Scan Magazine, Issue 83, December 2015

SCAN MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2015/JANUARY 2016 PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA

PROMOTING BRAND SCANDINAVIA ISSUE 2015/JANUARY 2016 ISSUE 83 82 DECEMBER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

ISSUE 83

SOFIA HELIN – THE ACTOR WHO HAS IT ALL HIGHLIGHTS FROM NORWAY’S ART SCENE DISCOVER SWEDEN’S WINTER WONDERLAND MEET GEEK GIRL ENTREPRENEUR HEIDI HARMAN

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Scan Magazine | Contents

Contents 32 15

COVER FEATURE 32

Sofia Helin – the actor who has it all

38

‘Saga Norén, Länskrim, Malmö.’ Every selfrespecting Nordic Noir fan knows the tonality and facial expression with which Sofia Helin delivers the line as part of the role that rewired her brain and changed her career forever. Scan Magazine spoke to the Swedish actor about playing Saga Norén, making sense of being a public person and telling a BBC Breakfast presenter to spread her legs.

Sleek design and a commendable welfare system in all their glory; it is easy to forget about all the natural and cultural treasures of the northern half of Sweden. And there is more than the northern lights and multiple inches of snow. How about a mid-winter classical music festival and first-hand experience of Sámi life?

52

Made in Norway With Denmark, Sweden and Finland making up an almost unbeatable trio in the world of design, Norway is often sidelined as the less important neighbour when it comes to creativity. As part of this month’s Design section, we set out to prove this conception wrong, or at least highlight a selection of the both successful and stunning designs coming out of the Nordic country at the moment.

SPECIAL THEMES 20

66

76

27

BUSINESS 88

Highlights of Norway’s Arts Scene

From festive drinks to quantum physics With the festive season in full swing, this month’s business calendar is all about drinks and luncheons and other ways to get a welldeserved break, while Paul Blackhurst goes all quantum physics philosophical on us in the keynote and columnist Steve Flinders ponders eloquence and rhetorics.

Nordic Culinary Delights Our big food theme is not actually due for another couple of months, but did you ever dine at Blød Hat in Copenhagen? It is hip, fun and frankly brilliant.

Oh, and everybody needs a bit of chocolate in the build-up to Christmas. That, and a healthy snack to make sure the chocolate lasts the full festive season. The perfect trio for a mini theme about Nordic culinary delights, if you ask us!

The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes Norwegians spend more time in their holiday homes than any other nationality. So what is the fuss all about? Scan Magazine spoke to Norway’s best leisure home producers to find out.

While in Norway admiring and discovering the fabulous design you did not know existed, take the opportunity to also discover the art scene with its both traditional and avant-garde artworks. From men wearing dresses to woven family portraits, there is no shortage of must-see exhibitions showcasing the work of Norwegians this winter.

50

Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish Did you not find the perfect school in last month’s big education special? Do not fret: from sports to special needs, we have another long list of highly regarded, exciting efterskoler in this issue.

DESIGN 14

Swedish Winter Wonderland

CULTURE 92

A geek girl revolution Did you know that half of all women leave the tech industry due to the hostile work environment? Meet the geek girl who set out to change this, and then take Karl Batterbee aka Scandipop’s word for which tunes to put on repeat this Christmas.

REGULARS & COLUMNS 6 We Love This | 8 Fashion Diary | 75 Attractions of the Month | 77 Hotels of the Month 81 Restaurants of the Month | 86 Humour

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 3

Scan Magazine | Editor’s Note

Dear Reader, All it takes for me to get into the Christmas spirit is to open up that first glögg bottle. As a warming scent of cloves, ginger and cardamom spreads throughout the house, you could convince me in a flash to skip everything from Christmas presents to traditional cartoon-watching and even a tree in favour of sipping glögg in front of the fire for days on end. But there are as many interpretations of Christmas as there are Christmas lovers out there, and our hope is that the December issue of Scan Magazine will lure out that Christmas feeling regardless of what you prefer to associate it with.

For starters, our design section is pretty hefty this month, putting the spotlight on Norway for a change. Despise the commercialisation of Christmas if you wish, but a custom-made piece of jewellery or an ethical pure-wool design makes both a thoughtful and virtuous gift. Add our profiles of some of the most interesting Norwegian artists currently on the scene, and you might just feel inspired enough to make your own gifts this year.

For some, Christmas is all about heaps of snow and plenty of time for outdoor fun, so we thought the mood demanded a presentation of our favourite spots to visit in Sweden this winter. From expert help to capture the northern lights on camera, to experiences steeped in Sámi culture and some of Europe’s best skiing destinations, this Swedish winter wonder-

land will make you wish for woolly hats and snow boots under the Christmas tree.

Others welcome the winter cold by hiding from it in front of a fire in a cosy log cabin. From traditional to exceedingly modern, the cottages we have familiarised ourselves with, courtesy of Norway’s best leisure home producers, make life in the city seem like nothing short of a joke.

Cosy-loving couch potato or outdoor-opting lunatic, you must agree that at the heart of Christmas is a message about being thankful for what we have and conscious of those who have less. Our cover star, Nordic Noir heroine Sofia Helin, is both – and not scared to use her public profile to make a difference. Ask what she wants for Christmas, and you are likely to be told that she has it all. “I’m not being humble, I’m just so incredibly privileged that it would be arrogant to ask for more,” she told me. Let that be the spirit of this year’s festive season, and I think it will be a good one.

Linnea Dunne, Editor

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4 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Scan Magazine® is a registered

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Welcome to Live in a Work of Art! Introducing P책l Ross, award-winning architect from Scandinavia, whose designs are renowned as much for their curves as for their sustainability.

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Scan Magazine | Design | We Love This

We love this…

The month of Christmas is upon us. Presents are to be bought and traditional foods are to be made for the whole family. But do not forget to pamper yourself and make your home bright and cosy with candles and Christmas decorations. We love the Scandinavian winter décor in all its simplicity and warmth.

By Sara Asoka Paulsen | Press photos

George Jensen Advent candleholder The dynamic shapes of Danish Georg Jensen’s designs are what make them fascinating and timeless. This Advent candleholder is a modern classic that makes for a beautiful centrepiece at the dining table.

Season Candleholder, £72 www.georgjensen.com

Diamond-shaped decorations Pastel colours, combined with Nordic simplicity, make for a really elegantly sweet combination. Hang them on your Christmas tree or in the windows.

Diamond-shaped hanging decorations, £3.50 www.ikea.com

Kubus bowl The Kubus bowl offers a decorative way to store Christmas fruits and nuts such as apples and walnuts.

It is elegant and clean in its design and can be used for several purposes. For a DIY Christmas still-life, fill it with moss and decorate with pinecones and holly.

Kubus bowl by Lassen, approx. £85 www.nordicelements.co.uk

6 | Issue 83 | December 2015

JUL candle In the colour of mulled wine, the JUL candle from brand SKANDINAVISK instantly takes our mind to Christmas Day. Cinnamon, cloves, gingerbread and of course mulled wine are the key notes behind this truly Christmassy scent.

JUL candle by SKANDINAVISK, £25 www.skandinavisk.com

Pen Pot Not intended for Christmas per se, these Pen Pots from Studio Arhoj are really sweet, hand-painted and therefore unique. By all means, use them for pens, or buy some in different colours and fill them with dried flowers or small fir branches.

Pen Pots by Studio Arhoj, approx. £24 www.nordicelements.co.uk

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Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary

Fashion Diary…

It is December, and we all know what that means: Christmas party galore! Your wardrobe, however, might suddenly seem inadequate at best, so we set out to find some fool-proof items to wear over and over again, sure to make you look dazzling every time.

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Press photos

The button-down detail on the collar and open breast pocket make this shirt a wardrobe must-have. A real gentleman can never have too many shirts – especially not light blue Oxford classics like this one.

Stretch Oxford Spiel light blue from Mads Nørgaard, £72 www.madsnorgaard.dk

Why not make a statement and wear a Bordeaux tie featuring all-over microdot print in pure silk? It may sport an untraditional colour, but it fits bright and dark suits alike, making it practical and a good investment.

Tiger of Sweden Marciano Tie, £59 www.tigerofsweden.com

Whether you are going to a Christmas work do or a friends’ night out, looking the part is essential.

Luckily, Tiger of Sweden has designed a suit for This coat has it all, the warm exactly that purpose – and collar in a soft material and the for whenever else you stylish dark blue, making for a want to look dashing. This great contrast. It is difficult not to is a slim-fit suit in wool look handsome in this one, and herringbone, with slim the jacket is perfect for the cold peak labels, slim pockets evenings ahead too. and a two-button closure.

Clinton Jacket, approx. £290 Tiger of Sweden Suit Evert www.woodwood.dk 17, £699 www.tigerofsweden.com

8 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Socks may seem insignificant, but they do not have to be. The Swedish company Happy Socks has made playful socks with vivid colours to bring out your inner child.

They are knitted from the strongest combed cotton fibres for long-lasting comfort and durability. Who says wearing a suit has to be boring?

Happy Socks Big Dot Socks, £8 www.happysocks.com

Scan Magazine | Design | Fashion Diary A Christmas party often starts with a delicious Christmas dinner, challenging your choice of outfit. Naturally, you want to be able to eat whatever you feel like, but at the same time look fantastic as the meal comes to an end. Behold this simple, yet elegant, PIECES Strap Dress. It is made of 100 per cent viscose and, more importantly, elastic in the waist, making it perfect for Christmas partying at its tastiest.

Strap Dress from PIECES, £36 www.bestseller.com

With a simple dress, add statement jewellery. This Pilgrim necklace is an exciting combination between elegant gold and raw black. While wearing this, there is no doubt that you will be noticed.

Pilgrim necklace, gold, £45 www.pilgrim.dk

Sometimes an outfit needs a colourful twist. This handbag from Palmgrens is made of vegetable tanned calf leather.

It has three compartments, one zip pocket and one smaller pocket inside. With this bag you will always have room for that extra mascara and lipstick.

Palmgrens handbag, cognac, £350 www.palmgrens.se

The Danish company Ecco is known for making comfortable quality shoes. If you decide to go for heels all night, at least make sure that they are comfortable. These combine the best of both worlds, looking amazing yet promising not to prevent you from impressing everyone on the dance floor.

Baltimore shoes, £130 www.ecco.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 9

Scan Magazine | Design | Street Style

Nordic humans of London Scan Magazine’s brilliant Sanna Halmekoski has once again hit the streets of London to find out what the Scandinavian fashion fanatics are wearing. Cool, sleek and full of statements, this is a little piece of Scandiland in the United Kingdom.

Text and photos by Sanna Halmekoski | Twitter: @suomigirl | www.suomigirl.com

Jimi Tenor, Finnish musician “My style is self-made and reflects my career as a performer. I had this pink suit made in China and it travels with me everywhere. My shirt is

by Batik Halus and my trainers are

by Converse.”

Clara Gunnarsdóttir Bryceland, Icelandic architect “I believe in not taking life too seriously. My style is Nordic with colour.

I am wearing a shirt by Ted Baker, a dress by Monki, shoes by Office and glasses by Gok Wan.”

Magnhild Kennedy, Norwegian artist and mask-maker at Damselfrau (www.damselfrau.blogspot.co.uk) “I am fond of ethnic textiles and comfy utilitarian clothes. I am a big sneaker fan. Today I am wearing a Damselfrau mask made by me, Nike Blazer trainers, Lee jeans, an Indonesian silk cardigan and an old Japanese indigo peasant jacket.”

Jimi Tenor

Clara Gunnarsdóttir Bryceland

10 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Magnhild Kennedy

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Seatsleepers

A good journey’s sleep In April 2015 a group of creative people in Denmark’s second largest city, Aarhus, came up with an idea. They were all frequent travellers and the hassle of a bad nap, as well as the accompanying muscle and neck pain, had been a recurring problem for all of them. They made it their mission to find a solution to the problem of sleeping while travelling, and so the concept of Seatsleepers was born.

By Sara Asoka Paulsen | Photos: Seatsleepers

The peace of mind of knowing that travelling does not necessarily mean lack of sleep is sought by many. A powernap can be the difference between a good and a bad experience, whether you are travelling between meetings or for important family commitments. To the rescue comes the Seatsleeper, an affordable and practical aid that packs away easily and neatly and is user-friendly in its design.

The Seatsleepers are perfect for those special vacations requiring you to sleep 12 | Issue 83 | December 2015

while being on the move. As for the cruise ship traveller, the Seatsleepers will make you rested and ready for new adventures as they help secure the occasional powernap between destinations or events on the ship. The same goes for the many families travelling by car to summer destinations or for annual ski trips. You can now head straight for the slopes or the amusement park!

Ergonomically sound It took the brains behind Seatsleepers almost a year to produce the right pro-

totype. It had to have a high comfort level as well as a secure and ergonomically approved fit. Ergonomists helped ensure this throughout the production process, resulting in the straps being placed around your head in order to protect your neck from uncomfortable twitches when falling into a deep sleep.

When sleeping in an upright position, it is important to stabilise one’s neck to avoid stretched muscles and the associated pain. One of the founders of Seatsleepers is a physiotherapist, so the ergonomic aspect of the product has been an important factor from the start. “We’ve made sure that the product also takes deep sleep into consideration. That’s why Seatsleepers prevent you from not only falling to the sides, but also falling straight forward, the latter being a sign of a really deep sleep,” says

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Seatsleepers

co-founder Kristian Meiniche. “We have yet to see a similar product, so it’s completely unique.”

The materials are chosen in order to make the product both comfortable and safe to wear. A strong nylon band is fastened on the headrest, accompanied by a soft organic cotton band with adjustable Velcro. “The cotton band is organic in order to avoid allergic reactions on the skin,” Meiniche continues. The design also had to be appealing, simple and easy to fit to different kind of seats.

The product suits any person over the age of approximately eight travelling by train, car, plane or even ferry. As long as there is a seat with a headrest, the product will work. Even on business class flight seats, which typically are a little wider, the Seatsleeper will fit as there is a click-on option to expand the nylon band.

Needed in nursing homes As the design is simple and easy to attach to many types of chairs, Seatsleepers are also perfect for nursing homes.

In fact, the developers went to a Danish

nursing home and asked the residents how the product could help them in their everyday life. Many of the residents mentioned the situation where they get sleepy at night but are not to be put to bed by staff for some time.

Everybody knows what it feels like to wake up with a sore neck after sleeping in an upright position. These aches increase with age, and Seatsleepers are therefore hugely beneficial in nursing homes. The creative team behind the product is now considering developing more products for this market, as many more problems can be solved with the same kind of problem solving that resulted in the Seatsleepers.

Still under development When you buy the sleeping aid, it comes elegantly packaged in a small, black, pipe-shaped cardboard case with a travel bag included. The Seatsleepers are available in black, blue, green and pink, the seams on the cotton bands matching in colour. “This is the perfect Christmas present for the frequent traveller or someone who thinks they have got it all,” says Meiniche.

The Seatsleeper can be bought both online and in selected Danish stores, but as the company is experiencing rapid growth at the moment, it will soon also be possible to buy the product in both Spain and Australia as well. For now, it is produced for people over the age of approximately eight, simply because of the height, but a version for small children is on its way. The team is eager to find solutions to other travel-related problems too, so do not be surprised if you come across other clever products from Seatsleepers within the next couple of years.

For more information, please visit: www.seatsleepers.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 13

Scan Magazine | Design Profile | Lulu Badulla Jewelry

Jewellery that stays in style Lulu Badulla Jewelry may sound a tad odd and untraditional, but the name suits the products. It stresses the humouristic, playful universe that Lulu Badulla invites you to, just like the brand’s signature pink – a complement to the otherwise minimalistic, raw designs.

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: Lulu Badulla Jewelry

“We don’t do collections. Instead we release new designs throughout the year, because every piece of jewellery should have a value in itself – a value that lasts forever and not just until the next collection is released,” explains Anja Gottliebsen, designer and founder of the Copenhagen-based Danish jewellery design brand. How does she create value?

Simply by making sure that every piece of jewellery tells a story of its own.

“For example, we had this idea about making the hole in the ear active in the story. Our ROBIN ear pin thus explains the story of how the hole was made, inferring that you only have one chance to do it right. Thereof also the name:

Robin Hood always did it right the first time,” Gottliebsen smiles.

The design process starts in Copenhagen, which is, according to Gottliebsen, “the Scandinavian capital of design”. As such, they set extremely high

standards for the jewellery. “We want to honour the Danish design heritage and secure the quality of Danish design moving forward,” Gottliebsen explains.

That is also why the jewellery is handmade by the best craftsmen from around the world. The main production of Lulu Badulla is located in Jaipur and, when asked why, Gottliebsen explains that India is the world’s number one city for quality handcrafted jewellery manufacturing – leaving Lulu Badulla in the best hands possible.

For more information, please visit: www.lulubadulla.com

Made in Norway:

Jewellery inspired by rock ‘n’ roll Are you looking for that special necklace that you will never recognise on anyone else?

Or perhaps a matching pair of wedding rings with a unique inscription? Then jewellery designer Ailin Rølvåg is the person to speak to.

By Helene Toftner | Photos: Smykkedesigner Ailin Rølvåg

Rølvåg started her company nine years ago, inspired by the fascinating mix of a passion for rock and metal music and shapes found on the seabed, such as seahorses and anemones. “I always listen to music when I visualise the designs,” she says.

A goldsmith by profession, Rølvåg puts emphasis on quality as well as design that is visually appealing and comfortable to use. “My customers are typically people looking for pieces that will last a lifetime while also being completely unique,” she says, a point wellillustrated by the latest pair of wedding rings she has made. “The couple wanted a specific dragon crafted into the rings.

You can be sure no one else will have 14 | Issue 83 | December 2015

the same rings.” While custom-made jewellery accounts for the majority of her work, Rølvåg also designs permanent collections, including the stunning Illuumi collection of pendants, all branded with sayings such as ‘Yes you can’ or ‘Be your own hero’. “They are my way of making the world a better place,” the designer says.

You can buy Rølvåg’s jewellery online, either through her website or by email request, and it can be shipped all over the world.

For more information and to order, please visit: www.roelvaag.com

Pendants from the Illuumi collection.

Scan Magazine | Design | Made in Norway

A retro road trip to success Give two ground-breaking, creative designers a vintage caravan and they will be selling Norwegian design on a global scale within two years. At least that is how the cool ladies behind FunkyDoris rolled.

By Celine Normann | Photos: FunkyDoris

“To succeed with establishing a new home design brand in a competitive market, we had to think creatively to get noticed. So we bought a retro caravan, packed her full of our designs, hooked her onto our Cadet and hit the roads,” says founder Tove Trydal. The designers drove to different fairs in Norway and Denmark selling out of the boot and, unsurprisingly, creating a lot of buzz. “By the end of the road trip we had around 20 suppliers on board.”

Rocketing success This was back in August 2013, a year after the brand was established. “As a two-person company we have to rely on ourselves for everything, from the familiar creative bits to learning new skills and even other countries’ trade regulations. It has been a steep learning curve,” Trydal says. While naturally meeting the odd bump along the way, FunkyDoris’ rapid market growth is a clear sign of success. “The hard work has been incredibly rewarding and we are both humble and proud. We just signed an agreement with an agent in Australia and New Zealand after they noticed us at an exhibition. It is amazing knowing that our de-

signs will be featured on the other side of the world.”

‘Makes your home smile’ She and partner Grethe Bjørk have always had a clear vision with their design. “We aim to liven up your home and therefore play around with shapes and colours. Our slogan, ‘FunkyDoris makes your home smile’, states our intention of creating a splash of colour, happiness and humour in your environment,” says Trydal. The pair works purely with sustainable natural products and materials, inspired by Norwegian traditions. “We find inspiration from the ’50s and ‘60s and add a modern twist to create charming everyday products.”

100% Norway Scandinavian design is blooming at the moment, and Trydal emphasises Nordic designers’ general focus on quality and timelessness. Still, Norway has long been the little nation not receiving as much attention as its neighbours.

“This is really changing. The strategic promotional work of a campaign called ‘100% Norway’ has made a huge difference, especially for smaller brands,”

FunkyDoris brings colour and happiness to your home.

The retro caravan designers on the road.

Trydal says. “People have noticed the great design emerging from our nation with unique, real products of great quality. It is a truly exciting time to be a Norwegian designer.”

For more information, please visit: www.funkydoris.no

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 15

Scan Magazine | Design | Made in Norway

Not only are Mole’s clothes pretty, they are also pure, sustainable and comfortable for the children. Below: Designer and founder of Mole, Hanne Synnøve Koløy.

A national romantic woollen success Rooted in childhood memories and the ‘grandparent feeling’, the Norwegian designer Hanne Synnøve Koløy and her brand Mole, Little Norway are taking the world by storm. Her beautiful, ethical wool collections are now warming up youngsters from Norway to Japan.

By Celine Normann | Photos: Geir Gismervik

“It is incredible how people have taken Mole to heart. I think it comes down to our vision of creating clothes that are amazingly comfortable, while at the same time look fashionable and nice,” says Koløy.

Sustainable and pure The brand first saw the light of day four years ago when Koløy noticed a gap in the market. “I was looking for clothes for my own children but could not quite

find what I was looking for, so I decided to make it myself,” she says. The actual inspiration for her idea might have been a lack of options on the high street, but her visions could not have been further from sheer commerciality. “The essence of Mole is ethical. I am very focused on sustainability and the environment and wanted to produce clothes that are pure, natural and of high quality. In addition, the comfort level has to be second to none, especially as I am designing for children.”

The ‘grandparent feeling’ With this in mind Koløy started designing clothes for newborns to 12-year-olds using only organic wool. Her inspiration?

