant, for example, guests can try the Ice Menu, where two of the dishes are served on plates of ice.

During winter, Icehotel Verandan (The Ve randa) will also open. Here, guests can sit at the Chef’s Table, a communal U-shaped table where the chefs cook a 12-course menu brought out in eight servings, as in spired by the eight Sámi seasons.

On the banks of Torne River sits a third restaurant, the cosy and traditional Hempy (The Old Homestead), which dates to 1768. It offers a casual menu of local produce and Lappish pizza, to be enjoyed on the veranda or by the open fire. Visitors can also book a Wilderness Dinner with a three-course meal inspired by the current season, cooked in the woodlands.

Get ready to explore

Other than soaking up the wonders of Icehotel, there is plenty of fun to be had around the area. A winter-lover’s dream, Jukkasjärvi itself turns into a frozen paradise for half the year and Icehotel guests can embark on adven tures including ice fishing, ice sculpting, ancient sauna rituals, or go on snow mobile tours to spot the northern lights from the vast, dark forests of the region. “We can even arrange to pick up guests from the airport with dog sleds, which

is something most people haven’t tried before,” says Herrey.

For those visiting in summer, there are fishing, world-class hiking, white-water rafting and forest dining experiences on offer.

Tie the knot

Icehotel offers numerous diverse package deals, including wedding packages. In deed, if you are getting married, you can hold the ceremony in the Ceremony Hall. “This is ideal for those who want a fairy tale wedding that you’d never imagine was possible,” explains Herrey. There is also the option of tying the knot on a secluded nearby island under the northern lights, or in the local historical church.

A new design aspect of Icehotel this year is a collaboration between father and son artists Robert Harding and Timsam

Harding. The duo has created a suite named Enclosed Space. Intrigued? Plan your visit to Icehotel to feed your curi osity and enjoy an Artic adventure out of the ordinary. www.icehotel.com Instagram: @icehotelsweden Facebook: icehotel.sweden

Design: Shingo Saito & Natsuki

Saito. Photo: Asaf Kliger

Design: AnnaKatrin Kraus & Hans Aescht. Photo: Asaf Kliger

Photo: Asaf Kliger

Photo: Asaf Kliger

A ski resort fit for royals

Kungsberget, Swedish for King’s Mountain, is a ski resort that will meet your skiing needs several times over. And, at just forty minutes from Gävle and two hours’ drive from Stockholm, this is one of the most accessible ski-getaways in the country.

By John Sempill | Photos: Branäsgruppen

Kungsberget’s first slope is almost a century old. In the 1930s, a man named Johan Larsson embarked on a lone mis sion, cutting down trees and preparing the slope by foot, for his own skiing pleasure. That slope is still part of the resort and is fittingly named Johans Backe, Swed ish for Johan’s Slope. “His daughter still skis at Kungsberget and she is 82!” says Mikael Elford, head of sales and market ing at Branäsgruppen, the group that runs

Kungsberget. “She keeps telling us each year it’s time to stop, but then says, ‘one more year’. She is a true ambassador.”

The slope grew with the installation of the first lifts in the 1970s during the In gemar Stenmark wave, when the famous World Cup Alpine skier stole the hearts of the Swedes – and the rest of the world. Kungsberget was run by the local com munity until 2007, when it was acquired

by Branäsgruppen, who turned it into a modern ski resort. It received a total makeover with several slopes for every one from beginners to experts, almost 3,500 beds, a supermarket, four restau rants and an eight-seat express lift. If that isn’t enough for your Instagram sto ries, we don’t know what is!

Slopes for every level

The resort is open from December to Easter and has something to offer all ages. “Our resort is perfect for families. We have something for beginners, but we also have great black pistes for those looking for a challenge. All the slopes land in the same area and the centre is

Kungsberget from the sky.

relatively small where all the slopes join –it’s basically impossible to lose one another,” says Elford.

This gives a sense of closeness and security – ski on your own terms and meet up at the bottom and stay together, no matter the slope or time of day. “This is perfect for the family because you won’t end up in another village altogether,” adds Elford. “I was skiing abroad once and this happened to me!”

Swift and smooth rental service

Do you remember the long queues for the ski rental area? Thankfully, they are only bad memories now. At Kungsberget, you won’t need to waste a minute standing in line for a set of skis. “Our ski rental service is run through a prebooking system,” Elford explains. “You prebook and simply pick up your gear – it’s not like in the old days when you would queue all morning. This system doesn’t take longer than putting on a pair of skiing boots. It’s all done on your phone beforehand, so you can spend more time on the slopes. We don’t want our visitors queuing, we want them to enjoy their time skiing or eating at our restaurants.”

Après-ski, done right

Speaking of restaurants, Kungsberget’s dining spots have seen a complete over haul in order to offer the best food and service. The culinary delights at the four

restaurants make the perfect complement to a weekend getaway with the family, or business trip. “We have a new restaurant manager with several years’ experience, and the kitchen and seating areas have been totally redone,” says Elford.

After the food comes après-ski revelry. “It starts with a show for the kids with our mascots, Björnbusarna,” Elford says. “They sing and dance for our youngest guests, and later, the après-ski starts for our adult guests.” Plus, depending where you stay, you can unwind in a gym, sauna and brand-new spa.

When it’s time to head back to your cabin, you might be lucky enough to see the Northern lights or spot a trail of footprints from the Swedish wildlife. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you might enjoy

seeing a star or two; rumour has it that the crown princess and her family often ski here. “We do have a lot of celebrities here, simply because we are not that far from Stockholm,” says Elford. “It’s become sort of a celebrity spot.”

But most important is Kungsberget’s service and facilities – where the focus is on making your stay as smooth as possible. “The time between checking in and getting onto the slopes is easy and quick,” says Elford. “And all the living areas are right by the slopes. You never need to get in your car, everything is a stone’s throw away. Time is expensive today – let’s stop wasting it!”

www.kungsberget.se Instagram: @kungsbergetskidort Facebook: Kungsberget

A chairlift with room for eight will bring you and your family to the top.

A weekend getaway with the family.

Ski and stay in one of Sweden’s best-connected mountain resorts

Åre was voted Sweden’s best ski destination last year. The area is neatly nestled in a valley that stretches to the Norwegian border, where 89 pistes surround a woodenclad village. This is a down-to-earth destination, drawing skiers from all over the world – and Holiday Club Åre is at the centre.

By Xander Brett | Photos: Holiday Club Åre

Swedes have been flocking to this corner of Jämtland county since the late 1800s, making use of plentiful downhill and cross-country trails. Satu Andersson, CEO of Holiday Camp Åre, calls the resort ‘Sweden’s answer to the Alps’, and is quick to identify what sets it apart from popular resorts further south. “Firstly, our season is much longer,” she says. “Åre is also more accessible than many resorts in the Alps. You can fly to Östersund or Trondheim – both are just one to two hours’ drive away – or take the direct train from Stockholm, and via connections from other stations.”

Certainly, convenience sets the town apart –though you wouldn’t guess from its re mote location, slap bang in the central Swedish wilderness where elk run free,

between mountains and the vast Åresjön Lake. Here, the lake freezes over in win ter, creating a runway for snow planes.

As well as skiing, Andersson is keen to point out activities away from the slopes. These include skating and sledding, as well as entertainment offered by the busi ness itself: a pool, spa and in- and out door gyms. Meanwhile, Holiday Club Åre has just opened a new restaurant, serving traditional food and pizzas to eat in or take away. It’ll complement the already popu lar bar, and will form the centrepiece of Christmas celebrations this year, which will include the presentation of traditional Swedish seasonal dishes, called ‘Julbord’.

Christmas is a joyous time to visit, and the resort is open throughout the fes-

tive period. The business forms part of a Holiday Club network that now spreads across various locations. At the Åre base, however, guests are given a choice between elegantly fitted rooms, suites or apartments. The rooms, totalling 250, include panoramic seating areas, while jacuzzies and saunas are shared across the suites. Ski lifts are within walking distance, and there’s a large area for free parking on site. But why miss the chance for a magical snowy arrival by train?

www.holidayclubresorts.com/en/ resorts/are/

The Swedish Arctic skiing experience

Way up north in Sweden, close to the Norwegian border, you’ll find Riksgränsen Ski Resort, Björkliden Ski Resort and the cabin station Låktatjåkko. The three locations, owned by Lapland Resorts, offer unrivalled experiences for those keen to enjoy skiing in the Arctic.

By Alejandra Cerda Ojensa

The high season at Lapland Resorts runs from February to May and, nestled in an area of metre-deep snow, its venues are idyllic alternatives for skiing enthusiasts looking to elongate the season.

“Coming to our resorts is a unique experience. You’re surrounded by snow-covered mountains and a stillness that is unusual to find at ski resorts. It’s truly breathtaking,” says Lapland Resorts’ marketing director Christophe Risenius.

Each of the three locations offers some thing different. While Björkliden is a family-friendly resort with a children’s skiing school and other kids’ activities, Riksgränsen offers advanced ski slopes for the experienced skier, and a more exclusive hotel experience, with a lim ited number of rooms ideal for small groups or those seeking a more private stay. Finally, the mountain station Låk tatjåkko offers a more intimate expe

rience, with its unique feeling of being enclosed in nature.

If you have a hard time deciding which location to visit, no need to worry: Lapland Resorts offers access to all three locations. With a short bus ride between Riksgränsen, Låktatjåkko and Björkliden, you can easily experience the different atmospheres.

“The experience at our Låktatjåkko lodge is absolutely magical. It’s the highest-located lodge in Sweden and the snowy mountains surrounding you give you the feeling of being alone in the world. It’s truly something one has to experience to understand,” says Risenius.

From the slopes to the spa

For those up for a snowy activity, there are plenty to choose from. Apart from skiing, you can go on a guided snowmobile tour, hire a personal ski guide, or even reserve

the Rakkas chalet and enjoy a traditional three-course dinner cooked on an open fire by a private chef. If you’re keen to relax after a day on the mountain, Riksgränsen’s spa and sauna is a must-visit. Enjoy a swim in the pool, a soothing massage, or a facial treatment with organic products from northern Sweden.

Wherever you’re travelling from, Riksgränsen and Björkliden are easy to access by train, flight and car. The mountain retreats are happy to host adventure-seekers or those keen to enjoy the Arctic experience in the unique nature of the Swedish mountains.

www.laplandresorts.se

Instagram: @bjorkliden_fjallby @riksgransen.se

Facebook: bjorkliden.fjallby riksgransen

Riksgränsen gives you the Arctic experience.

Photo: Axel Adolfsson

The ski course for children at Björkliden. Photo: Emma Svensson

A three-course dinner with a private chef at Låktatjåkko cabin lodge. Photo: Gustaf Adolfsson

The cabin lodge Låktatjåkko, surrounded by magical nature. Photo: Gustaf Adolfsson

Find peace in Swedish nature at this idyllic northern eco-retreat

The eco-destination Granö Beckasin lies in the heart of one of northern Sweden’s last remaining wild areas. This place will fill your senses, while the body and soul find rest in nature’s silence.

By Lotta Lassesson | Photos: Bea Holmberg

Founded by a group of good friends, Granö Beckasin is a premium ecological destination for nature tourism. Located on a hill by the beautiful Ume River, the retreat allows visitors to feel as free as a bird and unplug from daily noise in pris tine nature, while sustainably supporting the thriving local community.

