Fossekleiva Arts Centre and Berger Museum: A delicate mix of Norwegian culture and nature

Dreaming of experiencing art, history or nature this summer? Fossekleiva Arts Centre and Berger Museum tick all the boxes. Housed in the buildings of Fossekleven Fabrik, a disused textile factory from 1889, the arts centre is characterised by the rich history of the premises, spiced up with contemporary art and numerous activities.
 
Dreaming of experiencing art, history or nature this summer? Fossekleiva Arts Centre and Berger Museum tick all the boxes. Housed in the buildings of Fossekleven Fabrik, a disused textile factory from 1889, the arts centre is characterised by the rich history of the premises, spiced up with contemporary art and numerous activities.

The arts centre and museum are situated in the village of Berger, one of Norway’s best-kept industrial communities. Today, the area is a living hamlet of fruit production, art and beautiful nature. “Hop on the bus, in the car or on the bike if you wish, and after a short drive from Drammen or Sande, you will find yourself in Berger. The journey here is a sight in itself – a beautiful ocean drive with beaches, fruit farms and scenic nature along the way,” says Franzisca Aarflot, managing director at Fossekleiva Arts Centre.

This summer, in addition to the permanent exhibitions, guests can experience new work from the Norwegian sculptor Marit Wiklund and various work from artist Aske Dam at the museum.

Photo: Fossekleiva Arts Centre

 
“Both artists have been a part of Fossekleiva since the early 1980s. They were among the first artists present in the old factory building,” says Aarflot.

In the summer exhibition, Marit Wiklund will showcase a new wood sculpture as well as a series of work in plaster and canvas. Artist Aske Dam’s works include clay, photography and digital media, and this summer Dam’s work can be seen in photos, video and ceramics. “Throughout the summer, Dam will also host a series of events linked to the exhibition – such as screenings and lectures,” adds Aarflot.

The art scene in Berger is vibrant and diverse. Several Norwegian artists have permanent, open ateliers at Fossekleiva Arts Centre, including sculptor Marit Wiklund, potter Ingrid Rauer and the artists Kikki Hovland and Helle Bingen.

Fossekleiva Arts Centre and Berger Museum are open all week except for Mondays. The weekends are especially eventful – often with live music on Saturdays, ranging from jazz to funk and Norwegian folk. “On Sundays, we arrange art workshops for kids with professional artists as tutors. Children are invited to explore drawing, sculpture and land art,” says Aarflot.

And if you get hungry after taking in all the art, nature and culture, Café Jebsen is open daily except for Mondays. Maybe a cold glass of wine and a light meal, or a cup of coffee with a slice of freshly baked cake is what you need? Here, you’ll find it.

Min Tanka dancing on the roof of the new National Museum in Oslo. Photo: Aske Dam

Summer exhibition:
13 June to 16 August
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12-5pm

www.fossekleiva.no
www.bergermuseum.no