Also natural, loving and pure, of course.

“I find inspiration from my childhood memories, thinking back to the days when my grandparents taught me knitting and sewing. I think most people can relate to that feeling of security and love your grandparents provided. For me 16 | Issue 83 | December 2015

these memories, combined with nature, fairy tales and Norwegian traditions, are the best inspiration and are consequently evident in my design, from patterns and colours to cuts and fine details,” she says.

International woollen wave Koløy’s sincere approach is clearly successful, judging by Mole’s rocketing, rapid worldwide expansion, now delivering to places including Scandinavia, Germany, the USA and Italy, and all the way to Japan. With humble pride, the designer explains why she thinks that is. “Mole offers products different to those of mass production, with a recognisable, almost national romantic, charm. While woollen children’s clothes might never be über modern, we must be doing something right since fashion bloggers and experts are talking about Mole as a trending brand. I guess you could say Mole delivers old-fashion traditions in a new and trendy package, something people seem to literally be warming up to.”

For more information, please visit: www.mole.no

FOTO: SIREN LAUVDAL // STYLING: KRÅKVIK&D’ORAZIO

WIK & WALSØE In spi re d by S c a n di n a vi a n N a t u re

WWW.WIK-WALSOE.COM

Scan Magazine | Design | Made in Norway

Creating prize-winning wool textiles Even with clients including the NSB rail and bus transport group, architecture firm Snøhetta, the King of Saudi Arabia and Louis Vuitton, many have never heard of Gudbrandsdalen Uldvarefabrik (GU) – one of the leading wool textile producers in Scandinavia. It is about time they do.

By Maria Lanza Knudsen | Photos: Gudbrandsdalen Uldvarefabrik

130 years of textile production have honed GU’s expertise, creating a modern and design-conscious producer of quality textiles. “As the oldest mill in Norway, the factory is built on strong traditions,” says marketing director Margrethe Kielland, “but we wish to remain innovative.”

Today, the company is inventive in style as well as production, being one of the most environmentally friendly companies in Norway.

Textile production is a competitive sector globally, but the secret to GU’s success lies in its unrelenting focus on quality.

Additionally, few factories have the entire production in-house. GU does, ensuring quality control across the entire process. The high level of expertise is also the result of many employees – textile engineers, specialists and designers – having worked for the company for their entire career. GU’s 80 employees spin, 18 | Issue 83 | December 2015

weave, colour, wash and finally gloss the textiles before shipping to their numerous clients in Norway and abroad.

The most popular textile is Hallingdal, designed by the ‘The Grand Old Lady of Danish Design’, Nanna Ditzel, in 1965.

Over 300,000 metres of the fabric are sold annually. In total, over 5.5 million metres have been sold, enough to build a bridge across the Atlantic from London to New York.

When Louis Vuitton called to place an order, it came as a surprise to GU that Louis Vuitton’s creative director had chosen the blue Prinsdal textile to recreate legendary French furniture designer Pierre Paulin’s 18 futuristic sofa designs from the 1960s. In January, Wallpaper* magazine chose a picture of the sofa, made with GU’s textiles, for its cover.

GU hit the spotlight again when Dezeen, the reputable online architecture and design magazine, singled out designer StokkeAustad’s acoustic panels, Patch, using GU’s textiles. Meanwhile, in August, GU was the proud receiver of the Manufacturer of the Year award by design magazine Bo Bedre.

With an unrelenting focus on quality and original design, we can expect more recognition and prizes for GU in the future.

For more information, please visit: www.gu.no

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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

Above: The Tesserakt installation by artist Tine Aamodt, as part of the Fall Exhibition, which won the top prize in 2015 at Skien Art Association.

Below: The installation Superfluous Identity by the artists Martinka Bobrikova and Oscar de Carmen at Skien Art Association.

Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene:

The city of artists The south-eastern Nordic city of Skien, playwright Henrik Ibsen’s birthplace, has become a hotbed of artistic expression and cultural investment. Since 2006, Skien has been demonstrating its commitment to professional art through the programme Kunstnerbyen Skien. Various grants and initiatives have merged to revitalise Skien as a vibrant cultural city for generations to come, all in honour of Ibsen’s legacy.

unteering, with the support of one parttime administrator. Indeed, its 200 members are actively engaged in volunteer work, making the association a cultural benefactor in the area.

By Maria Lanza Knudsen | Photos: Skien Art Association

Every year, Skien Art Association arranges exhibitions for work created at its premises by Norwegian and foreign artists. In addition, a yearly touring exhibition, Telemarksutstillingen, features local artists from the Telemark county.

The exhibition has become a popular and engaging event within the region’s artistic community.

Situated in the cultural centre Ibsenhuset, Skien Art Association has a prime location in the heart of the city. An old establishment, it has been bringing together the town’s artists since its establishment in 1910. The association is

a membership-based art organisation that hosts exhibitions and other cultural events related to the arts.

“Our focus is on site-specific contemporary art,” manager Tone Holmen clarifies. “We host a range of activities, including socially relevant projects with groups we have not previously worked with.” To this end, in 2015, Skien Art Association partnered with groups supporting refugees.

Although Ibsenhuset attracts over 120,000 visitors annually, Skien Art Association is run mainly through vol-

20 | Issue 83 | December 2015

The artistic project space Down the road and over a bridge to the island Klosterøya, is the Spriten Project Space. The art establishment was launched in 2007, as part of the Kunstnerbyen Skien initiative, in an impressive old factory that previously produced rubbing alcohol, or spirits. The

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

purpose of the Spriten Project Space is to serve as a location for artists to work and to provide grants.

“We are a producing art space,” manager Tom Erik Lønnerød explains. “This means that we provide space for artists to produce art, to test new types of art productions and installations, and to exhibit their work at Spriten.”

The organisation works across various forms of artistic expression and welcomes audiences to theatrical productions, concerts and visual art exhibitions.

Currently, Spriten is accommodating the concert series Nylyd, meaning new sound, which hosts monthly performances for improvised music. Another pursuit is the Spriten publishing house, established by the author Mette Karlsvik, with the aim of publishing books associated with the activities and performances of Spriten Art Space and the Kunstnerbyen Skien initiative.

Photo: Klas Eriksson

Photo: Telemark Art Centre

The region’s art centre As a regional art organisation, Telemark Art Centre is a resource centre that supports experimental contemporary art across the county of Telemark. It is also part of the national artist-run Association of Art Centres in Norway, which has 15 members. Through this national network, Telemark Art Centre links the county’s talented individuals with professional artists across the country. It also carries out certain functions on behalf of Arts Council Norway, the governmental body for Norwegian cultural policy, such as awarding grants to public and private organisations seeking funding for art initiatives.

“Everything we do is about art,” says director and curator Ida Bringedal. “We pride ourselves on being an inclusive institution aimed at excluding no one.” Art productions are held at its premises, the old Norges Bank building in Skien, as well as through touring exhibits such as Den kulturelle skolesekken, the cultural school backpack, which is a popular exhibition that visits schools to inspire students’ artistic creativity. Accommodating a range of exhibitions, the centre also

Photo: Dag Jenssen

gives the public access to an art bookstore and weekly artistic arrangements.

Children’s learning forms part of the centre’s focus on inclusivity, and it offers a weekly free-of-charge art club for kids.

The Migrant Societies initiative is the centre’s current big art project in collaboration with institutions and artists in the Midwest of the US. The three-year project promotes the exchange of art and ideas between Skien, Norway, and the twin cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul in Minnesota, USA.

Impressive inclusion through art Skien’s ability to offer such a wide arrangement of artistic activities, events and exhibitions across all the various forms of artistic expression is indeed impressive. What is most commendable is the inclusive offering – to the region’s many artists and their large audience alike. The three institutions will even host the national art festival in 2017, in partnership with the art hall Kunsthall Grenland in neighbouring Porsgrunn. It is

Photo: Ketil Hardy

Above left: The LOLERZ (++) installation by Klas Eriksson is part of the exhibition High on Low-Life from 2014 at Telemark Art Centre. Middle: Kids’ art club at Telemark Art Centre. Below: Matti Kallioinen’s installation The Nervous Manifold at Spriten Project Space, September 2015. Above right: Momentum performing at the Nylyd concert series at Spriten Project Space, September 2015.

clear that Skien has established itself not only on the Norwegian artistic landscape, but on that of Scandinavia as well, as a centre for artists and artistic expression.

FACTS: Three organisations are leading Skien’s artistic development through a range of activities, productions and expositions: Skien Art Association, Spriten Project Space and Telemark Art Centre, which has a regional span.

For more information, please visit: www.skienskunstforening.origo.no www.spriten.no www.telemarkkunstsenter.no www.visitgrenland.no

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 21

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

The Mountain.

In addition to her colourful artistry and innovative design studio INA Norway, Karina Siegmund also has her very own line of interior products inspired by nature. The brand new label is called [ B O S O ] and can be found at www.goboso.no

Nature in every thread Karina Siegmund describes herself as a collector of nature, always on the hunt for enchanting weather or captivating views to inspire her work. Whether it is shimmering ice crystals or the porous texture of the sky above, she manages to capture its natural essence upon her audio-visual tapestries in a way that is nothing short of dazzling.

Artist Karina Siegmund.

By Stine Lise Wannebo | Photos: Karina Siegmund

On Norway’s west coast, in a care home in Førde, the elderly residents talk about meeting ‘on the glacier’. Not everyone knows that what they really mean is meeting up in front of one of Karina Siegmund’s majestic installations, which is set up in the home’s grand auditorium.

This spectacular piece of craftsmanship consists of a bright blue tapestry, digitally handwoven to capture the solitary view from inside Jostedalsbreen, one of Norway’s most magnificent glaciers.

With a length of almost two metres, captivated spectators can truly dive into the weave’s ice-blue colours. The Glacier represents the experience the artist had when she rappelled down into one of the narrow cracks of this ancient natural phenomenon.

Karina Siegmund’s studios are situated in beautiful Stadlandet, a surfer’s para22 | Issue 83 | December 2015

dise at the western verge of the Norwegian mainland. This is where the busy artist, designer and weaver finds time and inspiration to work. She combines the traditional art of weaving with modern audio-visual media to make breathtakingly realistic installations of nature, weather and the elements. “The way that nature changes depending on the weather and the season is incredibly inspiring,” Siegmund smiles. “You never have the same experience twice.” By going out into the wild to film, record and explore her surroundings, she collects numerous pictures and sounds to use in her art. Often, a still from her footage provides the pattern for an intricate weave, onto which she projects the same moving motif. In her renowned installation, The Mountain, you can see the clouds move in real time above the snow-covered peak beautifully set out on the tapestry.

The Glacier.

Materials have always been important to Karina Siegmund’s artistry and she is known for her innovative and often experimental way of creating uniquely complex tapestries. “In The Mountain I used a flattened synthetic thread that reflects light rays to represent the shimmering ice crystals in the snow,” she explains. In 2012, she received the Talente Award for Best International Textile Art for emerging artists under the age of 33.

To learn more, please visit www.karinasiegmund.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

Left: Dorthe Herup. Photo: Irene Fagerlund Hansen. Middle and right: Pieces from the collection The Family Tree.

Woven photographic family beauty Inspired by old photographs, colours and fabrics, textile artist Dorthe Herup has woven abstract beauty and family portraits into tapestries for more than 30 years.

By Celine Normann | Photos: Dorthe Herup

“It is a blessing, being able to live off a passion. Some might call it oldfashioned, but tapestry is incredibly popular nowadays, very of the time. I have never considered a different career; making tapestries is what I love,” says Herup.

A way of life The Danish, now Norway-based, artist got her first hand-webbing device when she was 12. This was the beginning of her one-way ticket to a world of fabrics, linen and beautiful colours; she was instantly smitten. “I have always been passionate about textiles – it is in my blood. You need to make certain decisions in life, and this career path felt right for me. Sure, it can be challenging as it is a very timeconsuming investment considering the payback, but it is what I love. It is my way of life,” says Herup.

The family story The independent artist is currently working on a project she calls The Family Tree,

a project that sits close to her heart. “I got the idea when I became a grandmother and thought, what stories will the children learn about their great grandparents and other ancestors?” Herup explains. She then started digging up old family photographs hidden away in attics and basements, all the while nurturing an idea in her creative mind. “I wanted to tell the stories from the pictures through tapestry, and literally copy across the photographic expressions. This way our descendants can remember and also hopefully learn some of their ancestors’ life stories.”

in making sure that her work is in perfect synergy. “It is important to me that the theme I work with is in harmony with the technique. Hence, I experiment with a range of woven techniques and fabrics to achieve the right expression and colour balance.”

Herup’s unique art comes together driven by ideas of identity, thorough research and a curiosity around societal observations. “Being curious and observant of relationships around us can lead to surprising creations when translated into artistic pieces,” she says. “This makes it both challenging and exciting to work as a textile artist.”

From China to America The Family Tree now consists of seven tapestries, and the aim is a collection of ten to 12 pieces. “I have already travelled the world exhibiting some pieces, from China to America and across Europe. The aim is to finish the collection so I can exhibit them all together,” Herup says. The experienced artist takes pride

Photo: Irene Fagerlund Hansen.

To learn more, please visit www.dortheherup.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 23

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

Above left: Lars Magnus – 2011. Middle: Thomas og huset på Ask – 2013. Textile collage of Tomas Espedal, noted Norwegian author. Top right: Jørund – 2010.

Bottom right: Molotovcocktail – 2012. Images by: Karina Nøkleby Presttun.

Weaving artistic excellence Textile art has long been on the rise in Norway, and leading the way are young and ambitious artists whose oeuvres are slowly but surely weaving their way into art history. Professionally trained and passionately curious about topics that can be explored through the threads are Karina Nøkleby Presttun and Kristina Daukintyte Aas. Next year will see the two collaborate on a brand new exhibition, further establishing their strengths as ground-breaking contemporary talents.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Karina Nøkleby Presttun & Kristina Daukintyte Aas

“I started making clothes in my teens, but they just grew weirder and weirder as time went on,” laughs Presttun. “In the end I guess that turned into more figurative textile art, and I started exploring that in depth. Today I work in both 2D and 3D, constantly looking for new ways to challenge myself and my artistic thinking.”

Aas also started out making fashion, albeit not as eccentric pieces, and explains that she has found it equally important to try out various ways of expressing her own creativity through textiles. “I feel like what I’m essentially doing is combining the knowledge of the weaving craft, which is thousands of years old, with various expressions of modernity. That union between an ancient craft and modern technologies 24 | Issue 83 | December 2015

– such as video and photography, which I’ve often utilised – is one I’m very interested in,”she says.

Intriguing contrasts – and men in gowns The artists, who met nine years ago when studying at Bergen National Academy of the Arts, may be cordial colleagues in terms of artistic categorisation, but their portfolios demonstrate some intriguing contrasts alongside the more tangible similarities. Akin to every artist’s success is also a slice of media buzz, something both have encountered throughout their comparatively short but impressive careers.

Presttun especially has been noted in the press for her textile collages depicting men in dresses – raising questions

of interpretational and even political character. “That idea came to me and some friends after a few beers,” she says laughing. “In the end they turned out to be some of my more media-covered works, especially when shown abroad.” The project had Presttun shop for dresses with a few male friends, before photographing them in the garments and building appliqué textile collages on the resulting photographic background. “I can’t say that I had any intention of making a grand feminist or at all political statement, but in hindsight I can see how such a message can be derived from these particular pieces. I think they convey a positivity and acceptance that have largely been met with a lot of encouragement.”

Layers of reality – draping the world Aas explains that while her works are often based on an understanding for digital methods, similarly to Presttun’s use of photography, she is more inclined towards weaves, draping and sculptural textile art than collages. “I really like exploring themes that relate to our understanding of reality and our surroundings, and ‘translating’ them on to different surfaces. Different textures, techniques

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

and yarns have different impacts on us as perceivers of art. Convening those abstract layers of reality with physical layers of fabrics can be very satisfying,” she says.

She believes that her and Presttun’s visions intersect somewhere around intuition and accessibility, making the colleagues a perfect fit in their discipline. “We both work in a very intuitive way. We don’t necessarily have a clear thematic outline for each project, but I think we’re comfortable letting that identity evolve as we go. I’m also very proud that neither of us strives to ‘over-intellectualise’ our work. We always bring it down to earth, trying to make it approachable to our audience.”

Both artists are excited to exhibit their work at a joint showcase in Hamar next year, at Kunstbanken – Hedmark Kunstsenter, where they hope to present shared work in addition to their individual pieces. “It’ll be an interesting meeting point,” says Aas. “It will surely test us, but I’m convinced we’ll be able to present an interesting dialogue, or bridge, between our creative expressions.” Presttun is equally optimistic. “I look forward to filling the 170-square-metre space with innovative, quality textile art – and showing its potential to a greater audience.”

Bridging creative expressions While Presttun explains that the strive towards accessibility has often made her favour figurative expressions, depicting people in a realistic or photographic sense, she wants to progress into creating more sculptural textile art. “I’m trying to find a direction working in three dimensions, and it’s very exciting. The hope is to still have an impact on people even if the pieces turn out more abstract,” she says.

For more information, please visit: www.karinapresttun.no www.kristina-aas.com

Entertwine, the joint exhibition of Karina N. Presttun and Kristina D. Aas, opens at Kunstbanken – Hedmark Kunstsenter on 3 September 2016.

Top left: Leakage.

Below left: On the other Side. Middle: Bugs.

Right: Wires. Below right: Aas working on a new piece. Images on this page by: Kristina Daukintyte Aas, pictured above left.

Left: Karina Nøkleby Presttun

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 25

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

Colourful imprints on the world Having worked with textile materials for more than 20 years, mainly as one of Norway’s very first artists employing digital textile prints, Ingunn Bakke has made a respected name for herself in artistic circles. Next year sees the colourful artist showcase her work at her second solo exhibition in Berlin, furthering her mission to explore new possibilities of prints and digital media.

By Julie Lindén Combining new technology with ancient materials has always been a penchant of Bakke’s.

“My background is in visual art with a specialisation in textile printing, so the transition to making an artistic expression out of that was always close at hand,” she says, underlining that her education in the properties of various textiles has been paramount in her choice to work with full, vibrant colours. “I actually worked only in white for a long time. I guess the antidote to that became immersing myself into a full range of hues, aided by the use of colour charts and various colour systems. Today I find that bright and show-stopping colours work best in conveying my vision.”

Bakke has been busy exhibiting her vision through numerous showcases over the past years, and 2016 will add another bullet point to the already impressive CV. AxGallery Berlin will host her next solo exhibition, where she will show works of transparent colour prints on silk, glass and God Jul Annons ScanMag copy.pdf 1 2015-11-16 17:47:06 the finest veneer of birch.

Sensations of colour.

Digital print on glass and silk. Photo: Saied Sharif.

When I think of a color, is it then a part of me.

Digital print on silk. Photo: Gjemund Dammen.

Ingunn Bakke: • A pioneer in the artistic use of digital textile print in Norway.

• Employed as a workshop manager in textile printing at Oslo National Academy of the Arts.

• Bakke exhibits her work in Norway and abroad.

• Solo exhibition at AxGallery Berlin, Kirchstrasse 25, Moabit in June 2016. www.ingunnbakke.com

Digital print on silk. Photo: Øystein Thorvaldsen.

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Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Nordic Culinary Delights

Jouko Rajanen, (above) owner of Choco Deli, is always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to use chocolate and create unusual taste combinations.

Choco Deli’s chocolates, cakes and breads are handmade from scratch and use the highestquality ingredients.

Nordic Culinary Delights:

Chocolatey passion for Lapland Choco Deli is the world’s northernmost chocolaterie preparing handmade chocolates, cakes and breads. Its mission is to bring a little bit of central Europe to the heart of Finnish Lapland and challenge people’s taste buds with unusual combinations – starting with smoked-reindeer chocolate.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Arto Rajanen

In the early 2000s, ambitious chef Jouko Rajanen took the plunge and founded Choco Deli in Rovaniemi, Finland. “Initially, the business started out more like a hobby: I was operating from my garage until I set up the shop in the centre of Rovaniemi in 2012. I was a qualified chef and wanted to do something different – very few people know how to make good-quality chocolate,” he says.

Choco Deli’s taste combinations are bold and brave: from bilberry, birch and cloudberry to more unusual flavours.

“One of our most popular chocolate flavours is smoked reindeer,” Rajanen

says. “The biggest challenge is working with the chocolate itself – chocolate behaves widely differently depending on different factors, such as temperature and humidity, so it can be really challenging. Our selection changes according to season and customer demand, and we are always developing new and even tastier combinations. And the colour of the chocolates and cakes must complement the taste.”

Besides chocolate, the deli also specialises in bread, cakes and traditional pastries from Lapland. “Each of our chocolates, cakes and breads is handmade

from scratch and we use only natural, good-quality ingredients. All of our creations offer a unique taste experience.

Our cakes can be customised according to customers’ wishes and they have all been created with chocolate as a basis,” Rajanen explains. “As everything is handmade, making the chocolates and cakes takes time, up to a few days. We put a lot of care and attention into our products.”

It seems a quaint chocolate shop in the middle of the city was all that Rovaniemi needed: Choco Deli has built up a loyal following and supplies thousands of cakes and chocolates country-wide. “I am always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to use chocolate and interesting taste combinations,” says the chocolatier.

For more information, please visit: www.chocodeli.fi

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 27

Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Nordic Culinary Delights

That place on the corner Christoffer Søgaard is the astonishingly young entrepreneur behind Blød Hat: a rustic corner wine bar and eatery that is all about quality, authenticity and a warm, cosy atmosphere. If you want to eat, drink, socialise or party – or all of the above – in central Copenhagen, this is the place to be.

ing, cosy atmosphere that will exceed our guests’ expectations. The place has a kind of warm environment that is relaxed and sociable.”