“The vision is to create conditions for en trepreneurship, build a community and recreate the natural meeting place as it was intended. In the 15th century, this was a natural meeting place for markets and cultures, where surrounding munic ipalities exchanged goods and social ised,” explains one of the chairs of Granö Beckasin, Annika Rydman.

The property, a former camping ground, offers 27 rooms, including six luxury

Birds’ Nests – treetop accomodation from which guests can experience a birds-eye-view. On ground level, there are hotel cottages, as well as rooms at the new eco hotel.

According to Rydman, the area has eight seasons, “so you’ll always find a reason to visit.” The wealth of outdoor activities on offer at Granö Beckasin include hik ing or skiing in the forests, enjoying the mighty Northern Lights in the winter sky, and floating down the Ume River at a lei surely pace on a timber raft that you have built yourself.

You can also try an adventurous journey by dog sled, learn more about nature’s medicinal plants on site, or treat your self with a sauna and a hot tub under the stars after a long day exploring the

beauty of the area. Glashuset (The Glass house) offers yoga and meditation ses sions with an incomparable view of the river and the forests.

After a restorative day in nature, warm up by the fire at Granö Beckasin’s cosy restaurant overlooking the river, and enjoy a thoughtful menu of seasonal or ganic dishes, made with locally-grown ingredients. For an even more off-grid experience, the restaurant puts on his torical dinner events where candles are the only light source, and the special history of the eight-course dinner is ex plained.

“We welcome bookings for romantic weekends, adventure and experience packages, company meetings and wed dings all year round,” says Rydman. “We want to share the beauty of the unique landscape, forests, river and wild ani mals, and give people from all over the world a glimpse of our simple way of life.”

www.granobeckasin.com

Lofsdalen, a small ski village with a big heart

For fantastic downhill and cross-country skiing, you’d do well to head to Lofsdalen. This charming village offers comfy accommodation, great outdoor activities right on its doorstep, and a genuine mountain atmosphere for the ultimate ski trip.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Anette Andersson

Lofsdalen is located in the south of Härjedalen, less than six hours’ drive from Stockholm. Here, you can expe rience world-class downhill skiing on some of the steepest slopes in Sweden, well-prepared cross-country skiing and snowmobile tracks in the wilderness, as well as an authentic and cosy moun tain-village atmosphere.

“The wilderness is omnipresent, and un forgettable skiing is right on your door step,” promises Lotta Anestedt, CEO of Destination Lofsdalen. She emphasises

the importance of a warm and personal welcome for all visitors. “Lofsdalen is a small village with only 180 locals, which contributes to the peaceful and genuine

atmosphere. It’s something of a hidden gem – a small village with fabulous ski ing, but also a big heart.”

World-class skiing and exciting activities

Lofsdalen is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and is a reliable ski resort with 25 slopes for all levels of downhill skiers, including one of Sweden’s steepest pistes, Rännan (42 degrees inclination) for those who dare to try – and there are great op portunities for off-piste skiing too.

Lofsdalen also attracts cross-country skiers from all over Europe, with over 122 kilometres of well-maintained tracks across the mountain and through the deep forests. The tracks are suitable for both the elite and for leisure skiers who just want to experience the fresh moun

tain air. The area is also a snowmobile paradise, with some 150 kilometres of prepared tracks.

In summer, Lofsdalen tempts visitors with activities such as hiking above the tree line, fishing for trout in lake Lofssjön, and cloudberry picking in the wetlands. The landscape is suitable for trail running too and, for keen bikers, Lofsdalen has one of the country’s best downhill bike parks. In the newly developed Lofsdalen Fjällpark MTB, easily accessible with the lift Lången Express, the whole family can enjoy nu merous bike trails on the mountain with nothing but fabulous views.

Spectacular sky bar with whisky tastings

The resort offers something quite spec tacular at the top of the mountain: Lofs

dalen Skybar. On the cliff-edge of the peak, 1,125 metres above sea level, sits a restaurant and bar with 360-degree views of the Norwegian mountains, the national park Sonfjället, and the Swedish mountain Helags. From up here, the pan orama reveals untouched wilderness as far as the eye can see.

But Skybar is more than just a treat for the eyes, with excellent cuisine and an impressive range of whisky in collab oration with Mackmyra, the renowned Swedish single malt whisky distillery. Groups of at least six people can book a private whisky tasting, and down in Lofs dalen village, there is a wide range of op tions for hungry and thirsty visitors after a day enjoying the outdoors.

The singing and dancing blue bear cub Lofsdalen is the perfect destination for families with children, with lots of space for fun and play. Many ski slopes are kid-friendly and ski instructors attend the lifts in Snölandet and Loffeliften so the little ones can get tips and help. In the dedicated children’s area, they can play among witches and fun figures on the slopes. After a day outside, the fam ily-friendly activity house awaits with an indoor play area, bowling and shuffle board, as well as a restaurant.

Lofsdalen’s very own mascot Loffe also entertains on the slopes. This blue bear cub is a charming mix of kind and mis chievous. But why is Loffe blue? Well, he was born in a bear’s den close to the mountain Hovärken on a cold and icy

night. Like other bear cubs, Loffe was brown and furry at first, but he loved blueberries and couldn’t stop eating them, and eventually turned blue from top to toe. Also, he perked up so much from eating blueberries that he didn’t want to hibernate in winter. That’s why, while other bears are sleeping, Loffe is out playing with the kids in Lofsdalen.

www.lofsdalen.com Instagram: @lofsdalen_ Facebook: lofsdalen

Accommodation at Lofsdalen, examples per week:

Budget (Lofsens Fjällby) from SEK 7,030 Standard (Fjällterrassen) from SEK 8,535

Premium (Utsikten M, 4 bäddar) from SEK 12,360 (price for 1 week including 2 adults, 2 children under 8 years, plus 6-day ski pass)

Bookings via Destination Lofsdalen on lofsdalen.com.

A heritage like no other: Laponia’s Saami culture and majestic wilderness

There are a total of 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, and Laponia in northern Sweden is one of them. It was recognised in 1996 for its natural wonders and local Saami cultural heritage, and the designation allows it to be protected and preserved for future generations to come, making it the ultimate destination for a remarkable winter experience.

By Nina Bressler | Photos: Carl-Johan Utsi / Laponiatjuottjudus

The snowfall begins around October and doesn’t thaw until May, leaving many months for winter enthusiasts to discov er the full extent of this region. The land scape is astounding, consisting of high mountain peaks, deep valleys, winding rivers and primeval forests – a rare ele ment not just in Sweden, but anywhere in the world. There are nature reserves and four national parks in the region, with walking trails for the experienced as well as the inexperienced nature lover. Natu rum, a visitors’ centre focusing on the nature and traditions in Laponia, is the perfect gateway into the area.

The Saami culture permeates the land scape, and their traditions are kept alive by Saami communities living there today.

Reindeer play a prominent role in their everyday life, both as a cultural focus and as a way of maintaining the unique nature. In the regional administration of Laponia, the Saami community has a prominent seat at the table, meaning that the rights of the indigenous people are distinctly preserved and never over looked by an external governing body.

“We believe that there is an intrinsic connection between nature, human and animals. The landscape is a breathing, living thing, as animated as the crea tures inhabiting it. We work tirelessly to preserve this unique area and to help people access it in better ways,” says Åsa Nordin, head of the Laponia organi sation, Laponiatjuottjudus.

Head of communications Carl-Johan Utsi continues: “The untouched nature, the stillness inside a forest thousands of years old, the silence of a snow-cov ered landscape while the northern lights gleam above your head – it is some thing you need to experience first-hand. Whether delving into it on your own or with an experienced guide at hand, the experience of Laponia is one that will stay with you forever.”

www.laponia.nu

Instagram: @laponiatjuottjudus

Reindeer gathering. The living Saami culture is very important in Laponia World Heritage.

Cihkkumjohka in Sjaunja, Baste cearru, northern part of Laponia World Heritage.

Skoarkki, some of the mighty mountains of Laponia World Heritage.

Niják, the characteristic west peak of Sarek, seen from Guvtjávrre.

FINNISHARTAND HANDCRAFTMiniTheme:

Artstore.fi: an oasis of distinctive art and interior-design

Whether you’re looking for a painting to add ambience to your walls, a distinctive Nordic-design chair or modern desk, or a sleek Finnish pendant lamp, the web shop Artstore.fi is the ideal hunting ground. Founded in Finland, Artstore.fi combines art with interior design in one shop, offering unique pieces that create cosy and complete living spaces.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Artstore.fi

The name Artstore.fi stems from the company’s mission to offer artistic inte rior design in a responsible and ethical manner, while working in close collab oration with individual artists. When a product is bought in the web shop, it is shipped directly from the producer to the buyer.

Susanna Blomgren, the creative direc tor of Artstore.fi, is a trained interior

designer. She worked for many years in the furniture industry, but dreamed of opening her own web shop with a sus tainable and practical purchasing pro cess, that would allow buyers to deco rate their homes with artful items that would outlive changing trends. She also wanted to empower people to decorate their own living spaces. “I select the products that we sell, with a focus on lo cal items. But the main guideline is that

goods are responsibly made, either by or in collaboration with artists, design ers, or craftsmen. Most of our lines are made in small batches,” Blomgren ex plains. “We want people to feel it’s okay to be unique. There is no need to follow trends that come and go. We want to en courage them to decorate their homes for themselves.”

The influence of Finnish design Finnish, as well as Nordic design, is a strong source of inspiration for Art store.fi. “Finnish design is globally pop ular because of its timelessness,” says Blomgren. “The most inspiring aspect for us is its use of natural materials. Sus tainability and responsibility have always guided Nordic design.”

Kaihe Black Sigh - Huokaus.

The company carries many Finnish brands, from large established names to smaller, more niche labels that custom ers might be seeing for the first time. Rather than the familiar, the company tries to focus on those that share their mission and vision. In fact, Artstore.fi has been granted the Key Flag certifi cation for its Finnish customer service, and the Design from Finland certifica tion, both of which signify a deep care for and promotion of manufacturing and design from Finland.

Besides the web shop, the company also has a small showroom in the city of Mäntsälä, about an hour from Helsinki. The showroom is open mainly by appoint ment, but customers are always welcome to visit when Blomgren is there working. Currently Artstore.fi’s focus is establish ing their market in Finland, but its sights are set on future growth into the wider Nordics and other parts of Europe.

A collection of singular pieces

In addition to rare European and Scandi navian brands, Artstore.fi carries Finnish brands such as Pauliina Rundgren Hand icrafts, JP Studiokeramiikka, Sukarwood, Kaihe made to order wall textiles, and glass artist Tiia Tirronen’s products. They have also just launched their new Eternity Art Prints collection, based on the original works of eight Finnish artists. Artstore.

fi is also collaborating with Finnish paint factory Uula Color to create a collection of colours. Some of their most popular products include the Sukarwood lamps, handmade ceramicware and wallpaper by Pihlgren & Ritola, while paintings and artwork are also highly sought-after. “I love the innovation of the Sukarwood lamps,” says Blomgren. “They are sus tainably and self-sufficiently made, using very little energy.”

A platform for emerging designers

While there are numerous design shops in Finland, finding a web shop that incorporates so many different home interiors along with art is unusual. Artstore.fi actively seeks out independent manufacturers, designers and artists to diversify their collection, and encourages collaboration with design partners.

