The Artipelag art gallery, events and exhibition centre is located on Värmdö, 20 km east of Stockholm. The name is a play on words, fusing the concepts of art, activities and archipelago into one nomenclature.The developer wanted a space where culture and landscape could blend. Together with the architect they found the island of Hålludden to be the perfect location for his idea to become a reality. The building is constructed in such a way that it appears to be growing out of the earth’s surface.
One of the exhibit halls at the arts centre is even named after the architect and truly showcases the style with specially drawn walls and the advantageous use of the natural light, blurring the lines between the inside and the outside. There is also an arts room of 3,000sqm and a so called “black box” of 1,200sqm with a seating capacity of 1,000 people, where other events are held such as theatre and music shows, conferences and banquets. All in all, Artipelag covers an area of over 10,000sqm over three floors, with 22 acres of the surrounding natural scenery.
This at-one-with-nature theme can be felt throughout the complex, from the entrance hall where the visitor is met by the four elements in various guises: earth, wind, fire and water, and the two million year old rock face in the restaurant which is also part of a permanent exhibition, to the star gazing platform on the roof. Incidentally, the roof has been voted the greenest in Scandinavia last year. One can step outside and walk around on the wooden walkways meandering along the coastline and through the trees, and enjoy the spectacular view.
Artipelag boasts both permanent and temporary exhibits. The opening presentation entitled “Platsens Själ” explored the realms of nature, architecture and art and how they interact in contemporary society. Other exhibits include a visual essay by the renowned photographer Candida Höfer and the history of how artificial light has become a medium for art.
Artipelag is where to experience a beautiful mix of art, culture, architecture and Swedish design at its best and the place for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the real beauty of Stockholm.