Imagining Norden - branding and Nordic reputation
Perceptions of the Nordics abound, from the reputation of the Nordic welfare state to that of interior design. Content on this page seeks to examine the construction and deconstruction of the different 'brands' of the region; why, when, where and how the region, its individual countries, its way of life, what it produces etc are branded. New articles are added regularly.
2019.06.20 | The Quick Read, Petra Broomans, The arts
Ballet in Denmark
Denmark is home to many contemporary and classical ballet companies, such as the Royal Danish Ballet. The influence of Danish choreographer and ballet dancer August Bournonville can still be seen on a national and international level.
2019.06.19 | Article, William C Miller, Architecture & design
Nordic architecture: creative currents in the 21st Century
Twenty-first century Nordic architecture embraces a variety of architectural ideas and directions, presenting fresh approaches with a renewed sense of the importance of architecture as a form of cultural expression and creation. Complementing new forms of urban public space is an explosion of civic architecture; cultural, educational, and communal…
2019.06.05 | The Quick Read, William C Miller, Architecture & design
Prominent 21st century architecture in Iceland
From infrastructure and housing projects to culture and recreation centres, recent Icelandic architecture includes a range of design directions, among them the neo-modernism characteristic of the Nordics.
2019.05.22 | The Quick Read, William C Miller, Architecture & design
Fusion of art and nature along Norway’s scenic routes
A national initiative developed by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) from the 1990s onwards creates numerous artistic, architectural, and landscape design experiences located along scenic travel routes in Norway’s striking and dramatic natural settings. Intended to increase access and bolster businesses in the rural countryside, the…
2019.05.22 | The Quick Read, William C Miller, Architecture & design
Prominent 21st century architecture in Norway
An affluent country, Norway boasts remarkable productivity in architecture and infrastructure in recent decades, often drawing on neo-modernism, as well as a profound appreciation of the country's natural landscapes.
2019.05.21 | Article, Hannah Yoken, Gender, Reputation, Research
Transnational interaction among feminist activists in the Nordic Countries, 1970s-2000
The Nordic countries are globally renowned as states that embrace gender equality. However, the region also has a rich history of feminist activism at the grassroots level. This history includes activism undertaken during ‘second wave’ feminism, from the late 1960s to the 1990s. During this period of time the women’s movements benefitted from…
2019.05.08 | The Quick Read, William C Miller, Architecture & design
Prominent 21st century architecture in Finland
Recent Finnish architecture of note includes civic, cultural and religious works, ranging in style from neo-modernism to the more culturally referenced.
2019.04.29 | Biography, Joachim Mickwitz, Pietari Kaapa, Literature
Pentti Saarikoski (1937–1983)
The modernist Finnish writer Pentti Saarikoski became famous for his revolutionary sensibilities and anti-authoritarian Christian faith.
2019.04.29 | Biography, Joachim Mickwitz, Pietari Kaapa, The arts
Kalle Holmberg (1939-2016)
One of Finland’s leading theatre directors, Kalle Holmberg became known for his politically conscious productions.
2019.04.25 | The Quick Read, Inken Dose, Culture, The arts
Danish Cultural Institute
Founded in 1940, the Danish Cultural Institute aims to foster intercultural understanding both at home and abroad, and has branches in seven countries with activities and networks in many more. Financed by the Danish Ministry of Culture, private funds and its own revenue, it focuses on diverse themes.