On the website, potential partners – hobbyists and industry professionals alike –can submit a portfolio of their work or retail collection for consideration.

For emerging brands looking to gain a stronger foothold in their market, Artstore.fi can act as a dealer and an ideal platform from which to build a name.

With an impressive range of artful products, Artstore.fi is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind designs to elevate your home interior.

www.artstore.fi

Instagram: @artstore.fi

Facebook: Artstore.fi

Pinterest: @artstoreofficial

YouTube: Artstore Official

Creative director Susanna Blomgren.

Mouthblown glass vases in sandblasted texture by Tiia Tirronen.

Phenomenon and a Strange Plant, and Memories of Africa, by Seija Kajalo.

The Golden Shine in a Pile of Twigs by Atelier Blomgrens.

A modern Finnish artisan keeping tradition alive

By Philip Denvir | Photos: Ateljee Hulmi

Ateljee Hulmi is located in an 1888 brickbuilt farmstead in the picturesque town of Loimaa, south-western Finland. In 1987, the steading was converted by renowned architect Antti Pirhonen into studio spaces. Today, it’s also home to the headquarters of the Loimaa-Seura preservation society.

Elina Haukka is the owner of Ateljee Hulmi, master craftsperson and artist-in-residence. “Our mission is to create and promote art as it reflects nature, bringing it to more people,” she explains. “My designs use Finnish stones as well as silver and bronze. Everything is handmade or by casting. I take inspiration from my surroundings; the river gives so much, as does the granite.”

Among the glittering array of gemstones to be found are amethyst, jasper and smoky quartz. “One of my favourites is smoky quartz – there are holes in the granite that can be filled with smoky quartz crystals,” says Haukaa.

Particularly masterful is the award winning collection of silver jewellery inspired by the river. “It represents our river Loimijoki and the way it flows from its source in Sieppala to the falls of Hirvikoski. A lot of my inspiration also comes from trees and leaves. I love their infinite uniqueness,” says Haukka.

Ateljee Hulmi also takes private commissions as well as offering stone polishing. Visitors are always welcome to observe the artistic process. Beyond its focus on jewellery, the company represents a di-

verse community for art and culture. The Ateljee Hulmi Art Loan Company is a key part of the studio. It features Finnish artists, including Outi Heiskanen, Katja Hannula and Klaus Kopu.

However, perhaps among the best known is Alpo Jaakola, a prominent member of the Finnish surrealism movement. Jaakola is also known as the Shaman of Loimaa and many of his humorist sculptures can be found in the nearby Alpo Jaakola Statuary Park.

The gallery regularly updates exhibitions and works are available for sale as well as loan. “We warmly welcome everyone interested in art and design inspired by nature,” concludes Haukka. Ateljee Hulmi is a true house of art – worth a visit whether you are an enthusiast or a collector, or perhaps both!

www.ateljeehulmi.fi Instagram: @ateljeehulmi Facebook: ateljeehulmi Contact: hulmiateljee@gmail.com

Address: Hulmintie 8, 32200 Loimaa, Finland tel: +358 40 867 2624

The charming Ateljee Hulmi is a space for artists, goldsmiths and sculptors who use organic materials and traditional crafts, open for the public to enjoy.

Silver bracelet from the River series.

Elina Haukka at work.

Christmas time at Ateljee Hulmi. Alpo Jaakola, LADY

Jewellery as an artform: An intricate decoration for the body

Meira Rauta is a Helsinki-based jewellery designer who is fascinated by the smooth and sleek geometry in traditional jewellery-making. Her designs explore the constant dialogue that she sees between miniature sculpture and jewellery.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Meira Rauta

Meira Rauta stumbled upon jewel lery-making by accident. “I never thought I’d become a jewellery maker and artist, but as soon as I discovered it, I knew it was my thing. And so a jewellery maker and artist is what I became, and it’s what I’ve been doing since 2008,” she explains.

One of Rauta’s jewellery series, titled ‘Portti22’, was selected as one of ten fi nalists in the ‘Jewellery of the Year 2022 in Finland’ competition. The collection’s timeless designs are simplistic yet ele gant, and beautifully geometric. The ear rings can be worn individually, or attached to pendant parts. They can also be placed on a chain and worn as a necklace.

Rauta’s jewellery draws inspiration from Finland’s nature, sometimes utilising wood and other natural items and ma terials. She often begins new projects by simply touching the materials. “By rolling

the materials in my hands, I get a feel for them, and an idea of the jewellery starts to form in my mind. I’m fascinated by con trasts and different shapes,” Rauta says.

She finds herself repeatedly returning to the dialogue between jewellery and miniature sculpture; she is drawn to the idea that jewellery can serve as a beauti ful, decorative object when it is not being worn. Take, for example, her work ‘Aloe’, which was a turning point in her career. “I quickly realised that the concept of art jewellery is extremely broad. My work in ‘Aloe’ does not fit into the traditional mould of jewellery. Instead, it’s more like an intricate work of art.” Rauta’s jewellery will be on display in an exhibition in Hel sinki’s Winter Garden next year.

In her ice jewellery series, she wanted to explore fleeting art, which can only be worn and enjoyed for a moment. Making

the jewellery requires that the outside temperature drops to around minus-20 degrees centigrade. “I wanted to create jewellery that would be simultaneously big, delicate and showy,” she explains.

“All my jewellery designs have been made with a deep love and respect for my craft,” she concludes.

www.meirarauta.fi

Instagram: @meirarauta_jewelry

Forged and patinated copper. The unique piece includes a sculptural necklace and earrings. Photo: nnpelto

The silver Portti22 earrings belong to the jewellery series with which Meira Rauta participated in the Jewellery of the Year 2022 competition. The jewellery made it to the top ten finalists. The earrings can be worn as individual stud earrings, or a pendant attachment can be added to both studs, or just one. The pendant part can also be put on a chain and worn as a necklace.

The sculpturally elegant Two Worlds silver ring is designed to emphasise the beauty of the stone, made from a copper-ceramic mixture. The ring sits comfortably between two fingers.

Restaurant of the Month, Sweden

Playful craftsmanship at an award-winning Stockholm restaurant

Delicious creative takes on classic food, an intimate but lively setting and an attentive team: these are the building blocks for the 2019 Gulddraken-winning restaurant Hantverket in central Stockholm, where dining is about more than just the food.

By Hanna Andersson

“Our goal is for our menu to feel inclusive, sympathetic and delicious. One of the best compliments we get is ‘I can’t decide what to choose, it all looks so good’,” says Stefan Ekengren, partner and head chef.

Restaurant Hantverket is spacious and welcoming, with an open kitchen and a joyous team that take care of you from the moment you enter. During service, the chefs, waitstaff and management team move around, getting to know guests and making sure that everyone is having a good time.

“We want to create an exciting and dy namic dining room that feels grand but also intimate. The way the restaurant is designed makes it possible to have in timate conversations without missing a word whilst there’s a birthday party go ing on just metres away. Family dinners, business meetings and parties can all

coexist in this space, which makes it in credibly fun,” says Ekengren.

In the moment

The menu consists of a wide range of dishes, inspired by Swedish comfort food and ingredients. Signature dishes include crispy Hasselback potatoes with bleak roe, smetana (sour cream) and spring onion; green tomato soup; and beef tartar with Jerusalem artichoke, gruyère cheese and hazelnuts.

“Our food is playful and exciting with focus on Scandinavian flavours and elements of southern Europe. Our main objective is to provide food that creates a moment – it lets you enjoy the ‘here and now’. Guests should feel: ‘I am here, at Hantverket’,” explains Ekengren.

The craft

Hantverket, which in Swedish simply means ‘Craftsmanship’, was opened in

2016 by Torbjörn Blomqvist, owner of Stockholm Meeting Selection, who is himself a craftsman. He designed and built the restaurant to feel big, warm and genuine.

Ekengren joined in 2017 and has there after helped establish the menu and the concept. “We’ve been doing really well. We have a well-thought-out concept, a team that loves working together, a great dining room and great recipes,” he says. “Our focus is not only on the food, but also on the overall experience where service, food and ambiance all come to gether to create a great restaurant.”

www.restauranghantverket.se

Instagram: @restauranghantverket

Facebook: Restaurang Hantverket

Photo: Hantverket

Stefan-Ekengren. Photo: Hantverket

Photo: Patrik-Johansson

Photo: Thomas-Wingstedt

Campo de’ Fiori is a wine bar and kitchen.

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

An Italian delicacy in the heart of Oslo

Just a few years ago, getting a decent Italian meal anywhere north of the Alps was difficult. However, in Scandinavia, it was impossible. An Italian dinner in Oslo was often little more than a few overcooked strands of spaghetti in bleak tomato sauce, accompanied by an endless flow of Italian love songs from a bygone era on the loudspeaker, from the first mouthful of antipasto until the tiramisu was long gone.

By Eva-Kristin U. Pedersen | Photos: Dario Polverari

Fortunately, that era is over. These days, all you need to do is to head to Homanns byen, and down Josefines Street; and find your way to Campo de’ Fiori – the Oslo edition.

While there’s no portrait of Giordano Bru no looking down on you, there are plenty of other elements that guarantee an au thentic Italian experience at their tables.

One such guarantee is the food; Campo de’ Fiori is not only Italian, it is Roman.

Food with Roman roots

“Everything we serve has Roman roots,” says Fabio Pezzoli, the owner and a Ro man himself. The kitchen is helmed by head chefs Francesco Oberto, a former recipient of a Michelin Star in Italy, and Fabio Pezzoli, who was awarded two

‘forks’ by the food and wine magazine Gambero Rosso, for Top Italian Restau rant, 2022. They only serve the very best, from the traditional sauce ‘amatriciana’ and cured pork-cheek ‘gricia’, to ‘coda alla vaccinara’ – oxtail and vegetable stew.

At Campo you will get first and second courses made with top quality ingredients and Italian cook ing know-how.

Other typical dishes on the menu are the homemade ravioli and a variety of main courses. All the pasta and main dishes vary according to the season. “We always make sure to have seasonal ingredients of the best possible quality, and that means that our menu changes a great deal,” Pezzoli underlines.

In addition to traditional Italian dishes, however, Pezzoli makes the best possi ble use of whatever ingredients Norway can offer, prepared in an Italian manner. That’s why, this autumn, guests at Campo de’ Fiori could enjoy an absolutely unique venison risotto. “A friend of mine procured the fresh venison for me, and we made a risotto out of it. It was absolutely deli cious,” Pezzoli says with a smile.

A wine bar and kitchen

As a sommelier, Pezzoli also pays a lot of attention to his wine menu. “Campo de’ Fiori’s full name is Campo de’ Fiori Eno teca e Cucina,” Pezzoli says. Accordingly, the wine cellar is extensive, based mostly on Italian producers, but also offering ex cellent French wines.

“We have a lot of wines from regions that Norwegians know well, like Piemonte and Tuscany, but we also make sure to introduce our clients to other regions,

like the Marche and Sicily, and lately also Lazio,” Pezzoli elaborates. The wine-pro ducing region around Rome has stepped up in recent years, with wines of marked ly higher quality – something restaurant owners both in Italy and abroad are keen to take advantage of.

A winning atmosphere

But perhaps what makes this an authen tic Italian restaurant, even more than the food and wine, is the atmosphere. Whatever you chose to eat, you’ll do so in Campo de’ Fiori’s warm and welcoming surroundings, which present Italian style without any of its clichés. There are no wall paintings of the Colosseum or the Roman Forum; instead, the walls are decorated with top-notch photos by the renowned photographer Dusan Reljin.

