Sørlandet Art Museum
Agder
The Southern Norway Art Museum, known locally as Sørlandets Kunstmuseum, is situated in Kristiansand, Norway, within the historic building that formerly housed the Kristiansand Cathedral School until 1970. Established in 1995 as a foundation initiated by the counties of Aust-Agder and Vest-Agder along with the municipality of Kristiansand and the Kristiansand Art Gallery, the museum focuses on both visual arts and crafts. It aims to foster interest, awareness, and expertise in various forms of visual expression. The museum hosts extensive activities including exhibitions of its permanent collection, temporary contemporary art shows, and traveling exhibitions to schools and preschools. Its permanent collection originates from the art held by the Kristiansand Art Gallery and features notable Norwegian artists such as Christian Krohg, Morten Müller, Johan Christian Dahl, Amaldus Clarin Nielsen, Kjell Nupen, Karsten Jakobsen, and Else Marie Jakobsen. In 2024, the museum transitioned to the new Kunstsilo facility on Odderøya, marking a significant development in its presentation and outreach.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current exhibitions and opening hours, as well as to consider visiting during temporary contemporary art exhibitions for a dynamic experience. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for special events or group visits. The museum often offers educational programs and traveling exhibitions to schools, making it a valuable cultural resource for families and educators.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's building was originally the Kristiansand Cathedral School until 1970.
- •Its permanent collection includes works by prominent Norwegian artists like Christian Krohg and Johan Christian Dahl.
- •In 2024, the museum transitioned to the Kunstsilo, a new cultural venue in Kristiansand.
- •The museum actively runs traveling exhibitions to schools and preschools, promoting art education in the region.
History
The Southern Norway Art Museum was founded in 1995 as a foundation by the counties of Aust-Agder and Vest-Agder, together with Kristiansand municipality and the Kristiansand Art Gallery.
It was originally housed in the building that served as Kristiansand Cathedral School until 1970.
Over time, the museum developed its collections and activities focusing on both art and crafts.
In May 2024, the museum was replaced by the Kunstsilo on Odderøya, representing a new chapter in its history and expanding its cultural presence in Kristiansand.
Place Guide
Permanent Collection
The permanent collection features classic and contemporary Norwegian art, including paintings and crafts by artists such as Christian Krohg, Morten Müller, Johan Christian Dahl, and Kjell Nupen, reflecting the region's artistic heritage.
Temporary Contemporary Exhibitions
The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary visual arts, providing visitors with fresh perspectives and current trends in the art world.
Contact
Phone: 38 07 49 00