By Maya Acharya | Photos: Blød Hat

quirky lighting. The place is full most of the day: leisurely brunches in the daytime, candlelit dinners and wine in the evening, then cocktails and dancing when the mood is right.

Wine is something that Søgaard knows a great deal about, having worked for Copenhagen’s oldest wine shop when he was just 18, a year after he set up his first business, Kœlderen 13: an intimate cellar venue that offers tailor-made settings for all kinds of events.

“We’re all about giving people a genuine experience,” explains Søgaard, the 23-year-old founder and manager of Blød Hat. “We value organic, highquality ingredients and good wine. The menu changes from day to day. What we really care about is providing a welcom-

“That’s when I first got the idea of a restaurant that could cooperate well with the cellar, providing catering for the events and supporting other events in the industry,” Søgaard elaborates. The restaurant is located on the corner of one of Copenhagen’s most historic streets.

Aside from the fact that Blød Hat (literally translated as ‘Soft Hat’) has the goods to merit a visit, it does not hurt that the relatively new restaurant and wine bar happens to be in an excellent location.

Situated in a spacious cellar in the midst of Copenhagen’s historic centre, it is indeed a hidden gem.

Stepping in, it feels a lot like a rustic cavern with a sleek, Scandinavian twist.

There are long tables, wooden panels, comfy velvet couches, old brick walls and 28 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Nordic Culinary Delights

Business dinners and basement baptisms Today, Søgaard runs both Blød Hat and Kœlderen 13. “I have passion for both places. Regarding the cellar, I put a lot of energy into making sure that guests get a fine-tuned experience, whether in regards to décor, food or music. Basically anything that the guests want, we can provide. I also really like the diversity of the people that you meet.”

The venue has hosted all kinds of events, from business dinners and meetings to birthdays. Søgaard anecdotally recalls a time when they hosted a baptism-turned-party that went on way into the wee hours because the guests were having so much fun.

Learning by doing So far, both Kœlderen 13 and Blød Hat have been met with rave reviews. The restaurant in particular is a warm, welcoming oasis amongst the harsh tourist tactics of the eateries in Copenhagen’s centre. But contrary to what the success of Søgaard’s current ventures might suggest, the restaurant business was something he just fell into. “When I was little, I used to write lists of things I wanted to do in life,” he recounts. “Owning a restaurant wasn’t really on the list, but I think you learn what you want to do along the way.”

Despite being at the start of his career, Søgaard seems genuinely aware of the values that are important to him. “What I do care about is good food and a good atmosphere. I’m motivated because I’m part of something that I enjoy; I get to be in an environment where people are actually happy and having fun,” he says.

Søgaard also refers to the staff as more of a family, where everyone has each other’s back. Many of them enjoy hanging out at the restaurant in their free time. “It’s important to me that my staff are happy,” he says.

When asked about future plans, the answer is similarly sharp: “My focus at the moment is to run my two businesses to perfection before considering moving towards an expansion.”

For more information and bookings, please visit: www.blødhat.com www.kælderen13.dk

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 29

Scan Magazine | Mini Theme | Nordic Culinary Delights

Real crispbread with sourdough Sourdough is increasingly becoming a trend on the Scandinavian and British markets, possibly because of its delicious and aromatic flavour. For FINN CRISP, this comes as no surprise.

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: FINN CRISP

The FINN CRISP brand was established in 1952, and its recipe for crispbread has almost stayed untouched since then. The heart and soul of the crispbread is in a live sourdough starter.

Sourdough is made by leaving a portion of dough overnight, causing naturally occurring bacteria and yeasts to initiate fermentation. “Using sourdough gives a completely unique savoury taste, not to mention the texture of our crispbreads: a perfectly crunchy feel,” says Andrew Crumpton, representative of FINN CRISP in the UK. In other words, it is no wonder that FINN CRISP is still popular to this day.

The recipe is simple: only wholegrain rye flour, yeast and a little bit of salt. But to create the perfect thin crisps, you have to 30 | Issue 83 | December 2015

add time and warmth as well. Just imagine the positive impact of 63 years of time and experience on FINN CRISP’s thins. “Hurrying helps nothing, which is also why FINN CRISP is allowed to ferment slowly, not once but twice,” says Crumpton proudly.

“What I like the most is that FINN CRISP can be enjoyed just as it is or with a little bit of butter – it makes it an easy snack,” explains Crumpton, who always has the red signature package next to him on his desk for whenever his stomach begs for more.

FINN CRISP can be enjoyed with many different toppings. Some like it with cheese, others sprinkled over an autumn salad. Crumpton’s own favourite topping is fish pâté, most likely smoked

mackerel, with a little dash of horseradish. “They just really complement each other,” he says but adds that there is no limit to the number of ways in which to enjoy your FINN CRISP. “I have heard some funny stories over the years, like how people put melted chocolate on top. It might sound surprising but it actually tastes really good!”

In Sweden, an entire hotel honouring sourdough has just been opened, an example of how trendy sourdough really is.

But why go through the trouble? FINN CRISP is an easy snack, tasty and already there for you to buy in Waitrose, Tesco, ASDA and Sainsbury’s.

For more information, please visit: www.finncrisp.com

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Photos: Sorrisniva | Design: frikant.no

T H E TA STE O F NO RTHER N NORWAY

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Sofia Helin

Sofia Helin: The actor who has it all “Some actors say that their characters don’t change them; I don’t know how they do that,” says Sofia Helin in earnest. She is talking about Saga Norén, her character in the Nordic Noir hit series The Bridge (currently showing on BBC4), who is going through a difficult time in the third series. Scan Magazine spoke to the Swedish actor about the return of Saga, the refugee crisis and making sense of being a public person.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Carolina Romare

Helin is convinced that playing the homicide detective with Asperger’s Syndrome has rewired her brain and changed her fundamentally. “When you start thinking like somebody else, you change. It’s been a good thing mainly, but this season is really sad, so I ended up navigating a lot of sorrow.”

Already during its second season, the crime drama had more viewers in the UK than its Nordic Noir cousins Borgen and The Killing, and when the third season kicked off last month, the first episode had a record 1.2 million live viewers.

The third instalment of the drama sees Saga assigned yet another murder investigation bridging the Öresund, this time without Martin Rohde by her side. “Saga loses her cool completely in this season, which makes it very interesting but also awful in a way,” says Helin. “That Martin is gone actually ended up being quite helpful. It made Saga so sad to begin with, which set the tone for me.”

Human nature

screen. In her first ever acting job as part of the hugely popular Swedish ‘90s soap opera, Rederiet, she played Minna, a girl who accused her father of having raped her. Also, in the film Masjävlar, she played Mia, who returns from Stockholm to Dalarna in Sweden to big expectations, questions of familial responsibility and a collision with her mother. This leading role won her a nomination for a Guldbagge, the Swedish equivalent of a BAFTA, in 2005.

Helin herself has a less complicated relationship with her roots. “My relationship with my childhood is good – processed but good,” she laughs. She grew up in Örebro in a family where, as she puts it, acting was far from the done thing. Yet the interest was always there for her. “I always acted, initially just playing,” she says. “It’s an inclination, it’s just who I am: I’ve always been interested in human nature, why we do certain things.” Before starting acting school, Helin enrolled on a university course in, as it is known in Sweden, ‘the history of ideas’, something she insists was far from irrelevant to her future career. “It became crucial. Familiarising with all the big philosophers made me expand my thinking.”

If the first season of The Bridge was dedicated to Martin’s personal demons, it is finally Saga’s turn this time. Among other things we get to meet her mother, with whom she has a complicated relationship, to put it mildly.

A way to endure

This is not the first time Helin has dealt with complex family relationships on

Evidencing a philosophical, bordering on political, streak, Helin recently used the promotional trail to speak up on the Issue 83 | December 2015 | 33

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Sofia Helin

In the third series of The Bridge, Saga loses her cool and deals with a lot of sadness.

current refugee crisis. “Sweden has a population of just over nine million, and we’ve taken 100,000 refugees or more,” she explains. “There are 64 million people, give or take, in the UK. They’re taking 6,000. It’s just not right.” At the time of writing, the Swedish government has just announced significantly stricter regulations but, rather than withdraw her pride, Helin decidedly points to the rest of Europe. “It’s sad that this is happening, but it was a crisis decision. Look at the rest of Europe – they’re not taking their fair share of responsibility. It’s an insanely small issue if you consider the potential impact: if all EU countries were in this together, it’s a one permille population increase to welcome all refugees.”

Recently appointed ambassador for WaterAid, a charity working globally to provide access to safe water and sanitation, Helin describes her dedication as “a way to make sense of being a pub34 | Issue 83 | December 2015

lic person”, a part of the job otherwise seemingly pointless to her. “I see this unjust world and all the suffering – this is a way for me to do my bit. More and more, I guess, my commitment is a way to endure,” she says of her highly sensitive personality type. “My artistic streak, at the same time, is a positive effect of being this kind of person.”

A feminist role model Sensitive in an entirely different way, the highly autistic Saga Norén is blunt at best, and completely socially impossible at worst. But looking at a BBC Breakfast interview Helin and Bodnia did in 2014, the actor is not just a polar opposite of her character. The BBC interview had not even started when one of the two presenters felt the need to interrupt himself to ask what was going on with all the “pushing and shoving”. Helin pointed at Bodnia with his legs spread out, commenting on how men always ‘manspread’. “I couldn’t stand seeing myself sitting like this,” she

said, showing what she meant by crossing her legs and demonstratively taking up less space. “Spread your legs, okay, come on!” she urged the female host, who looked across the set in a panic.

Helin mimicking Saga, or just typical Swedish outspokenness? “I actually shocked myself when I did that on the BBC – I’m normally quite diplomatic,” she says. “I love London, but I always feel exhausted just looking at the women in their uncomfortable clothes and everything. She looked so uptight, I felt completely sapped.” Understandable, perhaps, coming from the woman playing Saga, a character dubbed a feminist role model and one which, surely, would not have been as talked-about had the detective been a man. “No,” Helin says with certainty. “Saga has a lot of traits that we would typically describe as manly.

Also, the combination of her personality and my way of shaping her on screen makes for quite an interesting mix.”

Scan Magazine | Cover Feature | Sofia Helin

‘I have everything’ She apologises as she jumps into a taxi.

“Let’s go, Arlanda Airport,” she tells the driver, excusing herself: “I’m doing an interview, that’s why I’m on the phone.”

She is off to continue the recording of Berlin – Der Geteilte Himmel (Berlin – The Divided Heaven), a German-British co-production by Oscar-winning Hollywood director Oliver Hirschbiegel. “I’m playing a British-Swedish woman who lives in Berlin, working for the British army, and falls victim for a Romeo agent – a woman who has been betrayed and is working hard to maintain her dignity,” says Helin. “It’s something completely different. I won’t know myself!”

Asked what three wishes she would ask a genie in a bottle, she barely hesitates before composing a list of altruisms. “I would wish for the war in Syria to be over.

I would ask for a miracle so that all the children in the world get access to clean water, because 1,400 children die every day because of dirty water, and that’s just appalling. And finally, I’d wish for a genius to come up with a solution so that we could stop destroying our world.” Nice words – but then Helin goes blunt: “I’m not saying it to be nice. I’m being crass,” and it is almost as if Saga emerges for a moment. Helin ends in the same earnest way she started. “I don’t wish for anything else – I have everything: I have two healthy children, a job, a home… I’m not being humble, I’m just so incredibly privileged that it would be arrogant to ask for more.”

"I've always been interested in human nature, why we do certain things," says Helin about her choice to become an actor.

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 35

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Highlights of Norway’s Art Scene

Helsinki Day Spa’s signature treatments include ayurvedic massage, body treatments and manicures as well as a number of tailored facial and spa treatment.

Photos above left and below: Riitta Sourander. Photos above right: Cecilia Melin.

Indulgent pampering sessions and modern skin therapies Feel like you need a moment of peace in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle?

Helsinki Day Spa’s aim is to nourish the mind, body and soul. Founded in 2005, the spa is one of the largest in Finland and the country’s first urban spa, located a few steps away from the busy streets of Helsinki city centre.

formed in the medical facility, and separate regular maintenance mesotherapy, IPL-light and peeling treatments in the spa,” says Uibu.

By Ndéla Faye

“Our strength is in our unique expertise in skin care. Our highly qualified professional massage therapists and aestheticians are able to advise on the best treatments for each customer. Coupled with the spa’s luxurious setting, the experience is perfect for busy clients who would like to step away from the city’s bustle – we take them beyond the daily grind and warmly welcome all visitors!”

Uibu concludes.

“The idea of the city spa is to bring a moment of peace and calm into customers’ busy daily lives. Our mission is to bring wellbeing to the mind and body,” says Toomas Uibu, managing director of Helsinki Day Spa. “It is important that customers are able to relax and leave their everyday stresses behind.”

ber of tailored facial and spa treatment packages. “There are 11 treatment rooms at Helsinki Day Spa and our exceptionally beautiful spa recreation lounge, protected by Finland’s National Board of Antiquities, is the perfect setting for customers to relax and enjoy a cup of tea,” Uibu explains.

Helsinki Day Spa employs over 20 wellness professionals, including trained cosmetologists and professional massage therapists, who provide a range of facial and body treatments. The spa offers modern, effective and safe skin therapies combined with pampering.

Helsinki Day Spa works in partnership with Ihoakatemia, the leading clinic of aesthetic dermatology in Finland. “Collaborating with Ihoakatemia allows us to achieve great long-term results when working with customers with various needs and skin conditions, and we always work closely with dermatologists. The latest trend for us is not to run a medical spa but to schedule a comprehensive beauty programme, including some annual effective medical treatments per-

In addition to indulgent pampering sessions, the spa’s signature treatments include ayurvedic massage, body treatments and manicures as well as a num36 | Issue 83 | December 2015

For more information, please visit: www.dayspa.fi

Scan Magazine | Business Profile | Da favola

Arranging your dream wedding in Italy Italy is a love story on its own, full of lovely vineyards, world class food and even a language that encourages romance. No wonder it has become a popular destination for weddings – and Da favola is a brilliant choice for anyone in need of help with anything from the venue to the place cards.

By Helene Toftner | Photos: Da favola

Da favola means fairy tale, instantly giving you an idea of what to expect. The wedding planning company helps customers from across Europe host their dream wedding in Italy, mainly in Tuscany and Liguria but also in Umbria and Rome. “People of all ages and backgrounds come to us. The thing they have in common is a desire to do something different in beautiful surroundings,” founder Katrine Brastad says, mentioning a vineyard in Tuscany or a ceremony by the lake as examples of popular requests.

The Norwegian moved to Italy 11 years ago and never looked back. Seven years later, she started Da favola with the desire to share the magical places she had come across over the years. While venue scouting is crucial, she offers the whole package including transport, photographer and excursions. “Coming here is about much more than just the wedding day. The couple and their guests usually stay for days, and we arrange activities and dinners in addition to the big day itself,” says Brastad.

For more information, please visit: www.dafavola.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 37

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Photo: Henrik Trygg

38 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Photo: Fredrik Broman

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Swedish Winter Wonderland:

A winter wonderland full of activities Winter in Sweden is full of activities. Go skiing, ice-skating, dog-sledding or snow mobiling or, for a quieter and more relaxing time, why not relax in a hot tub underneath the northern lights or go husky sledding wrapped up in a warm blanket?

archipelagos are also great places to ice skate – just check with the locals first to make sure you are safe.

By Anna Hjerdin, communications manager at VisitSweden | Photos: Lola Akinmade Åkerström

If you love skiing, Sweden has a handful of great resorts stretching from Riksgränsen at the Arctic Circle in the far north, down the backbone of the Swedish mountains in the north-west and then east into the county of Dalarna. Most ski resorts guarantee snow between Christmas and Easter, and at Riksgränsen you can still ski in May. Åre is not just Sweden’s but northern Europe’s biggest ski resort, offering skiing and a wide variety of other sports and activities to suit every possible preference and level of skill.

For a proper winter wonderland, head north in Sweden during the winter months. Here you can try an exhilarating snowmobile safari. These can be tailored to include wilderness lunches, dinner in Sámi teepees, saunas, hot tubs, mountain lodges, campfires and ice fishing to give you the full winter wonderland experience. For the ultimate cosy winter experience, wrap up warm and go dog sledding. Winter adventures do not get much more real or exotic than mushing your own team of huskies underneath the northern lights in Swedish Lapland.

Speaking of northern lights, did you know that Swedish Lapland is one of the best

places, if not the best place, in the world to see the northern lights? The Aurora Sky Station in the Abisko mountains is, according to Lonely Planet, the world’s top place to observe this light phenomenon. To get some amazing shots to show your friends you can join a photography course to learn how to take that perfect northern lights photograph. New for 2016 is the Aurora Festival in Björkliden, the first ever festival dedicated to the northern lights.

Sweden is a trip skater’s icy dream: crisp, cold winters and almost 100,000 lakes and rivers, many of which freeze over in wintertime. Sweden’s coastline with the

For more information, please visit: www.visitsweden.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 39

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

A big city in an alpine village costume For over 100 years, Åre Bergbana has been bringing tourists up the mountain from Åre town square all the way to Fjällgården (the Fell Farm), and still today the funicular railway remains at the heart of what is now northern Europe’s largest and most advanced alpine resort. Voted Sweden’s best ski resort for the third year in a row at the World Ski Awards last month, Åre is unquestionably phenomenal – yet there is more to life in Åre than skiing.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Niclas Vestefjell

Being the best and biggest is all well and good, but what does it mean in real terms? For starters, there are slopes for all kinds of skiers, always maintained to perfection. Åre Björnen offers a selection of slopes suitable for beginners, naturally attracting plenty of families with children, and the next step is Duved with its mix of easy to intermedium challenges.

Those keen on powder and forest skiing will enjoy Tegelfjäll, while Blåstensbranten is superbly steep, offering huge scope for hardcore freeriders. “Central Åre is unique with skiing opportunities both above and below the tree line as well as incredibly fun and challenging off-piste,” says Therese Sjölundh, CEO of Destination Åre.

40 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Of course, Åre would not have been chosen to host so many global alpine competitions if it was not a world-class skiing destination. The resort has been host to numerous Alpine World Cups since 1969, the 99th and 100th taking place on the 12th and 13th of this month, and last year it pulled off the feat of holding the events after no more than two weeks’ notice, due to lack of snow at the original host resort, Val d’Isère in France. Next up is the 2019

Photo: Werséns.

FIS Alpine World Championship, and the preparations are already in full swing.

“The hands of the entire village are on deck,” says Sjölundh. “Duved has got itself a new snow-making cannon system and new lighting, and the main slope has been widened. All these efforts are massively adding to the experience here – not just for the athletes, but starting today.”

A year-round, multifaceted experience Perhaps the idea of all hands on deck and shared benefits is one of Åre’s key strengths. “The village is full of momentum and lovely people,” Sjölundh enthuses. “Åre is alive all year round: it’s big enough to have everything you need, yet small enough to keep that village feel and atmosphere.” While located some dis-

Photo: Jonas Kullman.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Photo: Hummelstugan.

tance away from Sweden’s major cities, communications to and from Åre are very good, and more and more people choose to combine careers with the outdoor lifestyle on offer. “Just in the last two weeks, four families have been in touch with me regarding plans to move here,” says Sjölundh. “We’re so much more than a ski and tourist destination.”

The official population of Åre is a modest 1,300, yet the village boasts more than 50 restaurants, many of them run by award-winning chefs, eight of which are listed in the White Guide. Fäviken Magasinet, run by chef Magnus Nilsson, was named the second best restaurant in the Nordics only last month. Take the spectacular alpine setting, a mountainous view and a cosy village vibe and add flavours from all the world’s culinary traditions, and you will understand why Åre has been described as a big city in an alpine village costume.

When tired feet need a break from ski boots, there is history, culture and fun to keep even the most ambitious adventurer busy. As early as the 1100s, thousands of pilgrims stopped in Åre on their way to Saint Olav’s grave in Nidaros, and when

the Åre tourist information office opened in 1891 it was under the slogan of a ‘climatic spa resort’. “There are a number of great spas here,” says Sjölundh, “and wellness more generally is big. 2016 also marks the tenth anniversary of Work Out Åre, a big annual fitness event.” While there are walking tours specifically dedicated to telling Åre’s history, many of the activity providers throw in an element of history too, including Camp Åre’s zip-line tours. A must-see for akvavit fans is the Buustamons Distillery.

Summer visitors and permanent residents alike can enjoy fishing for trout or taking the cable cars to the very top of Åreskutan for a stroll with stunning views all the way to Toppskutan, famous among other things for its waffles. Those with surplus energy can head straight for Åre Bike Park, named the fourth best bike park in the world in 2013. “Yes, Åre is an absolutely amazing alpine resort – that’s indisputable. But talking about Åre as a ski resort plain and simple leaves out so much. It’s the complete package, the year-round, multifaceted experience, that makes Åre magical,” says the CEO. One last tip? “Night skiing on the VM8. Be there ready to go as the evening session

starts and you get to experience the fresh slope. It’s a pretty amazing feeling to set off down the slope under the strong LED lights as the rest of the resort is hidden in midwinter darkness.”