Most of the staff are Italian, many of them Roman, and they’ve recreated the joyfulness that Italian eateries are known for. Go for dinner at Campo de’ Fiori and you’ll feel as if you’ve been out with a very large family.

“The other night some girls started sing ing. They didn’t really know the words to this Italian song, so I wrote the refrain for them on the mirror and we sang togeth er,” Pezzoli laughs as he remembers it,

and adds that the words on the mirror are still there.

Danger of developing an addiction

With both incredible food, premium-qual ity wine and genuine smiles guaranteed, it’s no wonder that Pezzoli sees high numbers of returning guests. It does seem like Campo de’ Fiori is dangerously addictive. With that in mind, why not give it a try next time you’re in Oslo?

www.campo.no Instagram: @camporestaurant Facebook: campodafabio

General manager Fabio Pezzoli and head chef Francesco Oberto.

Italian tonight. Campo de’ Fiori is authentically Italian in Oslo.

The quality of the ingredients is guaranteed at Campo de’ Fiori.

Hotel of the Month,

Sweden

Stockholm’s boutique newcomer: an exclusive stay behind the scenes

Backstage Hotel Stockholm is more than a new boutique hotel. Here, guests get exclusive treats based on the backstage riders of iconic performers, and insights into the local cultural community and curated happenings. This is a playful entertainment hub where great design, music and art meet.

By Malin Norman

The recently opened Backstage Hotel Stockholm is a new hotel concept for guests. “We offer something more than a boutique hotel,” says Ingmari Pagen kemper, CEO of Cirkus Venues, the name behind this initiative as well as other renowned venues in Stockholm. “With Backstage Hotel, we curate the experi ence for the guest, invite them into the vi brant cultural community of Stockholm, and build an ambitious business without being pretentious.”

Photo: Seth&Östen

The concept ensures that guests are treated like stars, with top-notch service and everything that is expected back stage. Guests can even organise private parties in the suites, with their own DJ. For sure, this is not your standard hotel. In the same building, a new restaurant, bakery and boutique Konsthallen serves as the hotel’s eatery and also organis es regular happenings with music, wine and culinary experiences.

Our way of consuming culture has changed, according to Pagenkemper, due to streaming possibilities and, of course, the pandemic. “Nowadays, a lot more is required from venues and organisers to attract an audience. It’s not enough with a great concert or cool DJs, or a standard

Photo: Alexander Dahl

hotel room with a bed. The whole experience has to offer something more. With Backstage Hotel, we give that something extra – an opportunity to get up close and intimate with life backstage.”

Understated luxury and the party of the year

Together with famous Swedish concept designer Robert Bohman, a playful at mosphere has been created to transport the guest behind the scenes. Bohman has 25 years’ experience designing for clubs, restaurants and film produc tions in Sweden and internationally. “I wanted to create a cinematic environ ment, where each room is unique – a world of its own with art and interiors that mix vintage and new,” he says. “The lofts, suites and studios are luxuriously comfortable – our take on what it really means to be invited backstage.”

The old building itself dates back to 1880 and has been carefully restored and recreated, revealing details such as rafters and ornately-tiled stoves. With signature design pieces from POLSPOTTEN, furniture by Eichholtz and carefully selected contemporary art – Backstage Hotel certainly means business with a unique stay in understated luxury.

The hotel opened its doors in September with ‘the party of the year’. Some

800 guests came to party, some with personal AAA (Access All Areas) passes. Mötley Crue’s snake occupied one room, Lady Gaga’s mannequin with pink pubic hair another, and Deadmau5’s inflatable friends were found on one of the terraces. No doubt, this was a night to remember. “The launch party was everything we dreamt of and more,” says Pagenkemper, smiling. “We were proud to show off the entertainment hub in Djurgården from its sexiest side.”

Backstage riders and curated happenings

Guests at the hotel can get tailored expe riences with real-life so-called ‘backstage riders’ – lists of requests that high-profile performers often demand of the hosting venue. For instance, iconic saxophone player David Sanborn had an intriguing list of things to be placed in his suite be fore check-in, according to his rider from 2011. Among them were ‘large napkins’ and a ‘bed board under the mattress’, Sanborn also wanted ‘eight ripe papayas’ and ‘one large, sharp knife (for papayas)’. With the hotel’s rider called ‘eight ripe pa payas’, guests get healthy goodies such as fresh fruit, coconut and dark chocolate from Konsthallen in their room.

When Missy Elliot and her entourage hit the road, the rider usually contains some particular requests, from Jolly Ranch-

er Lollipops, Grey Poupon mustard and Cheetos, to Bond No 9 Candles in preferred scents of New York, Harlem and Park Ave. Of course, there is also fabulous Champagne on Missy Elliot’s rider. The hotel’s ‘Get Ur Freak On’ rider is an homage to the iconic artist and includes three bottles of Champagne with seasonal treats and goodies.

Backstage Hotel also guides its guests to the city’s most interesting and entertaining happenings. With the curated guide Backstage Happenings, people will know exactly where to go and what to do in Stockholm. “There is so much you can experience in the city, such as concerts and exhibitions, but also bars and restaurants, as well as shopping and wellness activities. Our staff has the local knowledge and will help with tips and bookings,” says Pagenkemper.

“The area Djurgården is a bit like Central Park in New York; you can easily combine an urban atmosphere with some relaxing time in lush nature next-door,” she concludes. “This is a dynamic culinary and artistic hub in Stockholm that is open for everyone. And it’s really close by, only a short walk, tram or boat ride from the city centre.”

www.backstagehotelsthlm.com Instagram: @backstagehotelsthlm

Photo: Seth&Östen

Photo: Seth&Östen

Photo: Alexander Dahl

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Turning heads: Copenhagen’s colourful new retreat for travellers and locals

In March this year, Copenhagen got a little more colourful. The reason? 25hours Hotels, the international hotel group renowned for its vibrant interior design, restaurants and bars, opened its first property in Scandinavia, in one of the hottest locations in the Danish capital.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: Stephan Lemke.

Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s cobbled Old Town, a stone’s throw from the city’s classic postcard sights, shop ping streets and a direct train to the air port, the spot could not be sweeter. But despite being enveloped by Danish his tory and design, 25hours Hotel Indre By has eschewed the conventions of Scandi navian minimalism.

Spread across four historic buildings, the hotel is resplendent in bold palettes and

patterns, bespoke textiles and over 100 artworks curated by the international art consultancy VISTO. The look is opulent but never overcooked, thanks to the sharp creative eyes behind the concept.

“The history of the location has a huge influence on the design. Our team of an thropologists, historians, designers and hospitality experts will identify a storyline based on the location, and then search for an interior designer to bring it to life.

We work with different designers for every 25hours Hotels property,” explains sales and marketing manager Linda Faust.

A bold and beautiful urban oasis

Based in an old university building, the Copenhagen hotel takes inspiration from

the overarching concept of ‘Coming of Age’. “We worked with the themes of passion and knowledge and collaborated with Martin Brudnizki Design Studios in London. We deliberately chose them so as not to go the New Nordic way, and to express more energy and vibrancy in the design,” says Faust.

The artful rooms range from ‘Medium Single’ to ‘Gigantic’, including bike rental. “Every room is distinct – it’s like exploring different worlds,” says Faust. Speaking of little universes, some rooms even have direct access to the charming Secret Garden on the first floor. “Surprisingly, there’s total peace and quiet in the garden, even though you’re right next to the city’s biggest shopping street. We also have an outdoor sauna, gym and wellness facilities. We want to be more than just a place where people sleep and check out of,” says Faust.

Case in point: 25hours Hotel Indre By is also home to four bars and eateries, which have quickly become favourites amongst Copenhagen locals and guests alike. “They’re open to everyone. As in our other hotels, 80 per cent of our bar and restaurant visitors are locals. We think it’s a much richer experience when you visit a city and mix with locals,” says Faust.

Copenhagen’s new local hangout Enter the hotel, beneath a playful awning that proclaims ‘We will never grow up’, and you won’t find a reception. Instead, you’ll be greeted by the photography-filled

Italian Café Duse, run by acclaimed pas try chef and author Melissa Forti, who designed the afternoon tea for the Royal Academy of Arts in London. “She’s in credibly talented and in December she’ll be serving Christmas cakes and pastries with a twist. It’s a great spot to break up a Copenhagen shopping marathon,” says Faust with a smile.

Beside the café is the colourful Israeli in spired Restaurant NENI, which celebrates its roots with a Levantine menu and mu ral of Tel Aviv, and the decadent Assembly Bar – a meeting point for coffee, cocktails and snacks, decorated with stunning jac quard fabrics by the Finnish textile artist Kustaa Saksi.

“We’ve placed the reception as far as possible from the hotel entrance, so you don’t feel like you’re in a lobby,” explains Faust. “We really want to make everyone feel welcome and that our doors are al ways open.” And there’s more revelry

downstairs. The atmospheric basement speakeasy, Boilerman Bar, might be the hotel’s best-kept secret, with a slick cock tail menu and boardgames embedded into the tables.

25hours Hotel Indre By might be a new comer, but it’s no shrinking violet. “We’re something different. You can find the con ventional Scandinavian design aesthetic everywhere, so even if you’re coming to Copenhagen to explore that scene, it’s a breath of fresh air to stay with us,” says Faust. “We’re an explosion of colours, pat terns and textiles and don’t have the typ ical Danish food – though you can find it just seconds from the hotel. Especially for frequent travellers, it’s a treat to experi ence a different side of Copenhagen.”

www.25hours-hotels.com

Address: Pilestræde 65, 1112 Copenhagen K

Instagram: @25hourshotel_copenhagen Facebook: 25hoursHotelCopenhagen

Hotel of the Month, Norway

Fosen Fjordhotel: “a miniature Norway”

By Andri Papanicolas |

Fosen Fjordhotel

Imagine a holiday where you wake up to the sunrise on the river, hike in the mountains during the day, and later watch the sunset over the fjord while you eat some of the finest seafood Norway has to offer. Staying at Fosen Fjordhotel is truly an allin-one experience.

Photos:

The view from the Via Ferrata. Photo: Fosen Aktiv

Norway has a lot to offer. So much so that visitors often have to plan meticu lously to get the most out of their holi day. But there is a hidden gem in Åfjord, Trøndelag county, where guests can ex perience the best of all worlds.

Fosen Fjordhotel is run by Ole Fr. Jons bråten, his wife Grethe Bratvold and their son Julian Jonsbråten. The family is dedicated to great hospitality; guests arrive to a warm welcome, with a roar ing fireplace and cosy candlelight.

Though the historical hotel has been a social melting pot in the small town for centuries, it had been quiet for many years before Ole and his wife fell in love it in 2019, and decided to bring the charm ing hotel back to life. “We came to a land of opportunity, here. The locals were wel coming and already hard at work to put Fosen and Åfjord on the map. This was crucial to us when we made our decision,” Ole says. Today, the hotel is once again the lively centrepiece of the town – the go-to place for both visitors and locals.

Ole describes Fosen Fjordhotel and Åfjord as a miniature version of Norway, with access to the mountains, fjords, forests, rivers and the sea all in one place. Stunning hikes are within walk

ing distance, and it’s a short drive to the award-winning beach at Stokkøya, near by farms selling local produce, or small shops in the enchanting town centre.

