Revitalization Efforts and Leadership Changes in Swedish Arts Scene
Gotland's art scene revitalizes with significant renovations, while Wanås sculpture park appoints a new artistic director.
Key Points
- • Region Gotland plans to invest 70 million kronor in renovating the Konstmuseum in Visby.
- • Debora Voges appointed as the new artistic director of Wanås skulpturpark, succeeding Milena Høgsberg.
- • Local art scene thriving, but concerns exist about supporting multiple institutions amid financial uncertainty.
- • Ongoing efforts to enhance visibility and engagement in Swedish arts and culture.
Recent developments in Sweden's arts and culture sector indicate a significant revitalization effort on Gotland as well as a leadership transition at Wanås sculpture park.
Region Gotland is planning a renovation of the Konstmuseum in Visby, with the project estimated to cost around 70 million kronor. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the local art scene, which has struggled in recent years, particularly at the Baltic Art Center (BAC) in Visby. The BAC, which was once a vibrant exhibition space, ceased its public activities in 2007 due to funding issues, operating instead with a focus on small-scale studio programs. The Konstmuseum itself faced challenges in 2019, closing for a time due to indoor climate problems and moving its collections to the Fornsalen historical museum. Local artisans remain active throughout the year, particularly during the summer season, but there are concerns about the financial sustainability of supporting multiple art institutions, including the potential takeover of Körsbärsgården art hall in Sundre after the retirement of its founders. Oscar Lindster, the culture committee chairman, expressed hope that both institutions could effectively complement each other amid economic uncertainties.
In a parallel development, Debora Voges has been appointed as the new artistic director of Wanås skulpturpark in Skåne, succeeding Milena Høgsberg. Voges, who previously worked as a curator at Lunds konsthall and has experience from the Tate Gallery in London, emphasized her excitement about leading the sculpture park. She stated, "I am incredibly happy about the chance to lead such an extraordinary organization... I am determined to ensure that many more will discover its magic in the coming years." Wanås Konst is recognized as home to the largest collection of contemporary sculptures in Sweden, featuring 80 permanent artworks.
These leadership changes and planned renovations reflect a renewed commitment to enhancing Sweden's cultural landscape, aiming to restore the vibrancy of its artistic communities and attract further engagement from the public.