ÅRE IN BRIEF: Height of Åreskutan: 1,420 metres above sea level Maximum drop: 890 metres Hiking trails: 20 trails ranging from 1.2 to 24 kilometres Cycling trails: 30 trails, about 40 kilometres downhill Lifts: 42 in the winter, five in the summer Longest piste: 6.5 kilometres Groomed cross-country skiing trails: 92 kilometres Restaurants: More than 50 Bars and nightclubs: More than 15 Activities and sights: Trekking, cycling, paddling, horse riding, dog sledding, spa, zip-line, after skiing, shopping, chocolate factory, water park, schnapps tasting, ice climbing and much more.

For more information, please visit: www.are360.com/aredestination

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 41

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

The restaurant.

Photo: Nic Lehoux.

Photo: Jonas Kullman.

Winter wonders at the top of the slope Copperhill Mountain Lodge sits far up on the mountain, close to unharmed nature and with spectacular views, bringing an irresistible sense of freedom.

By Malin Norman

The hotel is located in northern Europe’s biggest ski resort, Åre, and is on top of what was a copper mine a hundred years ago. “What makes it so special is the closeness to nature. You can even see reindeer on the mountain,” says marketing manager Sara Ekdahl.

With ski slopes on one side, wilderness on the other and scenic views of Åre village and mountain, it makes an unforgettable impression.

The striking building stands out with its contemporary design developed by famous architect Peter Bohlin, the man behind Apple stores and Bill Gates’ private mansion. Here, he has designed a modern structure with a stunning 30-metre copper wall in the entrance, and used materials such as pinewood and slate from the local area.

A member of Design Hotels, Copperhill promotes sustainable design whilst taking into consideration the heritage of the historic location. It has been named Best Ski Hotel in Sweden at the World Ski 42 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Awards and received numerous awards from TripAdvisor. This is Bohlin’s only building in Scandinavia so far. “We were incredibly lucky,” says Ekdahl. “He has created a modern design classic.”

Snowy adventures and lavish experiences For many visitors, the main attraction apart from the hotel itself is the northern lights. But Åre also offers a wide range of exciting outdoors activities, such as ice rally, snowmobiling, horse riding, and of course world-class skiing. Ekdahl also recommends a visit to the Tännforsen waterfall or the chance to experience Sámi culture and get up close with reindeer at the Sámi camp Njarka.

Copperhill is a top-class full service hotel with two restaurants, a popular lounge bar with live performances, a ski shop and a kids’ club. The beautiful spa with pools, hot springs and panoramic views of the mountain has been named Europe’s Best Spa at the European Hotel Design Awards. And for a truly luxurious

experience, visitors can rent the exclusive 700-square-metre villa with room for up to 16 people and services such as a private chef. Åre is easily accessible for international travellers, only 130 kilometres from Trondheim airport, and guests can reach the hotel via bus, taxi, rental car or even with a short helicopter ride.

For more information, please visit: www.copperhill.se

Photo: Jonas Kullman.

The lobby.

Photo: Nic Lehoux.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

A mindful Sámi photo adventure “I’ve seen the northern lights many thousands of times, but it’s just as magnificent every time,” says Ylva Sarri, and her business partner Anette Niia adds: “Getting to be a part of people’s first experience of the northern lights is amazing.” Together, they run Scandinavian Photoadventures, bringing guests out into the wilderness and teaching them to photograph the northern lights, wildlife and everything in between.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Jove Guttorm

The two women grew up in the same valley in Swedish Norrbotten, but it was photography that brought them together. “Photography became a way for me to show people my country, my life, my history,” says Sarri. “That, in addition to bringing people places they can’t go on their own, is what motivates us.”

The pair started taking guests out on daily photo excursions focusing on the northern lights and wildlife, and while there were other photography tour providers around, they knew that they were different. “We grew up here, we have the Sámi background, all our guides are Sámi and our families and children are involved. We’re on our territory,” Sarri explains.

“Moreover,” adds Niia, “there are mainly male photographers up here. Men focus

so much on technical terminology, but their jargon can be quite intimidating for women. The creativity is not in the technology anyway, but in your idea. We focus on what you want to do and then help you do it.” One realisation led to another, and the idea of a girls-only four-day photography tour in the Kebnekaise mountains complete with yoga and local food sampling was born.

While Scandinavian Photoadventures offers a range of short and long excursions, including overnight treks and destinations near and far, it is still the daily northern lights tours that are the most popular. “With just a 15-minute drive to the locations, we can spend more time actually experiencing and capturing the northern lights,” says Niia. “But the other day tours are popular as well, for example watching wild animals up close,

enjoying a Sámi dinner under the northern lights or visiting Sweden’s highest mountains in the Kebnekaise area.”

Common for all excursions is that the camera comes along, but your level of experience is irrelevant: beginners get all the support they need while more experienced photographers can learn new tricks. Moreover, all tours are united by the guides’ knowledge and love of the Sámi culture and the surrounding nature. Niia cites the most common first reaction. “‘Wow, look at that starry sky – and it’s so quiet!’,” she laughs. “It’s pure mindfulness.”

For more information, please visit: www.scandinavianphotoadventures.com

Photo: Anette Niia

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 43

A different kind of life Take an area the size of two-thirds of Belgium, but populated by no more than 5,000 people, and a distinct lack of public transport, and you get a very different kind of place indeed. Add a history as a Sámi trading gateway, and a picture of Sweden’s northernmost province, Jokkmokk, starts to emerge.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Therese Rydström

“When you take the kicker to school instead of the bus or commuter train, it makes for quite a different life,” says Per Olof Lindroth, CEO of Destination Jokkmokk and a native of the town. “This roadless, vast landscape without subways or anything like that – it leads to a local knowledge among the people who live here that’s hard to come by elsewhere in Europe.”

es. Today, the market attracts more than 40,000 visitors every February, offering three days of not just stalls full of Sámi crafts, design and delicacies, but also hundreds of events including reindeer feeding, storytelling in a lavvu tent and northern lights hunts, giving visitors a chance to experience the full breadth of life above the Arctic Circle.

Jokkmokk is best known today for the Jokkmokk Winter Market, an annual tradition with over 400-year-old roots, dating back to a time when the Swedish Crown wanted to strengthen state control of the indigenous Sámi population with the added benefit of collecting tax-

Of course, life in Jokkmokk does not stop when the market ends. “The thing that really hits you when you get here is the presence of Sámi culture,” says digital communications officer Linnea Sigurdson. A visit to Jokkmokk, in other words, is a taste of Sámi life at its most

44 | Issue 83 | December 2015

The human angle

authentic: you can learn how to cook using ingredients found in the wilderness, enjoy a Sámi poem and a yoik – the traditional Sámi singing – or help out with the reindeer husbandry for a day. Then there is the not-to-be-missed Áttje Museum, telling the story of life in a demanding climate and environment.

“Our strength is in the people,” says Lindroth, “in these real characters who sit on so much history and knowledge that is completely unique to the area. We’re close to nature and naturally sustainable, like c/o Gerd, producing beauty products from local ingredients such as cloudberries, blueberries and lingonberries.”

A real arctic winter Naturally, experiencing the arctic winter with the northern lights and inches of snow is in itself a draw. “Just walking out in the midwinter darkness with a lantern in your hand, stepping through the snow and hearing it crunch – it’s easy to take

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

it for granted, but it’s wonderful,” says business and product developer Petra Holmbom. With a northern lights season of nine months, and one month of midnight sun every year, the sheer wonder of nature certainly should not be underestimated. Moreover, Jokkmokk is the first stop after crossing the Arctic Circle, situated right at the meeting point of four national parks that make up Laponia, the World Heritage Site.

Nature and snow were key to a stunt by a local hostel that garnered much attention during last year’s winter market.

Two snow sculptures designed to resemble huge snowballs were commissioned

by Villa Åsgård, complete with reindeer hides, double sleeping bags and fleece sheets to make for a highly unusual yet cosy accommodation experience. The ‘beds’, which came with a user manual, a flask with a hot drink and a breakfast buffet, were booked through an auction at the market.

humbling human angle to make the experience all the more special.

“Right now, the trees are covered in snow, torches are lighting up the main street and there are cressets in the roundabouts – it’s very much a picture perfect Christmas card,” says Sigurdson. By all means, visit the Jokkmokk Winter Market in February. But do not be fooled into thinking that you have to wait until then to follow in the footsteps of the Sámis and get to know a different kind of life.

For more information, please visit: destinationjokkmokk.se/en

Equally snow-dependent and highly anticipated is the first ever reenactment of a 220-kilometre ski race that first took place in 1884, as two local Sámis attempted to prove having skied uninterruptedly and without sleep for 60 hours across Greenland’s previously unexplored inland areas. 132 years later, on 10 April 2016, ski enthusiasts will embark on the world’s longest and toughest ski race, Nordenskiöldsloppet. All athletes who manage to beat Pavva-Lasse Nilsson Tuordas’ winning time from 1884 will be awarded a specially-designed medal in addition to Sámi food and other treats served up for all 500 participants.

In the footsteps of the Sámi While Nordenskiöldsloppet allows skiers to follow in the footsteps of previous generations of Sámis, not just figuratively but literally, what Jokkmokk as a whole offers could be described as a symbolic version of the same feat. From the chance to learn how to survive in the wilderness, to the opportunity to familiarise oneself with the many different flavours and treats that contributed to giving the town the Food Capital label in 2014, Jokkmokk is a winter wonderland indeed, but with a

Ahead of last year's winter market, Villa Åsgård commissioned two huge snowballs complete with sleeping bags and fleece sheets for a highly unusual accommodation experience.

Photo: Ewen Bell

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 45

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Inside Mora Church. Photo: Martin Litens

Icelandic award-winning pianist and creative director of Vinterfest, Víkingur Ólafsson. Photo: Ari Magg

Dalasinfoniettan.

Music that unveils new worlds Described by The Times as “a classical music festival that rocks”, Vinterfest in Dalarna is back in February, combining freezing winter weather, thousands of candles and world-class classical instrumentalists to present ten avant-garde concerts on the theme of New Worlds.

Music Awards, will among other things perform a selection from his idol John Cage. These piano works will be played in a concert named The Prepared Mind, part of a three-in-one concert set.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Nikolaj Lund

“It was unlike any other festival I’d ever been to,” says Icelandic award-winning pianist Víkingur Ólafsson about his first impression of Vinterfest in 2011. “It’s like you don’t know where you are and it’s absolutely freezing and completely dark, and there are all these wonderful people from Dalarna organising this festival with the most amazing music.” Ólafsson, who has just taken over from Swedish star clarinetist Martin Fröst as creative director of the festival, will present his first ever Vinterfest programme on the theme of New Worlds this coming February. “Programming a festival is a special art form,” he says. “You can put on a concert, and that is interesting in itself. With something like ten concerts it certainly gets more interesting and becomes curating as you can play with ideas on a larger scale.”

46 | Issue 83 | December 2015

He chose his first theme with the aim of communicating that music should open up new worlds within us. The programme works with all kinds of über creative concepts, such as juxtapositions of a Richard Wagner lullaby with Steve Reich’s Violin Phase, in which two recorded violins are played back and slowly go out of sync.

The opening concert, Animal Worlds, is perhaps even more out there. “The concert explores how composers have been fascinated by nature from the Baroque era to the present day,” explains Ólafsson, “so there’s everything from mosquitos to whale song. Very Icelandic,” he laughs. “I wanted to have a dog as well but it didn’t work out in the end.” Ólafsson himself, who has been described as “born to play the piano” and won countless awards including four Musician of the Year prizes at the Icelandic

Over four days in venues ranging from churches and parks to a garage in Mora, Orsa and Älvdalen in the county of Dalarna, Vinterfest puts on a heart-warming celebration of classical music featuring the foremost instrumentalists of today.

“Philip Glass once said that ‘music is a place as real as any you’ve ever been to’, and he’s right,” says the creative director about the festival’s concept and location.

“My hope is that the festival will open up fascinating regions to the audience, that people will go away more curious about music they didn’t know they loved.”

For more information, please visit: www.vinterfest.se/english

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Professional photographer and founder of LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures, Peter Rosén.

The northern lights: seen through a lens, felt with the heart “Never give up,” says Peter Rosén, the man behind LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures.

The motto has followed him from a successful career in academia to one as a fulltime nature photographer today. It seems to have paid off: every single guest on all his multi-day aurora photography tours in the past three years has seen and captured the northern lights.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: Peter Rosén

“Walking across the tundra around midnight in the summer, realising that the sun is still well above the horizon – it’s such a wonderful experience,” says Rosén.

It is an experience that he now shares with visitors from all over the world. His company, LapplandMedia & PhotoAdventures, offers photo workshops for novices and veterans alike, bringing them out to his favourite spots for photographing in Swedish Lapland.

The workshop groups are small, leaving plenty of time and space for participants to ask questions, but Rosén explains that photography experience is only partly relevant in the context. “You might be a semi-professional, but when it comes to capturing the northern lights, everyone can do with mastering a few more tricks.”

Having published the book Aurora Borealis in Lapland, which has sold more than 7,000 copies in Swedish, English and German, Rosén is somewhat of a pioneer in the field of northern lights photography.

But the photo adventures are not only experienced through the camera lens. “We want to deliver genuine nature adventures in Swedish Lapland,” says Rosén.

“Our tours combine photography with experiences of the Sámi culture, wildlife, snowmobiling, dog sledding and reindeer sledding.

So how did Rosén go from associate professor in environmental research at Umeå University, to this? His work brought him to Abisko, where he fell in love with the magnificent mountains and striking wilderness. “Deep in my soul, I’m a nature photographer,” he smiles.

“I trusted my heart to lead the way.”

Wolf.

LAPPLANDMEDIA & PHOTOADVENTURES FACTS: LapplandMedia has been delivering images and photography workshops since 1995.

All Rosén’s guides are professional photographers hailing from Swedish Lapland, with at least 20 years’ experience and local knowledge.

LapplandMedia is sponsored by Canon and Manfrotto and part of the Canon School of Photography.

The company provides photo equipment for all workshop participants, suitable for all levels of experience.

LapplandMedia has been awarded the top score by all TripAdvisor users, giving the tours the Certificate of Excellence Award.

All guests on multi-day tours in the past three years have seen and captured the northern lights successfully.

The company provides photo workshops all year round, focused on the northern lights, wildlife, Sámi culture and the midnight sun.

For more information, please visit: www.lapplandphotoadventures.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 47

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

A classic winter oasis The traditional winter destination Trillevallen, in the Swedish mountains, is famous for its peaceful and friendly atmosphere and attractive combination of downhill and cross-country skiing on its doorstep.

By Malin Norman | Photos: Mats Lind

Located 25 kilometres south of Åre, close to both Trondheim and Östersund airports, Trillevallen offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and a great mixture of skiing and other activities all in one place. The resort is cherished especially among families for its wide, safe slopes, but larger groups and sports teams also come for conferences, training camps or pure relaxation. “Trillevallen is a real gem. It’s like a home away from home, with something for everyone to enjoy,” says CEO Cecilia Lind.

Visitors value not only the genuine alpine experience and serene environment, but also the hospitality and welcoming 48 | Issue 83 | December 2015

atmosphere at the resort, according to a recent customer service survey. “It’s peaceful and quiet, a different pace than in the cities. Our guests appreciate the sense of freedom it gives and the opportunity to spend time together. Many see it as a getaway, along the lines of mindfulness without being too trendy.”

Downhill or cross-country With plenty of snow in winter, Trillevallen is open from mid-December to mid-April and a safe bet for school breaks during Christmas, early spring and Easter. New this year is an additional ski lift and an advanced snow cannon system to help ensure well-maintained pistes for keen skiers throughout the winter season.

For downhill devotees, the resort currently offers a total of nine ski lifts and 21 pistes suitable for all levels of experience, from gentle green slopes for beginners, to steep black alternatives for brave expert skiers, and there is also a ski school in addition to the possibility for ski rental.

And for those who prefer cross-country skiing, Trillevallen has one of the most extensive and easily accessible ski track systems in the Åre mountain area with 120 kilometres linked to other ski resorts and two kilometres of illuminated tracks that are maintained daily.

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Lind talks of the popularity of this classic destination, which has been treasured also by famous writers, actors and politicians since its early beginnings. “The variety is great for both families and groups, as everyone can choose their own preferred activity. As all our slopes arrive at the same place, it’s easy to meet up after a run, and the pistes are wide and work really well for children of all ages.”

Something for everyone Trillediffen is an entertaining event for the whole family, taking place during peak season. The easy-going and social slalom competition is open to all levels of skiers, with the aim of achieving two runs with as similar times as possible.

“It’s good fun and not at all about being the fastest – you just need to perform consistently in both runs, so anyone can win regardless of experience,” Lind explains. Children also love the chance to feed the reindeer, and other memorable winter escapades include ice fishing, horse riding and discovering the area by snowmobile or with a dog sledge.

But there are of course more things to do throughout the year, such as hiking to neighboring villages Edsåsdalen, Ottsjö or Vålådalen. Many visitors take the opportunity to see how chocolate is made and pick up some tasty treats at the Åre chocolate factory close by, and every year in August, it is Fjällmaraton week with races including a full marathon across the mountains and related events, seminars and exhibitions.

Comfortable and relaxed Trillevallen’s visitors can choose between a variety of accommodation options for their stay, and if giving notice before arriving they can be picked up at the train station. Many choose the traditional alpine hotel built in 1938, where guests can spend some well-deserved down time in the cosy lounge pub or by the open fire in the Wolf room. In addition to the hotel, there are ten modern apartments and two villas available to rent, a mountain lodge with room for up to 40 people and a site for more than 60 caravans. For anyone interested in staying in the area

more permanently, Trillevallen currently has 70 lots of land for sale.

Restaurant Ripan, located in the middle of the slope, provides a selection of dishes with a modern twist, an open fire and a sun terrace. As an additional service, the Trillevallen team offers to drive lodgers to the supermarket to stock up on supplies and treats for their stay – just another example of how Trillevallen looks after its guests to make them feel at home.

For more information, please visit: www.trillevallen.com

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 49

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Photo: Magnus Johansson

Photo: Pite Havsbad.

Photo: Magnus Johansson

Piteå is the perfect place for an active winter holiday.

The friendly winter paradise by the sea Explore a snowy winter wonderland with an array of activities, northern lights and friendly locals. The small Swedish town of Piteå is located two hours south of the Arctic Circle and you can hardly go wrong with an active holiday here.

are found only five minutes from the city and you can also rent a snowmobile on your own or with a guide.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Destination Piteå

Summer skiing soon a reality

Many attractions in Piteå involve water in solid or fluid form, such as the unusual icebreaker tour at sea. “It is powerful to see and understand the power of the weather gods and the arctic environment we live in,” says Katarina Johansson, head of the tourist information centre in Piteå.

Guests learn more on board and, if you feel brave, you can even take a dip in a hole in the ice, wearing an overall life

jacket. The tour runs on a schedule but can also be booked for larger groups.

Ice skating is another popular day out.

“As soon as the ice is safe, there are prepared routes for ice walks and longdistance skating. You can bring or buy some coffee to enjoy by the camp fire,” Johansson says.

See the aurora borealis Winter is the prime time for northern lights and Johansson says that they have seen more than usual lately – but despite this, not even locals get tired of it.

“You really just put down what you have in your hands at the moment to go out and have a look,” she says.

But winter is, naturally, also the peak season for winter sports. Skiing tracks

50 | Issue 83 | December 2015

The main event in Piteå this winter is SM-veckan (the Swedish Championship week) in late January 2016. Aside from more than 17 different sports, visitors can expect a warm welcome. “We also have shopping, sights and much more, but it is the friendly locals that make all the difference,” Johansson insists.

Cross-country skiing queen, Charlotte Kalla, is part of the local team Piteå Elit and also one of the owners of the new local ski tunnel. “Piteå is a beautiful city in the summer too, with lots of sea and sun,” says Johansson. Next summer, skiing can also be added to the mix with the first 400-metre section of the tunnel ready this spring.

For more information, please visit: www.pitea.se/en/visitors

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish Winter Wonderland

Get back to basics in the heart of the north This winter, escape from it all in the heart of beautiful Lapland at Lappeasuando, where huskies are ready to guide you through stunning landscapes while you snuggle up, take in the view and listen to the sound of silence.

By Stephanie Lovell | Photos: Lappeasuando “Dogsledding is the perfect activity for those looking for a silent way to enjoy nature,” says Franziska Kohler, owner of Lappeasuando lodge. “You can drive your own dogsled over gentle hills, through forests and across frozen lakes. It’s amazing to feel the power of the dogs.”

Other wintery activities at Lappeasuando include snowmobiling, snowshoe hiking and ice fishing. After all that fresh air, warm up in the wooden sauna and indulge in some wellearned Nordic wellness.

“All our guides have many years of outdoor experience. We’re all immigrants who have fallen in love with the Nordic way of life and are keen to help our guests uncover the beauty of the north,” enthuses Kohler. “You’re also free to explore the surroundings on your own on snowshoes, kicksleds or skis. We’ll provide

you with a map of our trails, which stretch for about 30 kilometres.”

Several different types of accommodation are available, including hotel rooms built in a typical Swedish style with views of the river Kalix. Kids will love sleeping in the cabins not far from the hotel, while the wooden kota-style tents in the wilderness camp are a great option for groups.

“At the wilderness camp you can totally relax without any disturbances and be at one with nature,” says Kohler. “With no electricity whatsoever, your heating will come solely from wood and your light from candles or oil lamps. If you truly want to step back from your hectic daily life, this is the ideal place for you.”

For more information, please visit: www.lappeasuando.com

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

52 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish:

Enlightenment for life The ‘efterskole’ is a unique Danish independent and residential school for young people between 14 and 18 years of age. Currently, more than 28,000 students attend one of the approximately 250 schools spread across Denmark, and the schools are also open to students from abroad.

cation and democratic citizenship. The efterskole has something to offer educationally as well as socially, because the students live together.