Where the river meets the sea

The hotel itself offers 51 rooms, from regular hotel rooms, to studios, family rooms, suites or junior suites overlook ing the river and the hotel garden. The garden is an important part of the hotel, with plenty to see all year round. When it’s in bloom in the spring and summer, you can enjoy a good meal in its relaxing atmosphere, while watching the salmon

Julian makes a cocktail in the hotel bar. Photo: Ellen-Beate Grøtting

Fosen Fjordhotel offers serene views over forests and rivers.

Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

and trout bounce across the river. In the winter, you can go swimming in the river followed by a sauna and fire-hut ses sion. That’s the real Scandinavian way.

The hotel is located where the Stord alsriver and Nordalsriver meet as a fjord that runs to the sea. As such, the fish ing opportunities are endless. The sea and fjord are the soul of Åfjord, drawing visitors from all over the world. “It does

not matter how much experience you have. You can try salmon fishing in the river from the hotel garden and, if you’re more daring, you can go winter fishing on the open sea, or try ice fishing in one of the many lakes,” says Ole.

Ole and Grethe take great pride in Fosen Fjordhotel’s food and beverage offering of traditional Norwegian home-cooked meals, classic à la carte courses with a

personal twist, and tailored fine-dining menus. The menu is thoughtfully put to gether and the kitchen works in harmony with nature; you will always find fresh, local and seasonal produce on the menu. Meanwhile, the bartenders collaborate with the chefs to create signature cock tails that perfectly suit the menu.

The hotel also arranges weekly events that bring together visitors and locals

Daniel, one of Fosen Fjordhotel’s talented bartenders. Photo: Bede Achike

Guests enjoying the hotel garden. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

Enjoy a SUP or a kajak excursion from the hotel garden. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

and support the surrounding community. Everyone is welcome to the hotel, whether for a coffee or a longer stay. This results in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere.

Discover adventure and relaxation alike

Fosen Fjordhotel collaborates with the experience agency Fosen Aktiv to offer unique experiences for visitors. Depend ing on your timeframe and interests, the team can arrange custom excursions during your stay.

To illustrate the endless possibilities, Ole describes a day of adventure for a tourist group from Trondheim: “The group walked five minutes from their hotel in Trondheim to the harbor where they got suits and goggles. They were transported on a RIB over the open sea, into the fjord. In two hours they enjoyed stunning views over the old fisheries and lighthouses, and spotted eagles and seals in their natural habitat.”

“When they got to Åfjord, they had fresh mussels for lunch before they buckled up and climbed the Via Ferrata. They drank fresh rhubarb juice made by lo cal farmers on the top of the mountain. When they got back to the hotel, they went for a swim and to the sauna. In the lobby bar, they tasted local beers combined with cured meats. Later, they dined at the chef’s table in our restau rant and were served seven courses, fol

lowed by local aquavit and a gin tasting in front of the fireplace.”

Whether you dream of trying salmon fish ing, sea fishing, kayaking, riding an elec tric bike over the mountains, or scuba div ing, Fosen Fjordhotel and Fosen Aktiv will arrange it for you. The hotel is suitable for families, couples, seniors and both large and small groups, and offers culinary ex periences and exclusive business pack ages for meetings, events, kick-offs and team building. The latest addition is the new sports lounge bar with a small movie theatre, six big screens, pool tables, shuf fleboards, darts and other games.

Fosen Fjordhotel is an authentic re flection of the Norwegian phrase ‘ko selig’, meaning cosy. In the lobby bar, you will find a fireplace, comfortable sitting groups and friendly faces. “Our team is like family. We are a mix of peo ple from around the world and the local area; that’s what makes us so unique,” Ole says. Everyone is invited to discover Norwegian nature, cuisine and culture all year round at Fosen Fjordhotel – the opportunities are endless.

www.fosenfjordhotel.no Instagram: @Fosenfjordhotel Facebook: Fosen Fjordhotel

Ole and Grethe run Fosens Fjordhotel. Photo: Alexander Killingberg

Sweet treats in the hotel restaurant. Photo: Ole Fr. Jonsbråten

Åfjord mussels, rumours say they’re the best mussels in the world. Photo: Ellen-Beate Grøtting

Experience of the Month, Faroe Islands

ENJOY: Bespoke experiences on the Faroe Islands

ENJOY is a new inbound travel agency offering exciting holidays that showcase the best of nature and culture on the beautiful Faroe Islands. Your visit can be tailormade to focus on outdoor adventures, or a recharge in breathtaking surroundings. Whatever you choose, the team behind ENJOY will ensure your stay is truly unique.

By Trine Ejlskov Jensen-Martin | Photos: ENJOY

ENJOY is the brainchild of Gist & Vist, the local business group behind Hotel Føroyar (currently the only spa-hotel on the islands), Hotel Tórshavn and Hotel Vágar, as well as several of the island’s restaurants. They aim to provide all-round experiences that introduce tourists to the

Faroese landscape and cuisine, as well as working alongside local communities to share their love and respect for the surrounding nature. “This is an outstanding chance to see the place from another point of view,” as ENJOY’s Frida Jóinsdóttir Joensen puts it, as local

guides take you on a hike, or by horseback through landscapes they know intimately. Needless to say, this trip around the Faroe Islands goes beyond standard guidebooks.

The space and time to explore Fríða and her colleague Helena Jakobsen are at the helm of ENJOY, using their vast experience in the leisure and hospitality industry to craft bespoke holidays to the Faroe Islands. They are both passionate about sharing the islands’ unique culture and nature that they know so well.

“There is always space and time within each holiday package to explore on your own,” explains Fríða. She emphasises how important it is for the packages to be flexible; the key is for clients to enjoy an unrestricted experience of the Faroe Islands. “We book every aspect of the packages we provide, using our own hotels and restaurants, but we work closely with other local businesses,” she says.

“We therefore don’t depend on other hotels or restaurants and will always respond to our clients within 24 hours,” she elaborates. This is one of their USPs and a crucial aspect to Helena and Fríða, who take pride in outstanding customer relations and satisfaction. Meanwhile, they maintain a strong working relationship with local tour guides, who take visitors on guided trips on bikes, on foot or horseback. This not only supports local businesses, but also cultivates a healthy respect for the surrounding nature and encourages a mutual understanding between tourists and locals.

Enjoy being in motion and in the moment “One of our year-round packages is the Active Break,” Fríða says. “This is an opportunity to venture into nature and experience the islands, their food and culture first hand whilst staying active.” This package allows you to explore the landscape and some of the islands’ quaint

villages, by bike or on foot, or simply relax while enjoying the exquisite views. As Fríða explains enthusiastically: “There are so many ways you can experience being in motion and in the moment with this composite package, the main thing is that you enjoy your time here.”

Whatever the nature of your visit, each season has something special to offer. The Active Break in January will be a very different experience to one during the summer months. “Sometimes you can experience all four seasons in one day here,” says Fríða. “My favourite time

of year is possibly May, as the emerging spring is beautiful. But autumn here is also stunning!”.

An ENJOYable future ahead

Nothing is far away on the Faroe Islands. There’s adventure and relaxation in equal measure and everything is within easy reach. ENJOY might be newcomers, but they have exciting plans in the pipeline. “We are going to offer a special New Year package this year,” says Fríða. It will include an evening event with dinner at Hotel Føroyar in Torshavn, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display on the roof terrace. Further ahead, they are planning a package that includes a marathon in the mountains for September 2023, while 2024 will see the opening of an outdoor spa in one of their hotels.

Whatever the weather, ENJOY offers something for everyone. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure or a chance to recharge, your enjoyment of the experience is their priority. The hardest part might be choosing a package, as they all have something exceptional to offer. And be warned, you may have to return more than once in order to fully enjoy everything the Faroe Islands have to offer.

www.enjoy.fo Instagram: @enjoyfaroeislands Facebook: Enjoy Faroe Islands

Photo: Beinta á Torkilsheyggi

Experience of the Month, Denmark

Go through the looking glass at this forest museum

In contrast to the wilderness of its Scandinavian neighbours, Denmark’s homogenous forests and polished fields stand as testaments to its agricultural cultivation. However, the country’s neat aesthetics come at a price. Its biodiversity rankings are egregious and, with over 60 per cent of the national territory dedicated to farmland, Denmark is facing a challenge: how to reconnect citizens with nature.

By Miriam Gradel | Photos: Bastian Birk Thuesen

The museum Skovhuset Art & Nature prides itself on its proximity to nature. Indeed, just strolling up to the main entrance is an exercise in forest bath ing. With a clear view of Søndersø, one of several natural lakes that formed in the wake of the last ice age, it’s hard to believe Copenhagen is only a 30-minute train ride away.

As the name indicates, Skovhuset muse um focuses on the synergy between our

human existence and the nature within and around us. But rather than creat ing internalised experiences, the art at Skovhuset aims to make our encounter with nature more immediate, interactive and unifying.

“Art provides us with a more sensual approach to understanding and being with the world around us,” says muse um curator Lene Crone Jensen. Through art, “Skovhuset aims to give relevance to momentous issues such as the climate crisis or the role of nature, and make the way we address these thematics percep tible,” she explains.

“Nature is always relevant, but the past 50 years or so have challeneged our per spective of it,” explains

museum director

A view of the upper floor exhibition room currently housing Astrid Kruse Jensen, Traces of What Once Were, 2021, archival fibre print. Installation view Skovhuset Kunst & Natur, 2022.

Bigert & Bergström, Cooling Station Party Tent, 2022, sculpture. Installation view Skovhuset Kunst & Natur, 2022.

Lars Grambye. “Our impact on nature has become significantly more visible.” That said, Skovhuset is not trying to incite political action. “We would like visitors to leave with an increased awareness of the value of nature,” Grambye explains.

The most recent installation at Skovhu set, Now, the Forrest Fades focuses on the unnerving aspects of nature and our basic fear of the unknown. “It is about daring to see the unpleasant sides to nature, and acknowledging that nature isn’t just here for our enjoyment, but that it also exists within us,” explains Grambye.

As with much in the natural world, Skovhuset is a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. With a focus on contemporary art and practices, the museum ambi tiously seeks out local and international artists who use, address or explore na ture in their work. “We want to provide an experience that goes beyond that of the stereotypical museum,” says Grambye. As such, Skovhuset not only incorporates interactive elements into its exhibitions, but collaborates with mediators from other industries, to expand the museum experience to a wider audience.

Art and nature – a social imperative

Since free education became an institu tional part of Danish society, the person

al and cultural maturation of individuals through art – referred to as ‘dannelse’ in Danish – has been regarded by many as equally, if not more important than ele mentary schooling.

In the ‘dannelse’ framework, art acts as a bridge between education and philos ophy. However, in an age where techno logical know-how is proiritised, artistic subjects have been slowly and system atically stripped from the curriculum. An arts education has become a nice-tohave, not need-to-have credential – and that can be considered troublesome. “Culture is a great part of what makes us human,” says Grambye, calling the di vide between elitist art experiences and art for the general public ‘an outdated misconception’. “In Denmark, we are big consumers of art and culture. Politicians shouldn’t ignore this, but rather view art as a positive attribute in contemporary society,” he says.

