Kunst på heving (Art Rising) is a collaborative project. Artists Elisabeth Thorsen and Trude Johansen explore dough as an artistic medium through sculptures, edible artworks, and bread-based prints. Children and young people are invited to create their own figures, which become part of the exhibition. The project brings light, life, and activity to a vacant space, highlights local history, and offers the public experiences that appeal to both the senses of art and taste. The exhibition is displayed in the bakery’s windows and is accessible at all hours.

 

The idea for the project emerged when Elisabeth Thorsen visited the Pomor Museum and saw the traditional bread figures associated with the Pomor trade; she has since researched this subject as inspiration for the exhibition. The project uses dough and bread as its artistic medium, exploring how everyday ingredients can 

 

be elevated to convey form, history, and aesthetic expression.

 

 

The art project Kunst på heving (Art Rising) in Vardø was concluded summer 2026, and artists Elisabeth Thorsen and Trude Johansen look back on a rich project period, marked by high participation and many meaningful encounters.

 

The project drew inspiration from Vardø’s baking culture, local history, and the historical bread figures associated with the Pomor tradition. These figures served as a starting point for creating sculptural baked goods for the exhibition and an art installation that bridges local history and contemporary art. Throughout the project, workshops were held where participants could try their hand at both printmaking and baking figures inspired by historical shapes.

 

One of the highlights was the Morrabrød (Morning Bread) event at Hengpikkhjørnet (Hanging dick corner). The name refers to an old nickname for the location, said to have originated because older residents used to gather there for a chat. The event aimed to revive this old place name, bring life and bustle back to the corner, and fill the otherwise empty premises with people, conversation, and activity. Turnout was excellent; the public enjoyed Morrabrød, Vardøværingcakes, assorted toppings, and coffee, while the artists collected recipes, stories, and memories related to the town's baking culture. The project also explored the role the bakery once played as a social meeting place in the town.

 

 

The project concluded with a well-attended exhibition. The artists are very pleased with the response and level of engagement they encountered throughout the project. It was also gratifying to see interested visitors from Vadsø make the trip to see the exhibition.

 

The artists wish to extend their sincere thanks to everyone who attended events, shared stories and recipes, contributed knowledge, and helped make the project possible in various ways. Special thanks go to the North Norwegian Art Centre, Vardø Municipality, and Vardø Museum for their support, collaboration, and assistance. The warm reception and participation of the people of Vardø have been crucial to the project’s content and outcome.