By Efterskoleforeningen | Photos: Faaborgegnens Efterskole

It can perhaps be said that the teachers who work at an efterskole are not entirely ordinary. They are prepared to involve aspects of themselves other than the professional, so that the pupils have a positive relationship with the teachers. The teacher is responsible for both teaching and supervision outside of school hours.

This means that teachers and students are together all day from the time the students wake up until they go to bed.

This often engenders a close, personal and non-formal relationship between students and teachers – something Grundtvig himself would most certainly approve of.

Historically and culturally, the efterskole is related to the Danish free school movement, and the efterskole is often regarded as a junior form of the Danish folkehøjskole (folk high school), closely related to the educational ideas of N.F.S. Grundtvig (1783-1872), who wanted schools to provide enlightenment for life rather than formal vocational training.

The first few efterskoler were founded about 150 years ago and, especially within the last 25 years, the number of students has increased considerably.

Most efterskoler offer the same subjects and final examinations as state schools, but many focus on special subjects such as physical education, music or theatre,

or offer various kinds of special education. Compared to a regular state school, the efterskole has substantial freedom in terms of, for example, the choice of subjects, the teaching methods and the educational approach. These vary in accordance with the school’s political, religious and pedagogical orientation.

The freedom of the efterskole is assured by substantial state subsidies to both schools and students.

Each efterskole is a self-governing independent institution, and they all deal with both the educational and personal development of the students. They embrace a common educational focus on enlightenment for life, general edu-

For more information, please visit: www.efterskole.dk/english

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 53

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Customise your own education Fenskær Efterskole is one of Denmark’s 18 boarding schools for kids with special needs. Some of their students come from ordinary state schools, while others have attended special-needs classes. But no matter where they come from, they have something in common: they are not happy in school. Fortunately, a customised year at Fenskær is sure to change that.

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: Fenskær Efterskole

Fenskær Efterskole believes that there is something much more beneficial to their students than sheer academics.

“We are a musical and practical boarding school without the regular ninth grade exam. This allows us to focus on the things our students actually can do and thereby give them successes instead of, as you normally do in Denmark, focus on the things they can’t do, such as read or write age-appropriately,” says Niels Kirk, principal at Fenskær Efterskole.

The students at Fenskær are taught through different workshops. There are workshops about jewellery making, music, gardening and textiles as well as stone cutting and woodwork. “Three times a year, we sit down with each student to evaluate and talk about their in54 | Issue 83 | December 2015

terests, and then we tailor an artisan, creative or musical school year to suit their competences. This means that we have 85 students, each with their own plan and schedule,” explains Kirk.

Everyone but Peter Pan has to grow up The students live at Fenskær Efterskole 24 hours a day, except for the weekends.

They sleep in houses shared with eight or 11 fellow students. And this is, according to Kirk, very educational for the students.

“We want to make sure that our students become as independent as possible, which can be difficult when they cannot participate in a normal school system. To prepare them for life after school, we teach them how to wash their clothes, clean the house and many other practical things.”

It is also important at Fenskær that every student gets the attention that he or she needs, which is why they have double the teacher-student ratio compared to a normal boarding school – and why there are two teachers connected to every house.

No hocus pocus That does not mean, of course, that Fenskær can accomplish miracles. “We do not try to hide the fact that there are things our students will always find difficult, because they will have to live with that for the rest of their lives,” says Kirk.

“We just want them to know that there are also a lot of things they can do and hopefully will do.”

As such, the bar is set incredibly high for all the workshops, just not in an academic sense. It is no exaggeration to say that the pieces the students create during the workshops are as exceptional as similar items bought in stores. “We want to give our students some real experiences of success. When they make a painting, their mother will often say that it looks lovely before she puts it in a drawer. Our

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Just a few months after the school year begins, parents can often see an enormous difference in their children, who come to Fenskær for a customisable school experience suitable for students with special needs.

students may not be able to express it, but they know that she is only saying that to be nice,” Kirk explains. “When they come home with handmade bowls from Fenskær or a birdbath, it will be something their parents proudly show Aunt Olga – and something all the neighbours will be jealous of.”

When your best friend is a PC Besides finding out what they are good at, experiencing more successes than failures and getting prepared for life ahead, the students also make new friendships, which is perhaps the most important thing. For many of the students, their best friend has been a computer, to such an extent that their parents did not think they could do any-

thing else. But, as Kirk insists, of course they can.

“When I ask the students what they like the most about Fenskær, they always mention the friendships. And even though I, as a principal, would have liked them to say it is the teachers,” he laughs, “I don’t blame them. For the first time, they have friends who recognise them for who they are. If someone from the opposite sex also acknowledges them, even better,” he says.

The students’ parents are also thrilled.

No more than two and a half months after the school year begins, they can often see an enormous difference in their children. “It is fantastic to hear them say

how much their children have changed.

They are happier and they almost sparkle with energy,” Kirk says proudly, adding that positive, independent people are positive not just for Fenskær, but for all of society.

For more information, please visit: www.fenskaer.dk

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 55

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Let your passion for sports benefit your education BGI Akademiet consists of both old and new buildings, together making the framework for a modern and exciting boarding school with plenty of possibilities, especially in the field of sport.

like sports or want to challenge themselves – we have a place for every one of them.”

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: BGI Akademiet

The many possibilities at BGI attract students from all over Denmark which, according to Vestergaard, is very positive. “Meeting people unlike yourself can be incredibly rewarding. You do not just learn to stand on your own at BGI; you learn to be a part of a community, partly because of our joint gymnastic displays.”

A vibrant and dynamic place in constant development, BGI has been continuously growing since 1955, making it the second largest boarding school in Denmark with a capacity for 550 students.

Academic and physical education go hand in hand at BGI, in a system where all students live at the school. The two strands impact positively on each other, believes principal Helle Vestergaard.

“The students experience a constant interaction between physical and mental work,” she says. “This is something the Danish school system is struggling to incorporate successfully in primary school – here it seems quite natural.”

The physical training consists of three programmes: the gymnastics, the sport and the elite programmes. All three 56 | Issue 83 | December 2015

include several minor subjects, such as rhythmic gymnastics, parkour and football.

The elite programme is for upcoming professionals, and therefore the students are also allowed to train outside of school as well as receiving special tutoring on campus, including lectures and workshops. The level of education is high, not just for the elite but for all of BGI’s students. “We simply have to aim high to keep up with our students. Therefore, we make sure to work with the best teachers out there,” Vestergaard says.

But you do not have to be a sports professional in order to study at BGI. The students come for many different reasons, explains Vestergaard. “Some do want to become professionals, but others just

Through gymnastics, sports and education the students learn about trust and openness. Starting next year, they will be able to invest in their future on a global stage as well. “Next academic year, we are establishing an international programme,” Vestergaard reveals. “Why not? Sport is already something that brings together nations – we want to be a part of that.”

For more information, please visit: www.bgiakademiet.dk

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Nicolai Moltke-Leth

You can do it True North Efterskole is a continuation school unlike any other. The brainchild of Nicolai Moltke-Leth, the sociologist and former special forces soldier who presented the survival programme 71 Grader Nord, the school helps young people on the brink of adulthood to unlock their own potential to become the very best version of themselves. The school teaches the best ways to approach learning, responsibility and self-development, backed up by the latest research. Students learn that they can do anything they set their mind to – and how to go about it.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos:True North Efterskole

“I’ve been teaching adults and businesses these skills since the ‘90s,” Moltke-Leth says, “but after a pretty serious accident in the Paris-Dakar race, I decided to change tracks, as it were, and go where I would be most useful.”

He realised that young people could benefit tremendously from the learning and self-development strategies he had been teaching in more corporate settings. In 2006, he opened Camp True North to give young people the tools to solve everyday conflicts, build a positive attitude and achieve the goals they set for themselves. The success of the summer camp, which has seen more than 15,000 students prosper, led to the opening of the school with its year-long courses in 2012.

Students live in a fun and friendly social environment and academic subjects are an important part of the curricu-

lum, particularly the learning strategies taught in True North’s signature subject, Unlocking Potential (UP). UP explores the students’ individual strengths and investigates how they are best applied in business, academic and social situations to help students thrive in any environment. “If students have self-confidence, a positive attitude towards a challenge and their colleagues, and the specific management tools needed to see what’s required in a certain situation, they can achieve anything,” Moltke-Leth asserts.

On top of UP and academic subjects, students choose one so-called ‘challenge’ subject. These range from art and design to performance and outdoor and adventure, and let the students develop their social, intellectual and physical mind-sets through their own personal interests. The ‘challenge’ subject project management endows students with the management and enterprise theories taught to businesses, but uses a fun hands-on approach where students manage a project from start to finish, learning the theory through their practical experiences. Projects this year include a school kiosk, salsa classes and a table-tennis tournament, all managed by students. The school’s techniques are developed from modern evidence-based Nordic research into education and development, ensuring that students develop a positive and determined can-do attitude to learning, themselves and others.

For more information, please visit: www.truenorthefterskole.dk

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 57

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Above: Skamling’s Adventure X programme is the place where young adrenaline junkies get to live out their dreams in a safe setting. Right: Aspiring designers and fashionistas have a great time at Skamling, where they have eight weekly design classes and “get to be creative every day”.

‘Being a bit of a nerd is a good thing’ With a broad and varied range of design and sports subjects, Design- & Idrætsefterskolen Skamling attracts students from all over Denmark. The school has been educating ninth and tenth graders for more than five decades, but offers more opportunities today than ever.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Skamling

Founded in 1955, Design- & Idrætsefterskolen Skamling is by no means a novice when it comes to educating young people. But the school is about much more than traditional schooling.

It is about cultivating, encouraging and preparing students for future opportunities by allowing them to grow their individual interests while ensuring that they also achieve their academic goals.

Principal Brian Vittrup explains: “Our school is about training and working to accomplish better results both academically and in your area of special interest. When we use the word ‘nerd’ it is 58 | Issue 83 | December 2015

a positive term, and that is something our students find really cool – that it is not just okay to specialise and be a bit of a geek; it is a positive thing.”

Students spend eight hours a week on their chosen subject. The available subjects include: football, handball, design, app design, adventure X, and equestrianism.

Diversity and inclusivity Unlike some other schools, Design- & Idrætsefterskolen Skamling has chosen to include subjects from two very different

worlds, namely sports and design. A consequence of this is that students meet and experience an unusually diverse range of backgrounds and interests amongst their fellow students. “The respect for individual differences is one of the things that characterises our school – it is a special way of being together that naturally prevails all over the school. We do not see differences as a weakness but as a strength; actually, inclusivity and diversity are not something we talk about but are just an inherent part of the way we do things,” explains Vittrup.

The students themselves confirm that making friends across different subject groups is one of the great things about Design- & Idrætsefterskolen Skamling.

Among the other aspects they highlight are the school’s academic focus, the encouragement to think big and the ability

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Top left: School Building. Below left: Skamling offers an equestrian programme and nearby stabling, allowing students to bring their four-legged friends.

Middle below: A serious approach to both handball and football attracts many young sportsmen and women to Skamling.

AT A GLANCE: Founded in: 1955

Irresistibly hard work

The school’s boarding arrangement is another draw for students, who all enjoy the homely environment, which consists of small houses of ten to 14 students, as opposed to large dormitories.

One of Design- & Idrætsefterskolen Skamling’s unique draws is the opportunity for students to bring their own horse when choosing the equestrian programme. The horses are stabled and cared for at a nearby equestrian centre, where the weekly riding lessons also take place. But it is not just horse owners who find the school’s offers irresistible, but also adventure seekers, footballers and aspiring fashionistas. “I chose Skamling because I got to be creative every day,” says one design student, while a sports student stresses that he chose the school because of its serious approach to handball.

But while students are typically attracted to Design- & Idrætsefterskolen Skamling because of the life there, the atmosphere and exciting range of subjects, it is the school’s academic focus that impresses most parents.

Specifically, Skamling strives to make sure that anyone who is willing to work hard will improve his or her skills, be it academically or within a specific sport.

“We have a saying here that hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard, and that says it all when it comes to our approach to learning,” Vittrup rounds off.

of teachers to create an environment that both encourages them to push themselves and, at the same time, makes them feel safe and at home.

Location: Just outside Sjølund, approximately four kilometres from the sea and a 20-minute drive from Kolding, east Jutland.

Number of students: 136 Accommodation: Students live in houses of ten to 14 students, with two or three students sharing a room.

Subjects: The school offers eight main subjects, including football, handball, design, app design, adventure X and equestrianism.

Horses: Students on the school’s equestrian programme bring their own horse, which is stabled and cared for at a nearby riding school.

For more information, please visit: www.skamling.dk

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 59

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

A year at HMI is about adding to everything you already know, meeting new people, developing your personality and facing a number of challenges.

Working with others to help you grow Every year, 163 students live and learn at Hou Maritime Idrætsefterskole (HMI). They only go home at the weekends – and only if they want to. HMI, as the name reveals, is a boarding school with a wide range of exciting opportunities.

Among other things, they will learn to dive, go kayaking and climb the highest trees around. It will be an action-packed adventure, in other words.

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: Hou Maritime Idrætsefterskole

Where HMI stands out from most boarding schools in Denmark, is in its sailing programme. Every student at HMI gets to choose between four different main lines of study, one being sailing. During this programme, students are taught how to maintain a boat, navigate, do boat racing and much more. The role of captain typically rotates between the students and, between scheduled hours, students can look forward to cruising for almost a month. Not bad, is it? Well, neither are the other programmes: outdoor and adventure, football, and handball.

player. Qualified staff structure the daily training and the teams compete against other clubs and schools, helping to boost the team spirit.

Passion as a driving force

Course participants will most certainly develop and improve immensely during the year, so while extraordinary talent and exceptional skills come in handy, they are far from a prerequisite. You just have to be ready for a big commitment, comradeship and high professionalism.

To testify to your newly acquired skills, you receive a certificate when you pass the youth coach training and other relevant proficiency tests.

Regardless of which ball game you choose, HMI ensures that you are looked after both as an individual and as a team

Students who choose the outdoor programme will also face great ambitions.

60 | Issue 83 | December 2015

The high level of professionalism offered and expected is epitomised by the facilities HMI provides. The school is located on the Danish coast in a seaport close to the ocean, the beach and the forest. It boasts 25,000-squaremetre facilities, including a music room, a gym, a sports hall, playing fields and a fleet of match race boats, kayaks and surfing equipment.

Peter Gordon, the principal at HMI, explains why these four particular sports (sailing, outdoor and adventure, football and handball) were chosen. “It is important to us that the students get competences and strength during the year – something they can benefit from for the rest of their lives. These programmes do exactly that. When sailing, for example,

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

are involved in planning most practical details and in charge of everyday tasks such as cooking and grocery shopping. Supervised by teachers, they learn how to be more independent and take responsibility.

each student has a significant impact as an individual but at the same time they all depend on each other. This not only teaches them to rely on themselves, but to trust others too.”

Seeing the world together The single most important thing at the school is a sense of community. “HMI is a place where young people with different backgrounds and interests meet – and a place where diversity is key, all day every day,” says Gordon.

One way to experience this is to travel. Four times a year, HMI changes the settings for the compulsory school subjects, which all students have to take, into something completely different. On the first trip, they go out to explore the great Danish outdoors and work together through different challenges, day and night. On the second trip they go to France, Austria or Italy to ski which, according to Gordon, “is a perfect way to

have fun and build friendships for life.”

On the third trip, the students split up according to their interests. The football and handball students go on a training camp in Berlin or Amsterdam, the outdoor students test the skills they have developed in Swedish nature, and the sailors take to the Danish waters. At the end of the academic year, the school gathers an impressive armada of boats and all the students and staff go on a final trip along the shores of Jutland.

Seven years in one Making each trip great is the responsibility of the students themselves. They

If Gordon was to recap a year at HMI, it would sound a little something like this: “It is about adding on to everything you already know, meeting new people, developing your personality and facing a great number of challenges. You will grow as a person, and learn as a student. One year at a boarding school is equivalent to seven human years, and our vision is for each of our students to have enough confidence in themselves and the world around them to fulfil their dreams for the future.”

For more information, please visit: www.hmi.dk

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 61

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Brøndby Idrætsefterskole has become known as one of the best Danish schools for young athletes.

Keep it simple With a myriad of educational possibilities, teenagers in Denmark face a sometimes overwhelming amount of choice. But not at Brøndby Idrætsefterskole – here the main ambition is to ‘keep it simple’. The sports school is structured to reduce the complexity faced by young athletes by a simple and organised approach to life and sport.

with personal experience from the six sport subjects on offer: football, dance, top performance, golf, handball, and table tennis.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Brøndby Idrætsefterskole

Focus and simplicity

Balancing the requirements of their sport with school and social life can be a struggle for many aspiring young athletes. But at Brøndby Idrætsefterskole, everything from diet and training to homework is organised into a safe and coordinated framework created in cooperation with the students’ sport clubs, parents and, of course, the students themselves.

To be able to structure the individual students’ everyday lives and offer the best possible training facilities, Brøndby Idrætsefterskole collaborates closely with sports unions, institutions and clubs. This includes the neighbouring Idrættens Hus and Team Denmark as well as Copenhagen Golf Centre, which allows the school to offer indoor golf facilities.

Students need to be dedicated to their sport but, most importantly, they need to be committed to their own development.

“Young people’s lives are shaped by great complexity with unlimited options and choices and, consequently, demands and requirements. What we want to do is to 62 | Issue 83 | December 2015

minimise the complexity for the individual athlete in a way that makes the basic competences – needed to develop as a human being – clear and easy to approach,” says principal Bo Palle Jensen.

“That’s why we focus on the values of will, ambition and commitment in relation to the students’ approach to their sport, education, body, and social and mental competences.”

Founded seven years ago in buildings previously belonging to Brøndy IF, Brøndby Idrætsefterskole has become known as one of the best Danish schools for young athletes. Behind the school’s success is a team of devoted teachers

“Having everything in one place means that students can focus fully on what is most important for them,” says Jensen.

“We experience that having everything gathered under one umbrella has a very positive effect on students. They become more comfortable, confident and get to

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

know themselves in a way they did not before: they learn what they stand for, how much they can manage and how to plan their day – all competences they will benefit from for many years ahead.”

The school’s focus on wellbeing and development not only includes diet, training and injury prevention but also mindfulness. Weekly meditation sessions are offered to all students.

Not just for elite athletes Though Brøndby Idrætsefterskole was founded on an ambition to create a sports school that would allow students to take their sports to the highest possible level, it is not only a school for elite athletes.

The school’s six programmes see a diverse mix of students from all over Denmark, the islands and even occasionally abroad, and especially the more popular sports attract athletes of all levels.

“Among our students we have both athletes who are among the Danish elite in their sports and young people who just really enjoy their sport. For instance, we have a lot of students on our football

programme who just want to play more football,” explains Jensen, who has been part of the school since the beginning.

The school’s location in Brøndby, which is within an easy train or bus ride from Copenhagen city centre, is also something that attracts many young people, as does its position right across from the popular Danish football club BIF. Besides, Jensen stresses, the lessons students learn when training to better their physical performance are by no means limited to the sports court. “In relation to sports, you spend a lot of time and energy on creating specific objectives and working towards set goals, and we utilise that skill in every aspect of school life. For instance, if I want to improve my relationships to other people, I might set a milestone to develop my social skills.

Academically as well, it is about setting a goal and finding a realistic way to work towards it. That skill is something they can use for the rest of their life.”

For more information, please visit: www.brondby-ie.dk

FACTS: Number of students: 120-135 Location: Brøndbyvester Boulevard 6, 2605 Brøndby Boarding: Students stay in large, modern double or triple en suite bedrooms.

Programmes offered: football, dance, golf, handball, top performance and table tennis.

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 63

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Efterskoler – Uniquely Danish

Overcoming reading difficulties and making friends for life With just 65 students, Ryå Efterskole becomes an intimate, tight-knit community every year.

Located in northern Jutland, Denmark, Ryå helps young people who have dyslexia or other reading and spelling difficulties attain tools and methods to make learning much more accessible and fun.

By Louise Older Steffensen | Photos: Ryå Efterskole “We’re a small school with just 65 students.

This allows the staff to get really close to the individual students. We’re always there for them, and we can really give them the time and support that they need,” the school’s principal Holger Juul Nielsen says. “When we founded the school in 2003, we were a bunch of teachers who had decades of experience in the efterskole world,” he explains, “and we wanted to use our skills to help young people gain confidence in their abilities and become wellrounded citizens in the modern world.” The teachers use digital and audio programmes designed for users with dyslexia and teach their students how to use these programmes efficiently in future learning scenarios. “We also employ a lot of visuals and discussion in the classroom, and we adapt the tools and teaching styles to each student’s specific needs.”

Danish, English, mathematics, science and human science make up the core curriculum. “We show students that of course they can thrive in these subjects and take on further academic education.” Another subject, Life, investigates society and citizenship, reflecting the values and skills picked up from living with others at the school. “Everyone is here for similar reasons and has similar goals, and that certainly helps them in making friends for life,” Nielsen says. Most importantly, Ryå offers the full efterskole experience: the long list of creative and practical subjects includes everything from media studies, drama and jewellery making to farming, outdoor sports and mechanics, letting students discover new talents and friends in a fun, safe and supportive environment.

For more information, please visit: www.ryaaefterskole.dk

Something to talk about Gribskov Boarding School is situated in Northern Zealand, surrounded by forests and the sea.

It houses 107 pupils in class levels nine and ten. The facilities are continuously modernised and a new activity hall is currently being built to accommodate the many physical activities on offer. Students choose between two programmes, both of which include plenty of digital learning and creativity.

