Gallery Lofoten – Open your eyes to Lofoten
The biggest collection of North Norwegian paintings from around the turn of the last century – the Golden Age of North Norwegian painting.
In the charming village of Henningsvær, the arctic version of Venice, lies a gem of artistic heritage – Gallery Lofoten. Steeped in history and beauty, this gallery is a treasure trove of North Norwegian paintings from the Golden Age of the late 19th century.
Upon entering the gallery’s ground floor, you are greeted by a vast collection of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Otto Sinding, Gunnar Berg, and Adelsteen Normann. The walls come alive with vibrant colors, capturing the essence of North Norwegian landscapes and seascapes in their most glorious moments.
*All images by: Aurora Stenersen
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Ascending to the first floor…
A world of watercolors awaits you, courtesy of the celebrated artist Lars Lerin. His unique technique, using shades of grey, blue, and ochre, beautifully depicts the interplay of light and nature. “It is actually light that is my motif,” says Lerin, and in his art, you can feel the ethereal magic of the Lofoten scenery.
As if that weren’t enough, the first floor also showcases an extraordinary collection of works by H.M. Queen Sonja herself. A passionate artist, the Queen’s creations embrace various techniques, including lithography, etching, and aquatint. Her “Three Journeys, Three Landscapes,” created with Kjell Nupen and Ørnulf Opdahl, and “Texture,” with Magne Furuholmen, are testament to her artistic prowess.
Shop and exhibited artists
Strolling through the gallery, you’ll find a shop teeming with art books, postcards, and posters featuring the exhibited artists. But why not take a break and savor the local flavors? In the cozy café, indulge in a glass of wine and a delightful cheese platter from Aalan Gård cheese factory. Or treat yourself to freshly brewed coffee and organic pastries from Unseld bakery.
Beyond its artistic marvels, Gallery Lofoten holds a greater significance – it shaped the perception of Lofoten’s grandeur for the nation. The paintings transformed natural wonders into aesthetic treasures, fostering admiration for their intrinsic value. As a result, Lofoten’s landscapes flourished as a tourist attraction, akin to the region’s flourishing fisheries.
*In frame: May Linn Hjørnevik
In Henningsvær, Gallery Lofoten remains a testament to the power of art to transcend time, to capture nature’s essence, and to inspire generations to cherish the enchanting beauty of Lofoten and its artistic legacy.
Take a moment to take it all in. See through the eyes of the artist and where they have found their inspiration.