Skovhuset advocates for this view by us ing art as a channel to nature. Surround ed by forests and lakes, Skovhuset’s in timate museum space is ideally situated to offer art experiences that authenti cally reconnent visitors with the natural world – inspiring harmony amidst the dissonance of modern society. As part of its programme, the museum organises after-school arts and crafts for children,

hosts talks and workshops, and works with local organisations to bring joy to socially vulnerable citizens through art.

According to Jensen: “The pandemic has challenged our perception of nature,” in both the sense that human life is not a constant in the grand scheme of Earth’s, but also that when societies shut down, the value of being in nature is height ened. “Society is moving faster than ever before. Here, we have a connection with nature that extends beyond a mere walk in the woods, offering a slower ap proach,” says Crone Jensen. “The more profound our relationship with nature be comes, the more meaningful moments we’ll be able to experience.”

www.skovhus-kunst.dk

Until 22 January 2023: Nu Falmer

Skoven / Now, the Forrest Fades, with Maiken Bent, Daniel Gustav Cramer, Astrid Kruse Jensen, Joachim Koester, Jakob Kudsk Steensen, Jennifer Steinkamp, Astrid Svangren + Lounge: Jacob Kirkegaard

11 February – 23. April 2023: Allo la Terre, Knud Viktor

Current and upcoming exhibitions at Skovhuset Kunst & Natur:

Jesper Dalgaard, Så længe vi tror, lever håbet, 2022, sculpture. Skovhuset Kunst & Natur 2022.

Eva Koch, Lækjum, 2011, video installation. Installation view, Skovhuset Kunst & Natur, 2022.

Olafur Eliasson, The Glacier Melt Series 1999/2019, 2019. Installation view.

Experience of the Month, Finland

SwimRun: a race in the Åland Islands for extremists and beginners alike

At the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia in the Baltic Sea you will find Åland Islands, a huge archipelago of untouched nature: raw cliffs, mountains and dark green woods, in a sea that can be calm as a mirror or wild with roaring waves. It is a unique environ ment, and provides outstanding conditions for a challenging SwimRun event.

By Marie Westerman Roberts | Photos: Åland SwimRun

SwimRun is the endurance sport in which you run and swim along a set cross-country course of trails and open water, without stopping in between. SwimRun participants switch between running and swimming several times during a single race, running in their wetsuits and swimming in their trainers. It’s a requirement that the participants carry with them the mandatory equip ment during the whole race. SwimRun originates from Sweden but events are now organised all over the world.

The Åland SwimRun is organised by Åland Event. Hubertus von Frenckell, CEO at the regional tourism organisation Ålands Turisminvest explains: “We have a perfect natural environment for a SwimRun here

at Åland, and we can offer distances to fit all abilities, from beginners to the tough est most experienced competitor.”

What is special about the SwimRun on Åland is that they can offer longer, more challenging swim distances for the tough est competitors. “You must be a very strong swimmer to manage the toughest class,” says von Frenckell. In fact, you must prove you have done SwimRuns, or similar, before entering the toughest class. You must be prepared to keep go ing for 7-12 hours along a rough but out standing route. “The Tough Enough route is basically my home backyard, but I’m still astonished by the beauty of the route every year when I go out to mark it for the contestants,” von Frenckell says.

You can enter all classes as individuals or as a team of two, but in the most challeng ing class, the Tough Enough 50-kilometre, you must compete as a duo and stay to gether for the whole race. New for 2023 is that if you are feeling tougher than the Tough Enough route, it’s possible to add an extra distance at the end of the race.

Accommodation is available at Käringsund Resort and Conference, which is both the competition centre and the finish line for the race – a great set-up for the sporty family or group of friends.

www.swimrun.ax

Attraction of the Month, Finland

Siida Museum wins European award for repatriation of Sámi artefacts

Siida – Sámi Museum and Nature Centre was built to educate visitors on Sami cul ture and to preserve, but also enliven, the legacy of Sámi people in Finland. They have showcased the history and culture of Finland’s Sámi and northern nature for over 20 years.

By Ester Laiho | Photos: Siida/Rauno Koivunen

Siida opened its doors in June after ren ovations that included an expansion to house more artefacts and exhibitions. The expansion has made space for the exhi bition Enâmeh Láá Mii Párnáh – These Lands Are Our Children, which brings together the topics of nature and culture. The name of the exhibition comes from the Inari Sámi poem written by Matti Morotta ja, exploring the very same themes.

Outi Pieski, the art director of Enâmeh Láá Mii Párnáh – These Lands Are Our Children, has included the artists in the production of the exhibition to create a cohesive and immersive experience for visitors. Sámi culture is explained by exploring the presence of the past in today’s world, and by presenting con

temporary works of Sámi artists and duojárs, Sámi craft experts.

Siida’s storytelling of the past was also enriched earlier in the year with 2,200 objects that were repatriated from the Finnish National Museum. It is this col laboration that has earned Siida and the Finnish National Museum the Europa Nostra Award in the Citizen Engagement and Awareness-raising category. The awarding panel stated: “It is an enormous accomplishment and an invaluable effort to preserve European cultural heritage.”

The repatriation project was aided by 300 Sámis who assisted the museum in identifying objects. “They had a very im portant role to play. They investigated ar

tefacts that belonged to their families but also helped us identify and learn different craft methods in the process. We’re truly grateful for their input,” explains Minna Muurahainen, Siida’s head of sales and marketing.

Siida is situated in the town of Inari, 25 miles from Ivalo and 47 miles from Saariselkä, which makes it an excellent day-trip destination. The winter opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.

www.siida.fi Instagram: @siidainari Facebook: siidainari

Stools to sit down on to take in the beauty and colour of Sámi clothing.

You can learn more about the exhibition by reading about it in your preferred language.

Chest displaying Sámi jewellery.

Museum of the Month, Finland

A must-visit Helsinki home museum for cultural heritage and fine art

A 30-minute drive from central Helsinki is the picturesque island of Kuusisaari. Here, you’ll find Villa Gyllenberg – a home museum filled with art and history, and surrounded by gardens and a sea view.

By Ester Laiho

Villa Gyllenberg is the former residence of couple Signe and Ane Gyllenberg. They had a profound appreciation of art, and made arrangements before their passing to ensure that their collection could be enjoyed by as many people as possible.

The Villa was built in 1938 but was ex panded with a new dining room in 1955, and an art gallery wing in the 1970s. The couple passed away in 1977 and the mu seum was opened to the public in 1980. Among other artists, The Gyllenbergs had amassed an extensive collection of Helene Schjerfbeck’s works: a total of 39 pieces, most of which are on permanent display.

The art collection is displayed in the home museum. The two enjoy a symbiotic rela tionship: the art enhances the beauty of the home, while the home environment adds to the artefacts. When you visit Vil la Gyllenberg, you’re not only entering

someone’s home, but stepping back in time – a unique experience in itself.

Chief curator Lotta Nylund has made a ca reer of working in home museums in Fin land and Stockholm, and feels she’s found her niche. “I love that feeling of entering a home museum. It is always so unique and you feel like you’re travelling back in time. This is the feeling I hope all visitors to Villa Gyllenberg will experience,” she says.

Villa Gyllenberg hosts events all year round, ranging from calligraphy work shops to concerts. This Christmas will be a particularly immersive time to visit: there’ll be live music, and the drawing and living rooms have been decorated accord ing to pictures from old Gyllenberg family albums for an even more authentic expe rience. The Christmas tree is adorned with glass baubles and the dining room table is set with festive French Limoges porcelain.

The home museum will keep you busy for an entire afternoon, while the sea-facing café will keep you fed. And there’s more art nearby: the beautiful Didrichsen Art Museum is just a five-minute walk away.

www.villagyllenberg.fi Instagram: @villagyllenberg Facebook: villagyllenberg

is open from 12pm to 5pm, every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.

Villa Gyllenberg

Museum’s new lobby was designed by NOMAD architects and finished in late 2021. Photo: Niclas Mäkelä

Fragments, 1904: One of many works of Helene Schjerfbeck in Villa Gyllenberg. Photo: Matias Uusikylä / Signe and Ane Gyllenberg Foundation

Villa Gyllenberg’s interiors will transport visitors back in time Photo: Katja Hagelstam

Art Profile of the Month, Finland

Accessible art for everyone

Once upon a time, Pia and Patrik Edman were looking for a painting for their home. They searched near and far, but without any luck. Then one day, the couple had an idea. Why not make it easy for anyone to buy art from an online store with thousands of artworks by hundreds of artists?

By Taiko | Photos: Taiko

Today, Pia and Patrik operate Taiko, the world’s largest marketplace for Finnish contemporary art. With just a few clicks, you can order unique art straight to your home.

Choosing soul and green values

The green trend in consumer behaviour also affects the way we decorate our homes. In moving away from a throwaway culture, towards more sustainable values,

we now want long-lasting, personal and handmade products in our homes. Orig inal art fits this trend exceptionally well.

“We want to surround ourselves with longlived objects that create memories and radiate positive energy. An artwork, often passed on from generation to generation, does just that. And apart from bringing joy to the buyer, selling an artwork is always a big thing for the artist as well,” say Pia and Patrik.

Abstract painting by Jukka Suhonen. Photo: Ilona Aaltonen

With a collection of some 10,000 artworks by 550 artists, Taiko has delivered more than 7,000 artworks to homes in both Finland and abroad since 2016. To ensure high quality, only artists that fulfill certain criteria may sell their art on Taiko.

Besides reaching those already familiar with art, Taiko has attracted people who haven’t previously been exposed to tra ditional channels such as art galleries. In fact, many have bought their first ever artworks from Taiko.

Busting the myths

There are persistent beliefs that prevent us from buying and enjoying art. Pia’s and Patrik’s goal is to bust these myths. For example, art doesn’t have to be in terpreted in a complicated and flashy way. If an artwork triggers positive feel ings, it is the right choice for you.

“It’s as simple as that. Secondly, many think that art is always expensive and out of reach for ordinary people. This is also a myth since you can buy a print or an aquarelle for as little as 100 euros,” they explain.

Finnish art has an excellent interna tional reputation, but never has such a range been made so accessible until Taiko. Finnish design brands, such as Marimekko and Artek, are already pop

ular abroad. Now, Finnish contemporary art is following in these footsteps.

Find the right artwork

Artworks of nature and animals have traditionally been most popular among Taiko’s buyers, but abstract art is finding its way to more and more homes. Filter ing through Taiko’s thousands of paint ings, prints, photo works and sculptures may seem challenging, but its versatile search filter makes it easy to find the right artwork. You can also sort art based on theme, size, price and colour. Plus, you can try out Taiko’s virtual art guide Artzie, which uses artificial intelligence to rec ommend artwork for you.

When you have found the right artwork, add it to the shopping cart and pay online, with credit card or PayPal included in the payment options. After that, just wait for the courier to knock on your door.

“Our goal is fulfilled with each artwork that finds a home through Taiko. We feel that our work is extra meaningful in these uncertain times. Art may not win wars, but it brings beauty, comfort and soul to our home and mind,” Pia and Patrik conclude.

www.taiko.art

Instagram: @taiko.art Facebook: taiko.art LinkedIn: Taiko - Finnish Art Online

Facts about Taiko: The world’s largest marketplace for Finnish art.

Launched in November 2016.

Formed by the Finnish and Swedish words for art, TAIde and KOnst.

Language options English, Finnish and Swedish.

More than 10,000 artworks (paintings, prints, fine photo art and sculptures) by 550 artists.

Filter art by theme, size, price, colour and more.