By Sara Asoka Paulsen | Photos: Gribskov Efterskole

Each student borrows a tablet from the school to keep throughout their stay and, instead of writing reports about chemistry, the pupils film their experiments. “We have seen an increase in our pupils’ scholastic levels due to the digital learning methods we have implemented in our education,” says principal Søren Møller.

64 | Issue 83 | December 2015

The digital learning aspect is also apparent in the media programme. Imagine getting to know all about film and photography and then getting the opportunity to use your newly acquired skills in Berlin, Copenhagen and New York. That is what the pupils at the media programme will experience, in addition to practising their photo skills in the local surroundings.

The outdoor programme is made up of a wide range of nature-related activities such as mountain biking, climbing and kayaking. Pupils on this course get to experience the wild, breathtaking nature of Iceland, skiing in Norway, and canoeing in Sweden. The many trips are exciting as well as enlightening.

Students at the school stay in mixed student halls with rooms separated by gender, and everyone eats together in the common

dining room. This helps to ensure that they make friends with other students and learn from each other. “The two programmes allow the students to exchange exciting stories.

When one group returns home from a school trip abroad, the other team awaits with greetings and flags,” says Møller. This gesture, he insists, is what the school really is all about.

For more information, please visit: www.gribskovefterskole.dk

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18/02/14 16.54

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

Photo: Mattias Fredriksson Photography AB.

66 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

Photo: Sverre Hjornevik.

The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes:

How to experience Norway like Norwegians In the middle of nowhere, an idyllic cottage sits surrounded by a thick blanket of snow. While it is cold and dark outside, the fire warms up everything inside, giving each family member beautifully rosy cheeks. Welcome to the most Norwegian of Norwegian experiences.

By Stephanie Brink Harck | Photos: Visitnorway.com

Half of all Norwegians have access to a cottage or a leisure home, if not two: a mountain leisure home for skiing and a lake or fjord-side cottage for the summer months. Despite what many people might think, Norwegians make use of their holiday homes all year around, spending more time in these leisure homes than any other nationality.

Decades ago, a cottage was little more than shelter from the often harsh weather in Norway, but in the 20th century this all changed. Instead, it became fashionable to build a cottage, often lit-

erally built by yourself. Far more than just shelters, these cottages became quiet retreats from everyday life, urging family and friends to spend some quality time together and making the rest of the world seem a distant memory. The average Norwegian would then come to ski, skate, fish, swim and just experience the rich nature. And indeed, Norway offers beautiful natural surroundings: deep valleys, high mountains, majestic fjords and northern lights.

In the past, part and parcel of the real cottage experience was the lack of run-

ning water and the absence of electricity. This has definitely changed too.

That version of a small, charming, picturesque cottage still exists, should you want to experience it, but nowadays most are every bit as grand as a normal house, some even better, complete with spa facilities, saunas, under-floor heating and other luxuries. This is also why many Norwegians choose to stay in Norway during their holidays rather than go abroad.

Tourists can get a taste of the luxury too and experience the magnificent countryside cottage-style, just like the Norwegians do. The old Norwegian tradition of living in harmony with nature is as popular as ever, and saying that a love of a good cottage holiday is well anchored in the Norwegian national soul is far from an overstatement.

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 67

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

The quintessential log cabin maker When imagining a quintessential cabin, images of cosy log cabins burrowed in picturesque winter landscapes are sure to come to mind. Where better to find one of the best timber cabin builders than in the forested and mountainous valleys of Valdres, a region in the heart of southern Norway?

By Maria Lanza Knudsen | Photos: G. Thue Håndlafting og Sagbruk

With access to quality wood in beautiful natural surroundings, it is no wonder G. Thue Håndlafting og Sagbruk, a timber and sawmill company, is outstanding in timberwork and carpentry. G. Thue has produced log cabins, houses and other buildings for over 30 years, since Gunnar Thue established the company in 1983.

Its head office and production facility is located at Heggenes, in Valdres, and has a display cabin at Norsk Hyttesenter, a cabin exhibition centre, near Lillestrøm.

Today, with its ten employees and a network of sub-contractors, G. Thue delivers projects across Norway.

A building technique in renaissance Lafte, as it is called in Norwegian, is a building technique where a carpentry 68 | Issue 83 | December 2015

turers, and we abide by all of the Norsk Laft quality control standards.” All Norsk Laft standard projects are inspected after completion and G. Thue has received central approval from the Norwegian Building Authority.

joint is formed by two crossed structural timbers, each of which has a notch at the place where they cross. This technique is over a thousand years old and part of the Norwegian cultural heritage.

It has, in the past few years, experienced a renaissance.

Timber buildings do have a certain sense of soul with their monumental exterior and harmonious interaction with the natural surroundings. For G. Thue, it is important to create a space of wellbeing in both the interior and the exterior of the building.

The construction styles, decoration and actual use have of course changed over the years. As a result of its recent popularity, new techniques continue to be developed to adapt to the needs of today.

Over time, it is said that over 400 different lafte techniques have been developed across Norway. “At G. Thue, we use a technique called ‘Ekkoff laft’,” Gunnar Thue, the owner, explains. “We are a founding member of Norsk Laft, the industry association for timber manufac-

Delivering tailor-made buildings With their expertise in various types of traditional timberwork, including the carpentry techniques of cogging and notching, G. Thue has built up an impressive portfolio of constructed log cabins, homes and other wooden buildings.

From dog houses to cabins and residential houses, the end results represent a range of structurally stable buildings with unique woodwork characteristics and functions. Most constructed build-

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

ings have grass roofs. For the exterior of the building, G. Thue tailor-makes outdoor seating areas and wooden gates.

G. Thue’s own sawmill allows for the production of a range of wood dimensions for construction as well as for panelling and floorboards. Two types of wood are used: spruce and pine. As timber is sourced directly from the forests of Valdres, G. Thue has access to a unique assortment of large timber logs that are not available at building material outlets.

To find that specific timber log for a project, G. Thue has even ventured into the forest to source it.

In addition, G. Thue established its own land development company, Bjødnaholet Utvikling AS, enabling it to take on all aspects of a construction project. “As contractors, we are able to deliver a construction project from A to Z,” explains Thue. “We can take a project from the drawing board all the way through to a finished building entirely based on the client’s wishes and demands.” Likewise, if a client wishes to use an architect or their own design, G. Thue can realise the vision.

Supported by its partners and subcontractors, G. Thue provides a tailor-made approach that includes electrical works, plumbing, pipework and interior fitting. A carpentry sub-contractor creates windows and doors by measure, as well as made-to-measure fixtures such as kitchens, bathrooms, wardrobes and bedrooms.

With decades of expertise, G. Thue has clear recommendations on how to maximise space and how to create and maintain warmth indoors during long winter months. For example, it is important that the buildings are equipped with chimneys and fireplaces in several rooms. G. Thue’s experienced master mason supplies chimney pipes in various dimensions and finishes, along with custom fireplaces.

Through its tailor-made buildings, G. Thue is continuing an important part of Norwegian heritage. “We’re com-

mitted to preserving and promoting a millennium-old building tradition that we have adapted to modern needs and demands,” concludes Thue. And, thanks to G. Thue’s expertise, these wooden works of art are found scattered across the Norwegian landscape, from Vadsø in the north, to Stavanger in the south.

In close proximity to popular ski resorts and national parks, G. Thue creates log cabins and houses for those seeking the beauty of timber and woodwork in their home.

For more information, please visit: www.gthue.no

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 69

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

Laftekompaniet:

Taking traditional log houses to new levels As Norway’s largest log house construction company, with a knack for generating impressive market interest, Laftekompaniet has many a reason to rest on its laurels.

Honing hard work, uniqueness and seamless customer relations as their founding pillars, however, this is a company that will never settle – at least not for anything less than brilliance. Trusting Laftekompaniet with your dream of the ultimate log house is more than partaking in an inclusive construction plan; it is a once-in-alifetime experience.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Laftekompaniet

“Since the millennium, we’ve built and delivered 500 log cabins, so I dare say we’ve accumulated a decent amount of knowledge on how it’s done,” begins Kai Korsen, owner and CEO at Laftekompaniet, when asked why his company is so often equated with unbeatable brilliance in its field. “Furthermore, we believe in maintaining control over every step of the value chain and delivering an architectural look that merges modernity with the traditional craftsmanship we love and are adamant in preserving.”

70 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Honing tradition and adapting to novelty Constructing cabins, residential buildings and commercial buildings in the traditional Norwegian log house style (naturally shaped, peeled logs are custom-fitted to one another and notched where they overlap at the corners of the construction), Laftekompaniet is indeed keeping a proud tradition alive. However, the company has also made a name for itself by adding new life to the look, adapting the distinctive nature of the Norwe-

gian log house to American lodge styles and timber frame constructions. The latter is a collective term for the powerful framework of rough wooden structures that allows for large windows and rooms to be incorporated without columns, ultimately resulting in more architectural style choices for the client. “We’ve travelled far and wide – from the USA to the Alps – to seek new inspiration, adding to and adapting the log house look we’ve long been accustomed to in Norway. Today Laftekompaniet can offer a multitude of looks and constructions, all inherently unique as our in-house architects design them individually, adherent to a versatile concept that we are really proud of,” says Korsen.

Green, clean and nature-inclusive He explains that part of adapting to novel thinking is ensuring that all log houses made and delivered by Laftekompaniet

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

Laftekompaniet combines matchless competence, quality control and novel thinking to build you your dream log house or cabin.

are high-quality products, especially in an environmental sense. Technology to control lighting and heating in the cabin from your smartphone can be installed, limiting the energy you waste. The warming of the cabins happens by way of geothermal and hydronic heating, green choices that limit both the carbon footprint and the more general impact on our environment compared to heating options using fossil fuels. Cabins are also planned to merge seamlessly with the surrounding nature, as opposed to imposing upon the scenery in a discordant way – all while maintaining the aspect of comfort. “We’ve taken a clear stand in the environmental issue, and we deem it’s only a matter of course.

The response has been equally unambiguous – and solely positive,” says Korsen.

Tailor-made and transparent – for excellent results Motives for the first-rate views and reviews are many, and among them is the company’s dedication to maintaining strong ties with the clientele throughout and after the construction process. Korsen describes

it as a “partnership” with the client, where continuous dialogue and pedagogic, high-tech displays of plans and blueprints are paramount. Transparency is equally important; Laftekompaniet’s website features a reference list with phone numbers of clients you can call for a word or two on their particular log house – after its completion.

“Clients are invited to meet with us several times and go over the plan in our 3D programmes. The cabins can be adapted to their every need, whether that is a ski-waxing station or a room for hunting equipment. The inclusive design experience allows clients to compare room sizes and ratios or directly take part in adjusting certain features. Ultimately we can deliver a turnkey-ready cabin the client can be fully satisfied with and enjoy for the rest of their lives, before leaving it behind for the next generation to appreciate.”

With a doubled activity in 2014 compared to 2013, and a strong second quarter of

this year, Laftekompaniet’s future boasts all the traits of an unremitting success.

And the strengths backing up such prospects? Key qualities such as matchless competence, a quality-controlled production process at the company’s own factory, novel thinking in everything from aesthetics to environmental qualities, and last but not least: a 100 per cent client-centred philosophy devoted to realising that cabin dream. “We are uncompromising in our quality control, and that’s how we’re going to continue.

No matter how things go in the future, everything we do has to comply with our philosophy – growth has to happen organically. We’ll always be humble. We’re only as good as our last project!” concludes Korsen enthusiastically.

For more information, please visit: www.laftekompaniet.no and www.facebook.com/laftekompaniet

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 71

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

Notching walls of lasting value, character and soul Honing old Norwegian craft traditions and combining them with modern, soulful experiences is a key aim for Østlaft Bygg AS. According to this producer of quality log houses and cabins, the final construction is only part of the cabin-building experience. The rest? A carefully strung-together process of tailoring detailed blueprints, engaging in valuable dialogue and finally crafting the ultimate Norwegian dream: a quality leisure home of the finest traditional character.

the company also boasts the largest catalogue selection of log homes and cabins in Norway. This, combined with a booming market interest, Skarpnord explains, has called for an increased production capacity.

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Østlaft Bygg

“The reason behind the large production volume is definitely our comparatively new production facility, which could produce up to 120 units a year. Utilising such a large space allows for all operations to be streamlined and products inspected on-site,” she explains. “We’re also proud that we’ve been able to make a lot of improvements to equipment and products as quickly as needs have arisen; today we are market-leading when it comes to the density of our log work, something that adds a significant stamp of quality to a finished home.”

Østlaft Bygg AS has built and delivered log houses and cabins for 18 years, but since transferring to a new type of production line in 2003 the company has experienced a steady rise in production.

The company’s own website describes the development as “a kind of fairy tale”, something general manager Anne-Lise Skarpnord underscores with enthusiasm. “Few producers in our industry live to see nearly two decades of uninterrupted production. Many fail to keep up with new legislation in construction standards, or simply the push and pull of market forces. I believe we’ve been 72 | Issue 83 | December 2015

ambitious but careful in our mission, emphasising organic growth but ultimately focusing on the product: the logs, the cabins. Streamlining production, delivering quality, maintaining and valuing the customer base – that’s what we’re about.”

Values in and behind the numbers Having delivered more than 450 constructions throughout the years, everything from cabins and homes to storehouses, annexes and garages, Østlaft Bygg AS boasts an impressive production potential.

With over 100 construction models in their archives, 20 to 30 of which are current,

While the above numbers are nothing short of outstanding, Skarpnord is firm

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

when expressing that Østlaft Bygg AS sees value both in and behind the figures.

“This kind of statistic is surely a reason to be pleased with our growth, but we’re very humble in the face of said development.

We wouldn’t be here without strong ties to our customer base, and we’re absolutely reliant on their thoughts, opinions and – essentially – contentment. A positive commerce curve means little without a happy clientele.”

Creating lasting trust That the client feels taken care of is important to Østlaft Bygg AS, whose staff sit down with clients to ensure that wellinformed decisions are made on everything from room division to paint.

While cabins can be ordered and constructed straight out of the catalogue pages, Skarpnord emphasises that all models can be tailored to specific needs.

Whatever design you choose, it comes with a full product description that details exactly what you have purchased – as to

eliminate all hidden costs. “Creating that bond of lasting trust is very important to us. The client should feel in good, safe hands with the company generally and our staff specifically. The process always allows for dialogue, adjusting architectural features and making suggestions, all to ensure maximum satisfaction with the end product,” Skarpnord explains.

Authentic looks with the environment in mind The list of satisfied clients is long, and the company’s short delivery time of only a couple of months is a proven contributing factor. The same goes for its environmentally sound thinking. In addition to crafting log homes that, due to the use of varying log heights, have a rustic and authentic feel, Østlaft Bygg AS takes due care to inform you about the other ‘green’ features of your house. Log constructions are by nature an environmentally friendly product, free from artificial elements and ideal for conserving heat in the wintertime and coolness in summer. The indoor

air quality of these homes is thus unparalleled; the logs keep the air clean, crisp and perfectly humidified.

Furthermore, the company’s stateof-the-art ‘wind stopper’, mounted in the notches, keeps the wall construction dense, which in turn prevents heat emissions. As if that was not enough, log homes boast a proud history of long, low-maintenance lives, where rebuilds due to old age are seldom necessary.

“Log houses and cabins have sat in Norwegian hillsides for centuries,” remarks Skarpnord. “We’re proud to partake in the preservation of our cultural heritage, while also granting families that archetypically Norwegian dream of owning a log cabin or house. We’re also seeing an increase in people wanting such homes as their year-round residence, which makes us happy.”

For more information, please visit: ostlaftbygg.no

A green and environmentally responsible choice: log homes boast a proud history of long, low-maintenance lives, where rebuilds due to old age are seldom necessary.

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 73

Scan Magazine | Special Theme | The Best of Norwegian Leisure Homes

Mjuken.

Ilbogen.

Ilbogen.

Brattskarven.

Mjuken.

The art of cabin building Few things are as Norwegian as the mountain cabin, thousands of which are scattered across the majestic scenery. As the oldest leisure home and cabin building company in Norway, Sande Hytter has shaped the design and construction of over 10,000 of the country’s cabins since 1956.

By Maria Lanza Knudsen | Photos: Sande Hytter

Sande’s continuous popularity is a testament to its ability to both innovate and create timeless cabins for use over generations. Clients appreciate its high-quality construction based on old building traditions.

Headquartered south of Trondheim in central Norway, Sande is situated not far from Trollheimen mountain range, a popular recreational area, where it has built numerous mountain cabins. Cabins have also been built on the west coast and in Jotunheimen, the large mountainous area in southern Norway.

Sande makes cabin design and building seem like an art. “We wish to challenge the traditional cabin concept by integrating modern solutions,” Andreas Pütz, the managing director, elaborates. “We 74 | Issue 83 | December 2015

er,” Pütz explains. “We’ve created smart solutions for smaller spaces that still remain comfortable for its inhabitants.”

Two such cabin designs, the Mjuken and the Ilbogen cabins, have become some of Sande’s most sold cabins in recent times.

have decades of tradition and experience to draw from when developing modern designs.” The expertise comes from Sande’s employees, some of whom have worked at Sande Hytter since the 1970s.

The other popular cabin design is the larger Brattskarven cabin. It takes the traditional cabin as a starting point, but integrates modern solutions to create a functional yet design-conscious building.

The company has two ranges of cabins, the traditional range and the modern range, accommodating all tastes and preferences. In a market where many providers focus on price, Sande is about quality. It uses particular suppliers to ensure only the highest-quality materials are used.

We can expect exciting new developments from Sande Hytter in the future as the company is partnering with architecture firm Selberg Arkitekter to design a new range of signature cabins. Through the partnership, brand new, groundbreaking solutions have been developed.

Keep an eye out for the first model to be launched in February/March 2016.

Popular present, exciting future In the future, Sande aims to specialise in what it refers to as ‘living in small spaces’ – fully equipped cabins of no more than 50 square metres. “We create spaces that bring families togeth-

For more information, please visit: www.sande-hytter.no

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Norway

Photo: Kristiansand Kunsthall

Photo: Lars Morell

Designed by the renowned architecture firm 4B, the gallery features large windows and an over light, providing the exhibition space with plenty of natural light.

Attraction of the Month, Norway

A treasure chest of contemporary art For those who have just discovered Kristiansand Kunsthall, the gallery perched on top of the city’s library may seem like the city’s best-kept secret. But the gallery, which originates from one of Norway’s oldest art associations, Christianssands kunstforening, has been active since 1881.

By Andrea Bærland | Photos: Tor Simen Ulstein

Today, the art association’s 800-piece collection is stored and displayed at the regional museum, Sørlandets Kunstmuseum. Since its rebrand as a kunsthall in 2012, Kristiansand Kunsthall has focused on exhibiting contemporary art, primarily by current Norwegian and international artists.

Kristiansand Kunsthall focuses both on giving up-and-coming artists an audience and on bringing well-known artists to Kristiansand. “And sometimes everything falls into place and we get to combine the two,” says Nissen. “In 2016 we look forward to showing young Sveinung Rudjord Unneland alongside the works of one of Norway’s leading painters, Leonard Rickhard.”

“When I took this position a few years ago, I discovered that our region has fostered a number of contemporary artists that have travelled abroad, so I’ve made it my mission to bring them back home for their hometown audience to see,” says Cecilie Nissen, creative director at Kristiansand Kunsthall.

Nissen explains that in the art world of today, the artists’ roles are fleeting. “An artist can be a painter one day, and a curator the next. This also goes for authors and musicians, and with our connection to the library we try to work with writers as well,” she says.

Until the end of the year, the Switzerland-based Norwegian artist Mette Stausland will exhibit her drawings alongside the work of husband and sculptor Robert Wood in the exhibition Correspondences.

Over the past three years, the gallery has also been working closely with the local music festival, Punkt, and this year Belgian Aernoudt Jacobs exhibited his sound installations in Kristiansand for the occasion.

“It is important for us to engage and create dynamic relationships with the artists that exhibit with us. We don’t want to be just a place to hang up paintings; we also want to be a place where they can get inspired and produce new art,” Nissen says.

For the gallery’s re-opening in 2012, artist Jan Freuchen and author Sigurd Tenningen curated an exhibition called The Game of Life, based around Kristiansand’s characteristic downtown area, Kvadraturen. Last year, the duo exhibited the second part, The Game of Life II: Knust i offentlig rom, about iconoclasm and art in public spaces.

“Currently, Freuchen and Tenningen are working on the third installment, The Game of Life III, exploring subjects such as upbringing, cultivation and play, which we are excited to exhibit during the summer of 2016,” Nissen concludes with a smile.

For more information, please visit: www.kristiansandkunsthall.no

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 75

Scan Magazine | Attraction of the Month | Denmark

Though Carlsberg has relocated most of its production to Jutland, it is still brewing in Jacobsen’s Brewhouse at Visit Carlsberg.

Attraction of the Month, Denmark

Thirsty for an ex-beer-ience?

If you are tired of dusty museums and stuffy art exhibitions, but thirsty for a taste of Denmark’s cultural and industrial past, Carlsberg’s old brewery in Copenhagen might be the place to go. At Carlsberg you will not just find an impressive display of artefacts and architecture, but also an engaging exploration of the past and present of beer making.

only thing left to do is to stock up on Carlsberg memorabilia. The gift shop offers everything from Carlsberg bottle openers to a beauty range based on beer called Beer Beauty, of course.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Visit Carlsberg

That Carlsberg is visited by thousands of guests every year is not just down to the two free beers included in the ticket price. However, beer is what Carlsberg is famous for – world famous, actually – and a visit to Carlsberg is also a visit to the epicentre of the history of beer brewing. “What surprises a lot of our guests, especially international visitors, is that Carlsberg is an old brand with a long history of sharing knowledge about brewing and quality beer. What you experience is not a modern factory – it is a heritage experience, but at the same time the modern experience centre gives an insight into what Carlsberg is today and how we brew beer through exhibitions and a number of activities,” explains Jesper T. Møller, communications officer at Visit Carlsberg.

