In this article, art historian Christer Dynna traces the evolution of craft in public space in Norway, exploring how artists gradually secured a place in state-funded building projects from the mid-70s onwards. Dynna outlines the steps leading up to the establishment of the Norwegian Public Building Ornamentations Fund in 1976, and delves into the debates between artists, architects, and stakeholders over artistic integration, quality, and fairness, highlighting key moments of conflict and collaboration.

In this article by Andrea Fjordside Pontoppidan, we are introduced to two interdisciplinary art and architecture projects: Soil Lab and Futurefarmers, both of which bring forth a focus on soil through craft making in public spaces, but in different ways and contexts.

A conversation between Hilde Skancke Pedersen and Yaniya Mikhalina

In this article by professor in art history Elin Haugdal, we are introduced to the artwork AAhkA by Sámi artist Outi Pieski, planned for the new government quarter in central Oslo. The integrated artwork comprises a 50-metre-high wooden relief, portraying a female figure, which will be visible day and night through the transparent walls when the building, ‘A-block’, is completed in 2025. Haugdal discusses the artwork’s relationship to the practice of duodji, to the concept of care, and to the idea of monumentality.

This article, written by Drew Snyder, senior curator at KORO Public Art Norway, the Norwegian governmental agency for art in public spaces, explores the relationship between craft practices and public art, focusing on three case studies: the ceramic vessels by Lisbet Dæhlin and Elisabeth von Krogh in the Norwegian government quarter, the textile artworks by Elisabeth Haarr at the Norwegian Embassy in Washington DC, and the monumental integrated sculpture by Aage Gaup at the Bodø airport in Northern Norway.

A collage of craft in public space by editors Ida Højgaard Thjømøe and Marianne Zamecznik

In this call-to-action essay, artist Helene Duckert offers up a myriad of ideas, prompts, and discussions to fuel change and engagement through craft, written with the intention that it will remind the readers of their fundamental responsibilities.

'Craft in Public Space' is the editorial for The Vessel 8, edited by Ida Højgaard Thjømøe and Marianne Zamecznik.

Foreword by Norwegian Crafts for The Vessel 8 'Craft in Public Space'

In this interview by Tora Endestad Bjørkheim and Johnny Herbert, Norwegian artist Lillian Tørlen reveals her thoughts on materials, vases and the importance of the exhibition site.

Iver Jåks' artistic talent became obvious during a long period of hospitalisation following a reindeer herding accident in his youth, and he was admitted to the Sámi folk high school in 1950, when he was 18 years old. Set on becoming an artist he later attended the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry and later the Art Academy in Copenhagen. His artistic practice incorporated Sámi duodji objects, materials, and techniques, in addition to drawing, large-scale sculptures and art in public space. In this article by Irene Snarby we learn about the life and art of Iver Jåks, and about duodji as a contemporary art practice.

Nanna Melland is known for making jewellery with unorthodox materials. In this interview by Monica Holmen we are introduced to her practice which spans from personal jewellery to public installations.

An interview with textile artist and musician Pearla Pigao by Tora Endestad Bjørkheim and Johnny Herbert

An interview with craft artist Sigve Knutson by Tora Endestad Bjørkheim and Johnny Herbert