Photo feature Taiko Test lets you see how an artwork fits your home.

Artzie, the virtual art guide, uses AI to help you find the right artwork. Worldwide delivery and versatile payment options.

Vesa Aaltonen: Green Forest.

Pia and Patrik founded Taiko, the online store for Finnish art, in 2016. Photo: Antti Ranki

Heidi Hjort: Stripes.

Sini Majuri: Iceberg 2.

Art Profile of the Month, Denmark

Printer’s Proof is pushing the boundaries of a rare artform

Valby, Copenhagen: in a one-storey building designed by Danish architect Ole Vinter in 1953, printmaking experts Olga Zolin and Kell Johan Frimor are running Printer’s Proof – an etching studio, publishing house and gallery. But something unusual is happening in their workshop. Since its establishment in 2013, the studio has been quietly nurturing a bygone form of printing.

By Lena Hunter | Photos: Printer’s Proof

“When we say we work with printmaking, most people assume that it’s lithography. But it’s deep print – an intaglio method in which motifs are etched into copper plates. It’s a much older technique that originated in the 1400s,” says Olga.

Though Olga and Kell are experts in printmaking, neither are artists them selves. Olga studied art history in Ita ly and the Netherlands, while Kell is a

qualified Master Printer. “Perhaps the only qualified intaglio printmaker in Den mark,” says Olga. At Printer’s Proof, the pair collaborate with artists of all disci plines, facilitating the production of etch ings in their studio.

“I think the reason why artists – wheth er they are a painter or a sculptor – don’t go into printmaking is because it requires such huge know-how. So this form of

collaboration is extremely important be cause, when artists come to our studio, our ambition is not to create something that imitates their existing production, but to facilitate the creation of a completely new body of work, while staying true to their studio practice,” explains Olga.

“It’s a very close collaboration from be ginning to end,” adds Kell. “It may be my hands doing the printing, but it’s their thoughts and ideas. You could say that they’re the head and I’m the hands, un til we have a finished work that hits the mark.”

“Often, something exceptional occurs” Olga and Kell actively seek out artists who have never worked with etching before.

“There’s something exciting about bring ing an artist over to a new medium. Often, something exceptional occurs when find ing an approach where they can work as freely as possible with this new material. Our job is to solve the technical transi tion,” says Kell. Etching can be complex. It’s a slow process that requires patience. “A day can pass from the moment an art ist finishes working on the plate, to seeing the finished result,” explains Olga.

A recent series of 22 monoprints by the Danish artist Ruth Campau, called This Moment for You, particularly embodied this spirit of exploration. “She’s known for her big installations, made from metres-long panels painted with her signature brushstroke. But here, the brush mark is registered on the copper plate as an etching, then printed on the paper. The result brings forth her brushstroke in an entirely unique way, with a delicacy she wouldn’t have been able to achieve any other way. Yet, she worked with the same tools – a broom-like brush – and made the same sort of mark,” says Olga.

Likewise, Olga and Kell point to their collaboration with London-based artist Erin Lawlor, who is renowned for her masterful works of oil on canvas. She produced an arresting series of three ‘non-figurative’ aquatint etchings – distinctively sculptural, monochromatic compositions that capture interplay between empty space and solid forms.

A nexus of the art scene

Printer’s Proof counts amongst the youngest generation of fine art publishers

in Copenhagen. Many of their collaborations have been with young artists fresh from the Art Academy, or still studying. “By working with young artists, we’re not only nurturing etching in a broad sense, but raising the profile of Copenhagen’s print scene. So I think it has had a hand in that shift.”

As a printing studio, publishing house and gallery, Printer’s Proof cultivates close and multi-layered relationships with its collaborators. As a result, it has become something of a hub for artists across generations and disciplines to meet and find inspiration in one another’s work and processes. “All those artists we work with – that’s because we believe in them 100 per cent. We invest our own money into these projects, so we run the risk along with the artist. In that sense we’re much more than a gallery,” explains Kell.

Visit the gallery

With rolling exhibitions of recent projects, special events and an open studio, the Printer’s Proof gallery is indeed a little universe of its own. “In other galleries you have the works on the walls and maybe someone who’s available for questions, but here you can see how the work is cre ated, and then you can see the finished work,” says Olga.

“The printing process requires a lot of concentration, so most of the time it’s just the two of us. But we welcome visitors. You can come down and we’ll explain our work and open our drawers.”

More than a gallery, more than a studio, Printer’s Proof is a modern incubator for a 500-year-old art medium.

Olga Zolin and Kell Johan Frimor.

Ruth Campau, This Moment for You, 2022 Monoprint (spit bite aquatint etching).

Erin Lawlor Untitled, 2022 Aquatint etching 88 x 63 cm.

Artist of the Month, Norway

Timeless tales on hand-woven tapestry

The working class, life at sea and friendship are just some of the topics the tapestry artist Dorthe Herup touches on in her latest work.

By Andri Papanicolas

The Norway-based Danish tapestry art ist Dorthe Herup is well known for cre ating beautiful woven portraits of her family lineage. She has a unique way of bringing history to life by looking at old photographs for inspiration and shining a new light on them.

In the latest project Møtesteder (Meet ing points), Herup continues to explore not only her own history but the history of the working-class people in Denmark

and Norway. “My hand-woven portraits present history with a focus on social relations, politics and individual sto ries. My tapestries are often linked to a specific time and place, but they also represent broader areas in Norway and Denmark,” she says.

Herup takes you on a journey back in time by telling the stories of both the struggles and the joys of our ancestors, illustrating the hardship and the social

reality they faced – a reality we can all recognise and even take part in.

Life at sea

One story worth telling is that of the fisherman Andreas Berg. This 160 by 145-centimetre hand-woven portrait presents the face of a man whose whole life was spent at sea, providing for his family in the 1800s. This man was Herup’s great grandfather and the medal on his chest was given to him after he risked his life saving a crew from drowning during a bad storm in the North Sea in 1893.

“It was tough work. The days were long and filled with hard physical labor. There

Drosjebua.

Photo: Tomas Moss

was no harbor where they lived at Bovb jerg in the northwest part of Jylland in Denmark. They had to carry the boats on shore after the day was over,” she says. Andreas Berg lived a long life, fishing right up until his death at almost 90 years old.

Meeting points

Normally the sailors would return home for retirement after a long career at sea. “When they weren’t sailing anymore and it was often hard for them to find their footing on land. They could go fishing, or watch the traffic and the boats going in and out of the harbor. They’d meet up with other sailors,” she says.

This is what inspired Herup to have a closer look at the town’s meeting points in Marstal, Ærø, Denmark, and what it was that gathered people together. A bench was a space for them to meet up, tell tales, and exchange stories from all

around the world. “This was life. They spent 50 years working hard on the boat to come home and do nothing. All of their friends were either at sea or sitting next to them on the bench,” Herup says.

Even though life at sea was harsh and meant being away from their family, to some men, it was the life they could only dream of. In the artwork Vennskap (Friendship), Herup portrays two men who never got the opportunity to explore the far corners of the world. Not fit to be come seamen, they instead spent their days watching the sea.

“These two have never worked as sailors and they spent all their lives at home. Many hours were spent watching the sea and fantasising about all the adventures they were not a part of. At least they had each other’s company and friendship,” Herup says. “In Benken, you can see

them sitting a little away from the retired sailors, listening to all the exciting sto ries,” she adds.

Another important meeting point in the city of Holmestrand, Norway was the taxi rank. This came about because one of the most indispensable tools of that time – the landline telephone – was placed there. This meant that a taxi driv er had to be present at all times to an swer the phone, and resulted in the taxi rank becoming a social meeting point in town. In the image Drosjebua you can see a mix of taxi drivers and other locals having a good chat.

Dorthe Herup has been a weaver all her life. All of her artworks are hand-woven and many are exhibited all around the world.

www.dortheherup.com

Fisker Andreas Bjerg - Herup’s portrait of her great-grandfather. Photo: Tomas Moss

Dorthe Herups artwork is known for telling a story of the past as well as the present. Photo: Dorthe Herup Vennskap. Photo: Tomas Moss

Benken (The Bench) portrays the tale of sailors who have served a long working life at sea, coming home and feeling empty. Photo: Tomas Moss

Shopping Experience of the Month, Finland

Helsinki Outlet:

The shopping village that has it all

Situated halfway between Helsinki city centre and Vantaa Airport, Helsinki Outlet is an unmissable, high-quality Finnish shopping destination.

By Silvia Colombo | Photos: Ninni West

Did you know there is a place where you can find the best deals, eat good food and enjoy your time with the whole fami ly? Helsinki Outlet is all that – and more.

The outdoor village, strategically locat ed between the heart of the city and its airport, occupies a gigantic plot packed with shops, restaurants and leisure

parks. But that’s not all: new brands have recently been added to the already rich shopping selection and an Italian restaurant with a Neapolitan-based menu and an authentic pizza-oven will open in December. Further plans are in the works to enlarge the outlet by some 4,000 square metres, cementing the destination as a must-visit for locals, tourists and businesspeople.

The wide assortment of brands, ranging across Finnish (such as Marimekko and Makia), the Nordics and the US (like Tom my Hilfiger and Levi’s), has established Helsinki Outlet as a hub for hard-to-find international brands and great deals, suit able for all ages and tastes.

The outlet is easily accessible by car and bus, and visitors can grab some food or a cup of coffee and relax in the lounge

space, before shopping. On family-trips, the kids will love the Hop Lop – an ad venture park and playground featuring a trampoline, climbing spot and a series of slides. Meanwhile, activities are run all year round to keep the little ones en tertained.

Helsinki Outlet also has a lot to offer tech-shoppers. Not only is the shopping village well-connected with Wi-Fi, but “this is the second outlet in Europe with an online shop – and it’s still growing,” says Johanna Haltia, the outlet’s CEO. With the Click and Collect service, it’s possible to choose the products online, from the comfort of your own home, then collect everything on site. And regulars, listen up: there is an affiliation programme, called the Helsinki Outlet Friends Club. “We cel ebrate our loyal customers by organising special openings, VIP shopping nights and exclusive deals,” says Haltia.

www.helsinkioutlet.fi

Instagram: @helsinkioutlet

Facebook: helsinkioutlet

Photo: Kids Agency

Photo: Aatu Heikkonen

The ‘Eleiko Feeling’ is something frequently associated with our bars, but to us it is bigger than that - it’s what we strive for in all our products and best achieved by keeping the user experience at the heart of everything we do.

— Erik Blomberg, Eleiko CEO

Eleiko, headquartered in Halmstad, Sweden, designs and manufactures precision crafted strength products for the world’s leading competition, training facilities and home gyms.

Safe charging at home.

GAROs wallbox makes your family life that bit easier. A smart, safe, and simple solution for your electric car charging at home. The WiFi connection provides several smart functions and full control over both charging and consumption. Besides, GARO wallbox can be equipped with load balancing, which ensures that the charging is adjusted to match current power elsewhere in the house without overloading the main fuse. garo.se

The future is simplicity.

The Future Library: Offering hope in a destabilised world

There is a special forest growing in Norway. Of all the other woodlands on the hills that overlook Oslo, this one has an exceptional purpose. In 100 years, wood from these trees will be used to make paper for a unique collection of books, in an ambitious project called The Future Library.

By Molly McPharlin | Photos: Future Library Trust

The Future Library was the idea of the Scottish artist Katie Paterson. “It began as an idea for a book, but this one actu ally came off the page and became real,” she says.