76 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Founded in 1847, Carlsberg’s characteristic architecture, cobblestoned beer garden and vintage delivery vans take visitors to another world. An essential part of the tour is also a visit to the horse stables and their residents; the impressive draught horses can also be experienced on carriage rides around the site.

Today, Carlsberg has relocated most of its production to Jutland, but it is still brewing in the small craft brewery, Jacobsen’s Brewhouse, at Visit Carlsberg. This is where guests end their tour of the experience centre and, after smell sampling their favourite flavours in the aroma room, they can enjoy the real deal in the adjoining Jacobsen bar.

The bar also serves lunch with a range of beer-based dishes. After lunch, the

FACTS Open: All year 10am–5pm (closed on Mondays October-April).

Admission: Adults DKK 85, Youth (6–17) DKK 60, Children (0–5) free.

Admission includes two beers or soft drinks.

How to get there: A free shuttle service runs from central Copenhagen (Hotel Royal, Vesterbrogade 6) every hour 12–3pm, taking approximately ten minutes one way.

Guided tours and beer tastings: DKK 50 each (in English or Danish).

For more information, please visit: www.visitcarlsberg.com

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Sweden

Celebrate weddings, special occasions or simply the weekend in style. Nature shifts with the seasons, creating the perfect setting for the manor house.

Hotel of the Month, Sweden

A place made for special occasions Imagine a fairy castle steeped in history and embedded in greenery, right next to a small lake in the Swedish countryside. Drive one hour from Stockholm, walk up the gravel path to the grand stairs and there it is: the manor house Hedenlunda Slott.

made mulled apple wine and access to wood-fired bath barrels by the lake.

Hamilton describes the Christmas buffet as something “out of the ordinary”.

By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Hedenlunda Slott

It looks like something out of a painting and is a beautiful place for conferences and weekend trips, but more than anything it is perfect for special occasions.

“The whole setting is made for weddings and many couples choose to get married by the lake,” says Regina Hamilton, head of marketing at Hedenlunda Slott.

Summer is the peak wedding season and, despite being almost fully booked, there are still dates available for couples planning to tie the knot in 2016. The large orangery takes 450 people, but smaller

parties are of course catered for as well.

Hamilton praises the team: “The chefs are amazing; they really bring out the best flavours in the food. We also have a very high service level and that’s something we are really proud of,” she says.

Long-running history Ancient remains indicate that Hedenlunda was a village as early as the 11th century. The first known owner of the manor house dates back to 1336 and prominent dukes and nobilities have lived there ever since. The hallway is decorated with the family coats of arms. “You can really travel back in time here if you wish,” says Hamilton.

Christmas time The holiday season is now in full swing, featuring packages with everything from a large Christmas buffet and accommodation to highlights such as the home-

“All dishes are cooked from scratch and come in small sizes, leaving room for you to sample everything,” says Hamilton, who quickly admits to being a huge fan of the sumptuous dessert table.

There are 62 rooms in total, with 11 individually decorated doubles and one suite located in the actual manor house.

Guests can also stay in other buildings in the park and nature is literally on your doorstep. “Guests can borrow canoes to explore the lake and we have even had guests picking chanterelles in the garden,” Hamilton says, revealing that a new bath and sauna deck by the lake and orangery will be ready in early 2016. “We hope it will be much enjoyed by both our weekend and conference guests.”

For more information, please visit: www.hedenlundaslott.se

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 77

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

A large green wall integrated into the Third Climate Zone helps create a good microclimate, thanks to the plants’ natural ability to freshen the air, stabilise humidity levels and cool the space in summer time.

Hotel of the Month, Denmark

Small island – big thoughts Bornholm might be a small island, but it is big on green technology and sustainability, and nowhere is that more evident than at Green Solution House. However, it is not just the hotel and conference centre’s innovative green solutions that attract awards and nominations, but also its seasonal kitchen, comfortable rooms and healthy work environment.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Green Solution House

In 2007, aboard a business development cruise around Bornholm, Trine Richter had an idea. She wanted to create a conference centre that would showcase all the newest and most ambitious initiatives within green technology and sustainability. A year later, the idea had turned into a plan to transform the old Hotel Ryttergaarden in Rønne into one of the world’s eco-friendliest hospitality venues. Fast-forward to 2015, seven years and 85 million DKK later, and Green Solution House has opened its doors presenting innovative green solutions in every area from construction materials, energy production, waste management and landscaping.

“We wanted the best building possible, one that would contribute to the health of both people and nature. Therefore, 78 | Issue 83 | December 2015

we have carefully integrated high-quality materials – recycled, recyclable, regenerative, active and local – and we have integrated systems and processes that generate energy, save energy, monitor energy and circulate fresh air and clean water by utilising nature’s own processes, emerging technologies and trusted solutions,” explains Richter, who is today director of the house.

The project, which started out under Business Center Bornholm, is now privately owned by CEM’s Fond (a fund set up by Carl Edvard Mogensen, the former owner of Hotel Ryttergården), but has been adopted by all of Bornholm with thousands of locals visiting for a tour.

Sustainably delicious Predictably, Green Solution House’s restaurant is also firmly centred on sustainability principles, sourcing only local or organic seasonal produce. This, however, has not limited the creativity of head chef Kasper Beyer. On the contrary, his team and the restaurant were awarded an impressive two stars by Den Danske Spiseguide this autumn, which rates the best eateries in Denmark.

“Of course we had hoped to be included in the guide, but the fact that we have been awarded two stars is a positive surprise, which we are very humble about,” says Beyer and adds: “Our kitchen almost exclusively uses produce from Bornholm and organic produce from the rest of Denmark, and at the same time we keep the menu small to avoid any food waste.

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Denmark

With those kinds of limitations, you have to work very creatively to come up with new and exciting taste experiences, and that is something that all our team deserves a lot of credit for.” Casper Sundin, a recognised dessert chef from Søllerød Kro, also recently joined Beyer in the kitchen.

Green wellbeing Listing and explaining the many green solutions incorporated in Green Solution House would require numerous pages and plenty of time. Suffice to say that there is hardly a chair, carpet or even pathway for which a sustainable version has not been found, invented or, in some cases, preserved. As a flagship for eco-innovation the building has garnered much attention from the green science sector and is sharing its experience with universities all over the world, from Jutland to Abu Dhabi.

As a guest, however, you need not even be interested in sustainability to enjoy the outcome. Features such as daylight optimisation, a lush green wall and remotely controlled climate controls for rooms work in tandem to benefit the

overall experience. These qualities have also led to a nomination by Construction 21, a site for professionals within the sustainable building sector, for the Cop21 prize in the category Health and Comfort. “What we want to prove is that sustainability can also mean wonderful daylight, a naturally healthy indoor environment and respect for the people who use the house. We are not sustainable because we want to be hippies, but because we believe it is a really good business. We want to prove that it does not need to be either/or – it can be both,” stresses Richter.

But even Richter’s focus on creating a successful and profitable business will eventually work to strengthen the building’s green profile, as a circular business model means that profits are reinvested into improving existing green solutions and implementing new ones. “That’s also one of the things that make us different for people visiting: they will always experience new solutions and initiatives when coming back, because we never stop developing,” Richter finishes.

GREEN SOLUTION HOUSE IN NUMBERS: Meeting rooms: eight Maximum number of seated guests: 350 Maximum number of guests seated at tables: 160 Rooms: 64 Apartments: 28 Exhibition space: 400 square metres Landscape plot: 65,000 square metres.

GREEN SOLUTION HOUSE… • is certified to the standards of the recognised German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB).

• is based on the criteria of the active house vision.

• is inspired by the cradle-to-cradle life cycle concept.

• holds the bronze eco-rating.

For more information, please visit: www.greensolutionhouse.dk

Green Solution House is located in quiet surroundings close to the forest with bicycle and pedestrian paths leading directly to the beach.

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 79

Scan Magazine | Hotel of the Month | Iceland

Hotel of the Month, Iceland

Family-run boutique hotel offering luxury on the Reykjanes peninsula If you are stopping over in Iceland on your way across the Atlantic, Hotel Keflavik is ready to see to all your accommodation needs and more. Just five minutes from Keflavik International Airport, 15 minutes from the Blue Lagoon, 40 minutes from downtown Reykjavík and on the doorstep of breathtaking nature, this four-star boutique hotel is perfectly located to experience all the island has to offer.

By Stephanie Love | Photos: Oli Haukur Myrdal, OZZO Photography

Having undergone extensive renovations over the last three years, Hotel Keflavik has been recognised as one of the best hotels in Iceland. In addition to cosy and well-equipped rooms, you will be able to make the most of great on-site facilities, including a 6,000-square-foot fitness centre and an exquisite restaurant.

“Hotel Keflavik is perfectly situated for guests seeking the unspoiled nature Iceland is renowned for,” says Davíð Jónsson, assistant manager. “By staying on the Reykjanes peninsula, you can experience rugged geothermal landscapes, hot springs, the northern lights and the Blue Lagoon. You’ll also 80 | Issue 83 | December 2015

find the Viking World Museum, Duus cultural centre, the Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll and the Power Plant Earth exhibition nearby.”

Well worth a stop-over Hotel Keflavik is proud to have Jenny Rúnarsdóttir, one of the winners of MasterChef Iceland, as head chef and owner of the hotel restaurant. KEF Restaurant and Bar focuses on beautifully presented, fresh Icelandic ingredients, accompanied by a great selection of wines and local beers. “We have a guest who frequently flies between America and Europe, making a special stop in Iceland just to taste Jenny’s cod,” says Jónsson.

On 17 May 2016, Hotel Keflavik will be celebrating its 30th anniversary by opening a brand new top floor known as Diamond Suites. This will be the first fivestar accommodation in Iceland, with each individually decorated room featuring Versace marble, state-of-the-art Bang and Olufsen flat-screen televisions, luxury furniture, jet bathtubs and iMac computers. “As part of the renovations, we now have two Jacuzzis on the balcony, which is covered with a glass roof so there’s nothing to disturb your amazing view. On a good evening you can even enjoy the magnificent show of the northern lights,” says Jónsson.

It may look shinier than ever, but Hotel Keflavik, which has been run by the same family since it opened, has maintained its trademark warm service and hospitality.

For more information, please visit: www.kef.is

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Finland

The restaurant’s staff work together to recreate traditional Finnish dishes with a modern spin.

Restaurant of the Month, Finland

Dishes seasoned with youthful drive and passion 19th century cellar vaults might not be the first location that springs to mind for a fine dining restaurant, but Ravintola Musta Lammas has been serving Nordicinspired cuisine with a twist to its customers since 1982 in Kuopio, Finland. Using fresh, local produce, the restaurant has maintained its reputation as one of Finland’s top restaurants for over 30 years.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Sami Tirkkonen

The cellar vaults were originally built in 1862 for the use of a local brewery. “We want to offer an experience to our customers through the interesting setting of the restaurant and the high-quality produce we use and service we provide.

Each dish is made from scratch in our kitchen. Our menus change five times per year and we have themed weeks to give customers a chance to enjoy new taste experiences,” says Eeva Mertanen, restaurant manager at Ravintola Musta Lammas. The restaurant is a member of the prestigious International Association of Gastronomy, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.

“Our menu offers wine suggestions for each dish. The whole team is involved

in the development of our food and wine pairings, alongside our head chef, Henna Lindi. Creating our menus is a yearround process, and each member of staff is actively involved in making suggestions for the menus,” Mertanen explains.

One of the restaurant’s most popular dishes is the themed ‘Menu Surprise!’

“December’s theme is nature – we use the surrounding forests and lakes as inspiration when compiling our menus and source local, organic ingredients.

This is fine dining using traditional Finnish ingredients and dishes, with a modern spin. Our menu combines different tastes: from lamb with beetroot, to es-

cargots, to serving pike perch from the nearby lake, Kallavesi – we like our menu to be exciting and interesting,” says Mertanen.

Mertanen is very proud of her youthful and collaborative team. “Our team is young and energetic; part of our strength comes from our youthful drive. Although we are a fine dining restaurant, the atmosphere is relaxed and cosy.” The restaurant’s unusual setting is part of the draw: it is where history and the present day merge. “We want to give a whole taste experience to our customers and allow them to try new things – our team’s creativity and passion shine through in the food, drink and service we offer,” Mertanen concludes.

For more information, please visit: www.mustalammas.net

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 81

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

Restaurant of the Month, Denmark

Three decades of gastronomic perfectionism 2015 has been a good year for Rudolf Mathis. Not only has the waterfront-located seafood restaurant in Kerteminde been able to celebrate an impressive 30 years in business – it has also been nominated for Seafood Restaurant of the Year.

By Signe Hansen | Photos: Rudolf Mathis

Beautifully located in the scenic harbour of Kerteminde, Rudulf Mathis is, with its towering whitewashed walls and black beams, the very epitome of Danish seaside charm. With a terrace literally on the water edge, a lunch in the sun here is an extraordinary treat. However, it is not the restaurant’s beautiful setting but its long-lasting reputation for serving world-class seafood that convinced Den Danske Spiseguide (the Danish Guide for Eating Out) to nominate it for the Seafood Restaurant of the Year award. Presenting the nomination, the guide wrote: “The prize is awarded for an age-long tradition of serving classic fish and seafood with a never faltering perfection.”

82 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Coincidentally, there is no better time for seafood fans to try out the restaurant as owner and head chef Puk Larsen, who founded the restaurant in 1985, is celebrating the anniversary with a menu consisting of 30 small, tapas-like dishes.

Success against the odds Larsen, a native Kerteminder, started Rudolf Mathis after spending three years gathering experience at one of Denmark’s best restaurants, Kong Hans Kælder in Copenhagen. When returning to Kerteminde, the lack of quality restaurants in the beautiful area convinced him to set up Rudolf Mathis. “I never imagined that it would be as successful

as it has eventually become or that we would achieve the kind of gastronomic level that we have today. We have aimed to serve high-quality food since the beginning, but we have grown a lot both gastronomically and with regards to our service,” says Larsen, who is also celebrating his own 60th birthday this year.

“Obviously, our location meant that we had to work really hard to attract people the first couple of years but, gradually, it has become a place that people hear about and seek out themselves.”

Despite his initial cautious optimism, the chef went into the project wholeheartedly, constructing the premises of his new restaurant from scratch on the base of an old fisherman’s cottage in the harbour. In the 30 years that have gone by since, Larsen has built an undisputable reputation as the chef and owner of one of Denmark’s best seafood restaurants.

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Denmark

He has done so with the help of his wife, Ursula Plato, who is part of the efficient and service-minded group of waiters responsible for the friendly atmosphere that Rudolf Mathis is also known for.

“One of the reasons people come here is that we always do our very best to provide outstanding service. We love it when people come to try our restaurant, but we make our living from people who come back, and that is why it is so important to us to always give people the best possible experience,” says Larsen. The couple has succeeded in doing so to the degree that many loyal regulars drive all the way from Zealand and back for a visit to the restaurant.

Fresh seafood With Kerteminde harbour on the doorstep, it is natural that Rudolf Mathis sources most of its seafood from the surrounding waters. The locally sourced

fish is, however, served according to classic French traditions. This results in mouth-watering dishes such as king crab and clams in a lemongrass stock, and monkfish with artichoke, scorzonera root and Matelote sauce. “I’ve always preferred working with fish, but the fact that we ended up an actual seafood restaurant had a lot to do with the location. It took a long time to get permission to build and then to construct the restaurant and, even before we were finished, people and the media had begun referring to us as ‘the seafood restaurant’, and that has just stuck,” Larsen explains.

The food is served in set menus of two to four delicious dishes for lunch and three to five courses for dinner with an optional matched wine menu. Though most guests come for the whole menu, you can also scale down and opt for just

a main course, or you might dive head-on into the world of seafood and go straight for the 30-course anniversary dinner.

FACTS Rudolf Mathis is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday (closed in January and February).

The restaurant is named after Puk Larsen’s grandfathers, Niels Mathis and Hans Rudolf Pedersen, who owned the fishing cottage previously on the site.

Rudolf Mathis’ special 30-course anniversary menu is served Thursday– Saturday from 12 November until 19 December 2015.

For more information, please visit: www.rudolf-mathis.dk

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 83

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

Ceviche Miraflores.

Bartender Andrew Potter pours a drink.

Restaurant of the Month, Norway

Latin love on Oslo’s culinary scene If culinary passion has escaped you thus far in life, it certainly comes alive when Aymara’s head chef, Kim Daniel Mikalsen, talks about ceviche. Or Argentinian street food. Or Peruvian fine dining. At this Latin American restaurant, all of the above have found their well-deserved place on the Norwegian culinary scene, and subsequent praise has rained on both staff and owner. The latter, enthusiastic NorwegianChilean Rodrigo Belda, is humbly confident about the success: “We’re carving our own way in the culinary landscape by doing what others don’t. And we’re good at it.”

By Julie Lindén | Photos: Aymara

Heavily influenced by the cultural diversity of Latin America, as well as the common denominators found in its cuisines, Aymara has become Oslo’s go-to hub for exciting flavours, impeccably mixed drinks and a warm-hearted atmosphere. The inclusive philosophy, rooted in a blend of the best of Latin American ‘technical comfort food’ and Norwegian produce, has surely contributed to mak84 | Issue 83 | December 2015

variety of guests he meets at Aymara. “I love seeing elderly couples come here for a date night,” he says, smiling.

“We don’t really have a target clientele – people of all ages drop by and enjoy a meal, snack, drink, whatever takes their fancy that day. From the pre-theatre aperitif to the anniversary dinner, we accommodate everyone.”

ing Aymara a favourite for a large and growing clientele.

Passion, quality and a world of flavour

“The response has been outstanding,” says Belda, joined by Mikalsen. “We’ve been open for over a year and we’ve seen an ascending trend since day one.

In a word, it’s been fantastic.” Mikalsen explains that a circle of regulars formed early, underlining his fondness for the

Pure love permeates everything Aymara does, which is first and foremost noticeable in the culinary oeuvres served on your plate. The restaurant operates with a smaller menu that changes every two months, where all dishes are of a medium size. Guests are thus granted a choice of having a smaller snack or nibble at the

Scan Magazine | Restaurant of the Month | Norway

Head chef and co-owner Kim Daniel Mikalsen.

lively ceviche bar, or indulging in a larger, fully-fledged meal. Regardless of your choice, Aymara’s passionate philosophy only allows top-quality ingredients. That, and a whole lot of flavour.

“I absolutely despise pretentious dishes and layouts where elements of the meal are spread out across a big fancy plate.

Our philosophy is this: everything on your plate has, and must have, a meaning,” says Mikalsen. “Latin American cuisine is based on three quite simple pillars: salinity, acidity and heat. When those three convene, pure magic happens.” Belda adds: “That and some good, contrasting textures. Kim is excellent at bringing all of these elements together, crafting a truly enjoyable meal and experience.”

‘The new sushi’ Speaking of ceviche: if there was ever a Latin American foodie must, it is this Peruvian dish of fresh fish cured in citrus juices. The region’s cuisine displays some definite international influences, including traces of China’s Sichuan province and Japan, leaving this seafood specialty with the moniker ‘the new sushi’. Variations of the dish come your way by the special ceviche bar, a perfect spot to observe some of the cooking first-hand. And, with Norwegian waters

Argentinian wild shrimp, pickled carrots and Sichuan pepper glace.

providing the best growing grounds for quality fish, you can be certain that your meal is as fresh as can be. “Our fish is unparalleled, even when comparing it to other Nordic countries,” says Mikalsen.

“It allows me to plan the menu according to what’s good and fresh – giving it that additional boost.”

Culinary style is not the only thing borrowed from Latin America; the low-waste cooking philosophy has also made its way across the ocean. “They use what’s in season, just like we do, but they’re also incredibly good at using bycatch and the vast majority of each animal. We try to emulate that as much as we can,” says Mikalsen.

two colleagues answer in unison. “We know our style – we cook and create in ways of our own. It’s not just traditional and it’s not just modern. We combine elements of fine dining at top restaurants of the Latin American region, with street food and hidden treasures in the same culinary world. The most important thing is this: we always go our own way.” It is a way, no doubt, that seems to be working.

For more information, please visit: www.aymara.no

Service is everything A culinary experience is closely linked to those conveying it, something both Belda and Mikalsen emphasise. That is why each waiter at Aymara has a body of knowledge about the various dishes and the culinary culture they represent. “Service is everything. It can make or break a visit, and we’re well aware of that,” says Mikalsen. “I have to say, I’m so proud of our staff. They give it their all.”

Asked what separates their passion from that of other celebrated restaurants, the

The Cave.

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 85

Scan Magazine | Humour | Columns

IS IT JUST ME…

By Mette Lisby

Who thinks it must be a blast to be a scientist? When I need a break from work I like to browse NASA’s website, a habit I picked up recently when I decided not to waste more time browsing Facebook but instead wanted to smarten up and read about ‘space stuff’ (not the scientific term, I know) – trying to familiarise myself with a topic I was always interested in but never had the time to actually study.

The flipside is that I now miss out on invaluable information on Facebook on what my former classmates are up to: a broad range of fascinating adventures from people who have absolutely no relevance in my life, such as drinking tea, going for a walk, dreaming of cake or naming their pet fish Pete. Instead, I read pages with questions like ‘How will the universe end?’, ‘Why does time only move forward?’, and ‘Why does anything exist at all?’.

