Villa Lofoten AIR invites artists, scientists, and artisans to stay in our historic buildings, to work, get inspired, and reflect. In the rural surroundings of Kvalnes, they get to explore the tension between the permanent and the passing, between conversion and transgression. Our experience is that – each in their unique ways – the artists who visit Villa Lofoten express ideas about the present, the past, and the possibilities for the future.

Villa Lofoten AIR wants to stimulate artistic production based upon resources and subject matter that is locally available, resulting in works that spark interest in local resource and environmental issues, through a global perspective. 

The place is well-suited for artists who write, compose, photograph, dance, design, work in film, textile and/or develop their concepts, as well as researchers interested in Arctic culture and nature.

The program want to foster dialogue between visiting artists and the local community. During their stay, the AIR facilitates participation in workshops for young people and children, and/or for open Artists talks. We value the gathering of participants from different cultures, genres, nationalities, and beliefs in order to build networks and relationships across borders, genders, and ages.

Our Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program has operated since 2015. A list of former participants in this program is displayed below.

The program is currently supported by Nordland County Council.