It was during a conference in Norway on ‘slow space and time’, that the seeds of Future Library were sown. The confer

ence, which took place variously in a for est, on an island and in an allotment yard, was seeking to commission permanent artworks that took an unusual approach. There, in the forest, her idea came to life.

Inspired, Paterson returned home to Berlin and contacted Anne Beate Hovind, who for over 20 years has worked as the

project manager and commissioner for many public art ventures throughout the Oslo region.

She asked if Hovind could help arrange for her to stay in a cabin in a forest, to see if she could plan a proposal. “The idea for me was so abstract that I had to surround myself with a Norwegian for est to expand my thinking,” recalls Pat erson. “I spent a week there, thinking about what this could actually be. After wards, I came back and said: okay, are you ready? It’s going to last 100 years. It’s going to need a forest. It’s going to need a library.”

Delivering a manuscript to the forest

100 years, 100 authors

The project is striking in its simplicity. Each year between 2014 and 2114, a dif ferent author creates a text that remains unread and unpublished for 100 years. So far, contributors to Future Library include authors like Margaret Atwood, Karl Ove Knausgard, Ocean Vuong and Elif Shafak, giving the project a broad international scope.

Writers are chosen by group decision, by all those involved with the Future Library Trust. “We’ve had authors con nected to time, nature and long-term thinking, and it’s grown from there,” Paterson says. “We’re quite strict in that we don’t invite people in advance. We’d like to keep it fresh and related to what ever is happening that particular year.”

A public space and vault dedicated to the project has been established in Os lo’s new main library, Deichman Bjørvi ka. Similar to the seed vault in Svalbard, Norway, that preserves seeds for future food supplies, this one protects literature for generations to come.

People can go and sit with the manu scripts that are stored in glass within the wooden interior of the vault. They won’t be able to read them, but they can con template what they will mean for readers in a future world. As the years pass and the number of texts grows, the forest will continue to be cared for and preserved,

ensuring its survival for the publication of the works.

Hope for the future

Hovind, who now acts as chair of the Fu ture Library Trust, believes the Future Library has become meaningful to many people because of its sense of hope. “It gives hope that we can actually do some thing extraordinary, that we can plan projects that will last 100 years, and trust they will succeed. People long for hope and trust, in my experience,” she says.

While the idea of hope was not fore most in her visualisation of the project, Paterson now too sees its importance in a world that feels increasingly dest abilised. “Right at the beginning, I was thinking of the materiality of books and digital reading and those kinds of ideas. Fast forward to now and the questions are about the extinction of the human race. That seems to be an enormous shift. Future Library is hopeful in that its success relies on future generations. There are people involved in this project who aren’t born yet, and planting trees is in itself a hopeful act.”

Every year, a new manuscript is delivered to the Future Library in a ceremony that takes place in the forest whose wood will be used to make the books. “Each year at the handover, the forester gives a speech on how the trees are faring that year, and what’s developed in the forest. This

year he used this phrase: ‘the roots have formed’,” says Paterson. “The trees have literally rooted themselves. That made it feel very permanent. The project is about quite simple things – rituals, nature and thinking ahead. Those are elements peo ple connect with because they’re deep human needs.”

“A real act, loaded with metaphor”

The Icelandic writer Sjòn was the Future Library author in 2017. He also sees the project as a hopeful act, not only for the world, but for the authors themselves. “One of the great things about this is it’s a multi-generational project. It’s not only about the here and now. You are prom ised a moment in the future. All authors hope for that. It recognises that literature is something that happens over time and literature is a collective effort. I could re ally sense it when I handed over my man uscript, and realised I was walking in the footsteps of Margaret Atwood and David Mitchell, and that the next author would be walking in the footsteps of all three of us.”

“This is a real act loaded with metaphor for how literature is created, how authors interact with those who go before them and those who follow. There’s hope in this because there’s hope that there will be authors. And there’s hope that those authors will produce work, and that that work will have readers.”

www.futurelibrary.no

Margaret Atwood on Future Library Handover Day, 2015. Photo: Bjørvika Utvikling by Kristin von Hirsch

A reading in the Future Library forest.

Photo: Bjørvika Utvikling by Kristin von Hirsch

This is my house!

Alfons Åbergs Kulturhus (Alfie Atkins’ Cultural Centre) is a creative cultural centre for children and their adults.

This is a place where curious children can play, get up to mischief, climb and discover a world full os exciting things.

December’s new Scandi music releases

By Karl Batterbee

Faroese newcomer Tamara is out with her latest sound offering – new single I Should Have Known Better. It’s a futuristic R&B jam that briefly switches gears and throws it back – treating us to a full Y2K breakdown mid-song! That element will be very much appreciated by certain folk of a cer tain age. This is the singer-songwriter’s second single, after debuting with Solo Crowd earlier in 2022.

Danish outfit Gorgeous have just gone and dropped their third single. On new release Nothing Was Perfect, the duo sink bliss fully into a lush soundscape of retro-toned references, from folk and indie to synth and pop. There’s a lot to unearth on each listen, and there’s a lot to love too.

Deploying the catchiest of guitar riffs and pairing it with a dance beat that POPS –

Monthly Illustration

Swedish artist KIDDO has crafted one of her finest tunes to date on her banging new single Who’s That Girl. She’s mostly been writing and featuring on dance tracks for other artists recently, but she’s clearly kept a unique sprinkling of magic aside for her own stuff.

Two songwriters and producers from Sweden – Elsa Levahn and Stella Ringdahl –make up the fresh pop duo Grandi. They’re the first act signed to Laleh’s PALANG label, and the music icon has even given them an extra hand with the composition of their insanely catchy new song Bitchcraft. This one is – as the title might well have alluded to –a hell of a lot of fun to listen to.

The Icelandic trio Systur are current ly touring their latest release, following on from representing their country at the

Eurovision Song Contest in May. New hit Goodbye is a tender ballad that’s awash with haunting melancholy, and further el evated by a beautiful melody that’s been brought to life by their sibling harmonies.

www.scandipop.co.uk

Jesus loved a comfy seat

Rain, damp, cold floors in the morning – it’s UK winter again. I don’t know if I signed up for that. At least in Sweden there is a possibility of a few weeks of snow, some good old sleighing, frost and northern lights. In the UK, you just get by on thicker curtains and more booze.

Lucia might just be my favourite tradition. It isn’t as stressful as Christmas (cooking the ham, family tensions, expensive gifts), and not a let-down like New Year’s Eve (must have fun dressed up in uncomfortable, glittery clothes and think of earnest New Year’s resolutions). Lucia is just about lovely candles and beautiful songs, with some gingerbread thrown in. At least, it is if you ignore the martyrdom and all that.

The Scandi interpretation of Lucia is very visually satisfying, and the bit about giving up your life and riches for the poor is re-

markably absent, which is a relief, really, since that would involve sacrifice. No, Lucia is the time in which we wind down before Christmas. We close the door, sink into the sofa and enjoy being wealthy and safe - just as Lucia would have done. And Jesus, too.

I heard he loved a comfy seat, a pint of baileys and thick curtains to hide the misery outside the window.

By Gabi Froden

A few years ago, my sister-in-law did this brilliant thing with her kids: a reverse advent calendar. Every morning, when they opened their chocolate calendars, they also picked something from the food cupboard and put it in a big box that they decorated together. On the 24th they delivered it to their local food bank. Perhaps, if we all taught our kids that this is how to celebrate advent, the state of the world would be different. And Christmas might feel slightly more authentic.

Gabi Froden is a Swedish illustrator and writer, living in Glasgow with her husband and two children. Her children’s and YA books are published in Sweden by Bonnier Carlsen and Natur&Kultur. www.gabifroden.com

Scandinavian Culture Calendar

–Where to go, what to see? It’s all happening here!

By Hanna Heiskanen

Snö (14 to 18 December)

Snö, meaning snow in English, is a dance and puppet performance for over fouryear-olds by Dockteatern Tittut. The show has been inspired by Sámi culture and its many expressions for the word snow. Fea turing bears, reindeer and other Northern creatures, the show has been selected for the 2022 BIBU – the bienniale for per forming arts for children and youth. Lundagatan 33, Stockholm www.dockteaterntittut.se

light projections, The Nutcracker ballet at Tivoli Concert Hall (with costumes by Queen Margrethe II) and, of course, Santa. Vesterbrogade 3, Copenhagen www.tivoli.dk

Gingerbread House 2022

(until 8 January 2023)

Christmas at Copenhagen Tivoli (until

31 December)

The Tivoli amusement park in the centre of the Danish capital is always well worth a visit, but at Christmas it’s especially magical. In addition to the rides, check out

If you’re looking for inspiration for your Christmas table, look no further than this cracking gingerbread house exhibition at ArkDes, Sweden’s national centre for architecture and design. This is not only an exhibition but a competition with sep arate categories for children, amateurs and professionals. The theme for 2022 is ‘Around the Corner’. Exercisplan 4, Stockholm www.arkdes.se

Winter Circus Joy takes over Dance House Helsinki. Photo: Joona Pettersson

Grayson Perry: Selfie with Political Causes (2018). Photo: Courtesy the artist, Paragon Contemporary Editions Ltd and Victoria Miro

Under the Cherry Blossom –Japanese Woodblock Prints (until 15 January 2023)

When the winter is at its darkest, you need a bit of cherry blossom in your life. This exhibition at the Sinebrychoff Art Museum presents more than 140 Japanese wood block prints from the 17th through to the 19th century, including works by Hokus ai, and will feel like a holiday abroad with none of the CO2 emissions. While at the museum, check out their permanent ex hibition on the Sinebrychoff family.

Bulevardi 40, Helsinki www.sinebrychoffintaidemuseo.fi

Winter Circus Joy (5 December to 21 January 2023)

Christmas time equals another edition of Hurjaruuth’s Winter Circus Joy, a show for children and adults alike. Performed for the first time this year at the new Dance House Helsinki, the show has been cho reographed by the renowned Kenneth Kvarnström. Taking over the stage will be top performers from around the world, in cluding pole dancer Yvonne Smink. Tallberginkatu 1/117, Helsinki www.hurjaruuth.fi

Grayson Perry – Fitting In and

Out (until 26 March 2023)

Up to your ears in tinsel and looking for something a little different? British con temporary artist and Turner Prize winner Grayson Perry never fails to surprise and entertain. Fitting In and Standing Out offers a sweeping view of his art from the 1980s to the present, from ceramics to sculpture, and from print to embroidery. The themes include identity, gender and consumerism. Riddargatan 13, Stockholm www.sfhm.se

Utagawa Kunisada [Toyokuni III] (1786–1864): Actors Nakamura Tomijūrō II, Onoe Baikō and Inchikawa Danjūrō VIII in the Play “Umeyanagi Sakigake Soshi” (“The Tale of the Early Flowering Plum Trees and Willows”). Photo: Finnish National Gallery / Jenni Nurminen

Christmas at Tivoli. Photo:Tivoli Gardens

Standing

Snö is all about snow in all its forms. Photo: Jonas Jörneberg

FOR EVERY MOMENT

Sustainable bags made to last

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Contributors

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Lotta Lassesson

Malin Norman Maria Vole

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Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849): Thundershower beneath the Summit, from the series Thirty-six Views of Fuji. Photo: Finnish National Gallery / Jenni Nurminen