And I must say, I love it!

For the first ten seconds, it totally makes sense to me. I nod excitedly and genuinely think, ‘I’ve got it!’. And then… it’s gone! It is as if an evil magician takes it away from me: it simply disappears from my mental hard drive. The lyrics to Hanson’s MMMBop, however, are still there. Why is that? It’s a secret no one knows!

So I read this space stuff that I think I understand, but really I don’t – and just as that is about to depress me, I realise: neither does anybody else! Scientists are merely guessing.

Black matter, the Big Bang and what was before that – scientists are still debating these subjects, and various theories are wildly discussed but nobody really knows. When you read scientific journals, you realise that it’s all theories, guess work, assumptions, speculations.

Being a scientist, it turns out, is like being a US Presidential Republican candidate – you get to say whatever you want in public and no one actually expects you to be held accountable for the factual value at all. To quote the poignant and to-the-point lyrics of Hanson’s MMMBop: “Can you tell me? You say you can but you don’t know.” Hanson had it right all along.

Who knew?

Christmas taste During my childhood in Sweden, Christmas was a hushed affair. It was all about the soft fall of snow, gentle choir music and (sparse) white fairy lights. This is what I got to recognise as a tasteful Christmas.

We brought this concept with us when we moved to England. Now there was no soft falling of snow, but instead we had a picturesque cottage and ancient oak beams off which to hang our tasteful fairy lights. After university, I moved to London with a bunch of girlfriends who liked decorating our tree with dried orange slices and holly berries – tasteful.

And then I moved in with my English boyfriend and it all came crashing down. He turned up at our flat one December afternoon, his face flushed and his arms full of bags from our local pound shop. “I thought I’d get it all over with in one shop!” he declared, dumping the contents of the bags onto the floor. And there it was. The antithesis of tasteful. Pink tinsel, turquoise tinsel, foil banners, a light-up, plastic snowman and flashing neon fairy lights.

My initial reaction was to leave the flat and the relationship. Then I stared into the 86 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Mette Lisby is Denmark’s leading female comedian. She invites you to laugh along with her monthly humour columns. Since her stand-up debut in 1992, Mette has hosted the Danish version of Have I Got News For You and Room 101.

By Maria Smedstad plastic eyes of the light-up snowman and had an epiphany. Because there and then I, somewhat begrudgingly, realised that tasteful simply means that something is full of someone’s taste. And now I was living with someone also full of taste. Our tastes would simply have to merge, creating one very, very full taste. We have moved many times since our first flat, but wherever we have gone, I have insisted on bringing the lightup snowman. He now symbolises a different aspect of Christmas, even more important than taste: that of harmony and consideration for others.

Maria Smedstad moved to the UK from Sweden in 1994. She received a degree in Illustration in 2001, before settling in the capital as a freelance cartoonist, creating the autobiographical cartoon Em. Maria writes a column on the trials and tribulations of life as a Swede in the UK.

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Nordfyns Museum Vestergade 16, DK-5400 Bogense, Denmark Phone: +45 6481 1884 E-mail: nordmus@mail.tele.dk www.nordfynsmuseum.dk

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Scan Magazine | Business | Keynote

Scan Business Keynote 88 | Business Column 90 | Business Calendar 90 | Scandinavian Everyday Heroes 92

90

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You cannot not communicate – even when you are not there!

By Paul Blackhurst, client director at Mannaz

As we approach the holiday season, it is worth considering the nature of reality.

In an experiment earlier this year at the University of Delft in the Netherlands, researchers used pulses of laser light to entangle two electrons, set them each inside a tiny trap and then set each trap inside one of two synthetic diamonds.

The diamonds were then separated and placed at a distance of 1.3 kilometres apart. This was to ensure that information between them could not be exchanged by conventional forms of physics.

When a change was made to one of the electrons, the same change could instantaneously be measured on the other electron. This provided the first experimental evidence of one of the key tenets of quantum physics. Einstein’s ‘standard physics’ theory of local realism was disproven. Either God does play ‘dice’ with the universe, or electron spins can talk to each other faster than the speed of light. The solid, reliable, concrete world of Isaac Newton is only one way to look at reality.

It is the belief, in standard physics, that if there is space between two objects, they are independent from each other.

88 | Issue 83 | December 2015

This principle states that an object can only be influenced by its immediate surroundings. For an object to influence another object, it must first bridge the space between them. If one person wants to influence another, then something (a sound, image or object) must travel between them. This is the standard physics viewpoint. How does the quantum world open new ways of thinking about human interaction? If everything is interlinked at a quantum level, how can we augment our traditional ways of leading and managing? Do our beliefs and attitudes influence our organisations even when we are not ‘on stage’?

Some of this thinking is reflected in the concept of ‘spiritual intelligence’, as coined

by Danah Zohar in her book ReWiring the Corporate Brain. She defined 12 principles that are worth building into your new year resolutions: – Self-awareness: knowing what I believe in and value, and what deeply motivates me.

– Spontaneity: living in and being responsive to the moment.

– Being vision and value led: acting from principles and deep beliefs, and living accordingly.

– Holism: seeing larger patterns, relationships and connections; having a sense of belonging.

– Compassion: having the quality of ‘feeling-with’ and deep empathy.

– Celebration of diversity: valuing other people for their differences, not despite them.

– Field independence: standing against the crowd and having one’s own convictions.

– Humility: having the sense of being a player in a larger drama, of one’s true place in the world.

– Tendency to ask fundamental ‘why?’ questions: needing to understand things and get to the bottom of them.

– Ability to reframe: standing back from a situation or problem and seeing the bigger picture or wider context.

– Positive use of adversity: learning and growing from mistakes, setbacks, and suffering.

– Sense of vocation: feeling called upon to serve, to give something back.

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Scan Magazine | Business | Column / Calendar

The importance of influencing

By Steve Flinders

Let us start with a dictionary definition.

What is ‘the theory and practice of eloquence, whether spoken or written, the whole art of using language so as to persuade others’? In fact it is a definition of rhetoric, a central part of western education from ancient Greece to the 19th century – so the importance of influencing has been recognised for a long time, even if it goes under a different name today.

But why is it so important now? First, the leaner organisations get, the less direct authority managers have over many of the people they deal with. In the matrix (perhaps in more senses than one) world of the international company, this becomes even truer. Managers head project teams composed of people scattered across the globe over whom they have no direct authority, so that the only way to get them to do something away from their already

busy jobs is by successfully influencing them. Virtuality adds an extra dimension of difficulty: team members may hardly know each other, and the quality of virtual communication may be poor.

Another reason is generation Y. Clever millennials do not tolerate a command-and-control culture, so getting them to do what you want requires subtle influencing skills.

Finally, the one person who you really must be able to influence is your boss (or, to use the Scandinavian term, which I prefer, your nearest leader). Companies spend much more money training people to manage downwards than upwards, but I would like to see a better balance. Managing your nearest leader is an important professional skill, and doing it well is again all about influencing.

The last word goes to Tom Daschle, former US Senate majority leader, who wisely said: “The best way to persuade is with your ears.”

Next time, I will take a look at how we can improve our influencing skills.

Steve Flinders is a freelance trainer, writer and coach, based in Malta, who helps people develop their communication and leadership skills for working internationally: steveflind@aol.com; www.coachingyork. co.uk/item/steve-flinders/

Scandinavian Business Calendar

By Sara Asoka Paulsen

Highlights of Scandinavian business events ‘Tis the season for eating sweets and drinking mulled wine, and the business industry is no exception. Take every chance you get for a well-deserved, festive break!

Norwegian get-together in Aberdeen If you happen to be in Scotland in December, do not hesitate to join the Norwegian-British Chamber of Commerce for a few drinks.

Time and date: 16 December 2015, 6pm.

Venue: Malmaison Aberdeen, 49-53 Queens Road, Aberdeen AB15 4YP. www.nbccuk.com Christmas lunch with raffle Come along to the annual Christmas lunch of the Danish Chamber of Commerce in London, including a raffle alongside plenty of delicious Danish traditional food and drink.

Time and date: 11 December 2015, 12.30pm-4pm.

Venue: Hyatt Regency London, The Churchill, 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH. www.ducc.co.uk 90 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Northern Lights – Music for a Nordic Christmas The Temple Church Choir will perform a number of Nordic compositions directed by Roger Sayer. Built by the old Knights Templar, the church is impressive in its architecture and the perfect setting for a very special Christmas experience. The concert is part of the Temple Winter Festival and will be broadcast live on BBC radio 3.

Time and date: 18 December 2015, 7.30pm.

Venue: Temple, London EC4Y 7BB. www.templechurch.com Christmas dinner at the Swedish Church Join the annual Christmas dinner at the Swedish Church with traditional Swedish food and dancing around the Christmas tree – a nice way for expats to make the eve feel

Photo: DUCC

just like back home.

Time and place: 24 December 2015, church 5pm, dinner 6pm.

Venue: 6 Harcourt Street. London W1H 4AG. www.svenskakyrkan.se

Viking ships in Roskilde History for all the senses – year round

Experience five original Viking ships and see our impressive boat collection in the scenic Museum Harbour.

Look, feel, smell - and try!

The Viking Ship Museum focuses on the Vikings’ maritime craftsmanship and their impressive ships.

Exciting exhibitions – Films about the Viking ships and Sea Stallion from Glendalough – Dress as a Viking Activities for children – Go on board Viking ships Boatyard – Museum Shop – New Nordic Viking Food Scenic harbour life with Viking ships and historical wooden boats.

Go sailing on Roskilde Fjord: May 15 - September 30.

SPECIAL EXHIBITION 2014 The World in the Viking Age

– Seafaring in the 9th century changed the world! vikingshipmuseum.dk

Under the age of 18 admission free Open daily 10:00 - 16:00

(May 16 - Aug. 24: 10:00 - 17:00)

Transport:

Aalborg Århus

Roskilde

Odense Free car park. Train to Roskilde. From Roskilde Station bus route 203 or about 20 minutes’ walk.

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Scan Magazine | Feature | Scandinavian Everyday Heroes

'The grid.'

Behold the geek girl revolution One of the youngest ever recipients of the Vinnova innovation project funding, now Director of UX at Lookback in San Francisco, Heidi Harman is also one of two brains behind GeekGirlMeetup. This unconference network created for and by women and girls, aims to highlight female role models in the tech, design and start-up industries. Seven years since its inception, the initiative has grown into a global movement.

By Linnea Dunne | Photos: GeekGirlMeetup.com

“I’ve always been interested in technology and got a computer at an early age, as if that was the most natural thing in the world,” says Harman. She went on to study business design at Kaospilots in Denmark and entered the job market in the capacity of a technical project manager.

In 2008, she founded RunAlong.se, for which she was awarded in excess of 1MSEK in funding from the Vinnova innovation project fund. She recalls attending technology-focused conferences where few attendees were women, and so the idea for what was to become GeekGirlMeetup was born. “We wanted to create a place where you’d just be Heidi and free to geek away, where it didn’t matter that you were a girl,” she says.

92 | Issue 83 | December 2015

structured programme. “We ask conference participants how they want to contribute, for instance what they can talk about. As it’s a participant-driven conference, some give talks and others help out with the site,” Harman explains. “It’s like a pot-luck conference, created by everyone collectively.”

Self-organised and participant-drivenInspired by TED.com, the celebrated conference and series of talks, Harman and fellow tech-enthusiast Andie Nordgren founded GirlGeekMeetup in 2008. “Based on the idea that anyone can talk about their geeky passion for 20 minutes, we remodelled the TED talks concept,” says Harman. “That way, everyone in the room is intellectually enriched, and we become each other’s role models. We consciously decided against the idea of flying in big role models, choosing instead to work locally. The stars are there if you just research it properly.”

Every GeekGirlMeetup event is based on the unconference format, meaning that the informal exchange of information and ideas between participants is given more importance than a conventionally

The initiative started in Stockholm but has spread quickly. Today, GeekGirlMeetups take place all across the world, in places including Mexico, Oslo, Tunis, Copenhagen, Hong Kong, London and Singapore. “GeekGirlMeetup is 100 per cent self-organised, so as long as people work with the same motto of highlighting female role models within these specific sectors, they can go ahead and set up a branch,” says the co-founder. “This makes it easy for branches in other countries to get started. I still provide support via Skype as and when they need it, but tools like Slack and Facebook mean that control in the traditional sense isn’t really needed.”

Harman continues: “I’m really proud of the people who are setting up and run-

Scan Magazine | Feature | Scandinavian Everyday Heroes

Top: The Geekgirlmeetup UK team at the Google Campus in east London. Heidi Harman is second from the right. Bottom right: Harman talks at a Geekgirlmeetup in London.

ning GeekGirlMeetups locally in different places, because they really do contribute to the development and the highlighting of female role models in technology.”

Now based in San Fransisco, where she works as head of UX for Lookback, she is working on setting up GeekGirlMeetup US. “My current job is really fascinating as I love user experience work,” she says.

“I guess GeekGirlMeetup is a lot about that as well: how you change the experience of technology for young women.”

Innovation requires diversity That change is needed is beyond debate. A 2012 study by Women Who Tech found that despite the fact that women dominate the professional workforce as well as social media, only five per cent of tech start-ups are owned by women.

While women entrepreneurs start out with only one-eighth of the funding of their male counterparts, female-run, venture-backed companies have a 12 per cent higher revenue than male-run enterprises. In 2013, one in four computing jobs in the US were held by a woman, the equivalent number for tech jobs at Google being just 17 per cent.

And it starts early. The Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR) has found that girls get much less opportunity to use computers than boys do, and they get less encouragement in subjects such as math and science due to low expectations on their technical abilities. Subsequently, in 2013, only 18 per cent of computer and information sciences bachelor degree recipients in America were women.

man’s top tip to the tech women of the future? “Dare to fail fast. Reflect on why, learn from your mistakes and develop new theories of how to do it right. Then go again.”

The idea that more women in the tech, design and start-up industries would be a win-win situation is as natural to the geek girl herself as getting her own computer was. “Emerging markets are driven by innovation, and innovation requires diversity,” she argues. “As such, it is crucial that women are a part of these developments, conceptually as well as corporately.”

GeekGirlMeetup is in itself evidence not only of the fact that women can be both innovative and successful, but also that women in their thousands across the globe have a thirst for a tech environment where their ideas and contributions are valued, regardless of their gender. Har-

Photo: Miguel Angel Cardona Jr.

Are you a geek girl in the making?

Visit geekgirlmeetup.com and join the revolution!

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 93

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Music

Scandinavian music Last month’s Scan Magazine cover star, Seinabo Sey, is doing incredible things for the reputation of Swedish soul music internationally. But back home, there’s another young soul singer waiting in the wings to have her moment in the global spotlight. Sabina Ddumba has previously had hits with Scarred For Life and Effortless. But it is with her third single, Not Too Young, that she has really come into her own and showcased the phenomenal talent that is her voice. It is a show-stopping track, currently clocking up around 200,000 streams per day on Spotify in Sweden.

Over in Norway, the debut single from Dagny has just been released. She is a Tromsø native and Backbeat is her first release, a raucous and uplifting pop track with a generous helping of handclaps. Zane Lowe premiered the song on his Beats 1 radio show, which is an impressive start for any artist.

By Karl Batterbee

Collide is the brand new single from Swedish duo MAASAI – or Dominique Teymouri and Zackaries Ekelund, as they are known to their nearest and dearest.

A synth-pop track with a key change shoehorned in for good measure, it is produced by none other than Patrik Berger of Dancing On My Own (Robyn), I Love It (Icona Pop) and High and Low (Tove Styrke).

She has already made a name for herself writing hit singles for Avicii, Carli Rae Jepsen and Charli XCX, but now Sweden’s Noonie Bao is doing a Sia and going out on her own as an artist. Her new EP, Noonia, features five tracks all tailor made for heavy radio rotation. She has clearly been saving the best compositions for herself too. These would be monster hits in the hands of other popstars, but it is great to hear them delivered from the heart via Noonie’s inimitable vocals.

Finally, Scandipop Christmas songs?

Here are a couple of brand new seasonal tracks for 2015 that you should take a listen to as respite from the classics.

My Perfect Christmas by Nova Miller and It’s Christmas Time Again by Ida LaFontaine, both saccharine-soaked efforts by Swedish teen popstrels. ‘Tis the season. www.scandipop.co.uk scandipop@gmail.com

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Culture Calendar

Left: Little Eyolf, Eileen Walsh. Photo: Hugo Glendinning. Middle and right: From the exhibition Photography On. Photo: PUTPUT.

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

Juha Pekka Matias Laakkonen: Within a hollow sphere (Until 23 Dec) Finnish artist Juha Pekka Matias Laakkonen’s practice makes use of nature as raw material. His work often includes a performative element taking place in an isolated environment, such as the middle of a forest. Sometimes objects are produced during the course of the performance and remain as the only trace of the project. The artist brings a work to conclusion by writing a description of it, his words the only documentation of the piece. Corvi-Mora, London, SE11. www.corvi-mora.com Christmas from Sweden (23 Dec) This year’s concert showcases one of Sweden’s most luminous operatic per-

sonalities, lyric soprano Miah Persson, alongside internationally established ensemble Camerata Nordica. Swedish Christmas rarities from the folk music repertoire and late 19th century are matched with timeless classics from the Baroque and Romantic eras. Cadogan Hall, London, SW1X. www.cadoganhall.com

Little Eyolf (Until 9 Jan) An adaptation by director Richard Eyre of Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s Little Eyolf where Alfred Allmers casts aside his writing to dedicate himself to raising his son, until one event changes his life forever. Almeida Theatre, London, N1. www.almeida.co.uk

By Sara Schedin

Put Put: Photography on (Until 10 Jan) From coffee mugs with cute cat photos to t-shirts with holiday snapshots: applying photographs to everyday objects is so common that the phenomenon is often left unnoticed. In a brand new series of photographs, the Swiss-Danish artist duo PUTPUT brings these photographic objects to new, insightful and surprising contexts. Tue-Sun 11am6pm, Wed 11am-8pm. The Finnish Museum of Photography, Tallberginkatu 1 G, Helsinki. www.valokuvataiteenmuseo.fi

>

Issue 83 | December 2015 | 95

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Culture Calendar

BabaFish

Photo: Sigrid Spinnox

Lina Selander, The Hours That Hold the Form Photo: Lina Selander (see page 98 for information)

96 | Issue 83 | December 2015

Lina Selander, Around the Cave of the Double Tombs Photo: Lina Selander

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Culture Calendar

The Kiss IV, part of Impressions: Five Centuries of Woodcuts.

Photo: Dag A. Ivarsoy

Sakari Oramo conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra (15 Jan) A classical evening of music by Butterworth, Anna Clyne and Elgar conducted

by Finnish Sakari Oramo. Barbican Centre, London, EC2Y. www.barbican.org.uk

BabaFish (19-23 Jan) Assisted by her father, an inventor by trade, Swedish-born artist Anna Nilsson has devised a Heath Robinson-esque set, where a ball bearing spins around weird and wonderful machinery and pendulums wave. It provides a poignant backdrop for an abstract tale about time running out. Part of the London International

Passersby, part of Impressions: Five Centuries of Woodcuts.

Photo: Dag A. Ivarsoy

Mime Festival 2016. Barbican Centre, London, EC2Y. www.barbican.org.uk Soile Isokoski and the London Philharmonic Orchestra (23 Jan) Finnish soprano Soile Isokoski sings Strauss’s Four Last Songs after serenades by Mozart and Magnus Lindberg’s Gran Duo. Royal Festival Hall, London, SE1. www.southbankcentre.co.uk

Impressions: Five centuries of woodcuts (Until 24 Jan) The exhibition features a wide array of Norwegian and international woodcuts.

It shows the works of artists such as Hanne Borchgrevink, Tore Hansen, the Kierulf sisters and Mamma Andersson.

The selection is wide-ranging, spanning from Albrecht Dürer to a newly produced installation by Thomas Kilpper. It also displays exquisitely executed Japanese colour woodcuts from the 18th and 19th centuries. Though the formats and styles vary greatly, the works are linked by their use of graphic techniques. Tue, Wed & Fri 10am-6pm, Thu 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm. The National Gallery, Universitetsgata 13, Oslo. nasjonalmuseet.no

> Issue 83 | December 2015 | 97

Scan Magazine | Culture | Scandinavian Culture Calendar

Gerda Wegener, Lili with a Feather Fan Photo: Morten Pors

Moment – Lina Selander (Until 28 Feb) Lina Selander is one of Sweden’s most innovative moving image artists. Her films and installations can be read as compositions or thought models, where ideas and conditions are weighed and tested.

She examines the relationships between memory and perception, photography and film, language and image. Tue & Fri 10am-8pm, Wed-Thu & Sat-Sun 10am6pm. Moderna Museet, Skeppsholmen, Stockholm. www.modernamuseet.se

Gerda Wegener at Arken (Until 16 May) The painter and illustrator Gerda Wegener aroused a furore in Denmark, but was fêted in Paris because of her sophisticated line and her elegant portraits of women. She was married to the landscape painter Einar Wegener, today trans woman Lili Elbe. Decadent, frivolous Paris made it possible for them to live out their controversial love affair in which playing with gender and identity became the central focus. Arken presents the biggest exhibition so far of works by the pioneering artist whose life and works strike a chord in our own time. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, Wed 10am-9am. Arken Museum of Modern Art, Skovvej 100, Ishøj. www.arken.dk Gerda Wegener, The Carnival.

Photo: Morten Pors

Enough said.

www.greendog.no

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UNIQUE COTTAGES

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