Hallands Kunstmuseum— Halmstad, Sweden. Swedish quality art museum
I only had one day in Halmstad. Did I expect something grand from a small town art museum? Honestly, no. But my goodness, how wrong I was. Once again, I was convinced, first, not to judge something you don't know in advance, and second, that Swedes know how to surprise you.
What is Hallands Kunstmuseum?
Hallands Konstmuseum was founded in 1943. It was established through a merger of the art collections in the region, with the main museum building located in Halmstad.
It is the regional art museum for Halland County and funded by the county council, which is amazing, because it is always inspiring and soothing to see the city budget going upon cultural projects like this.
Don’t miss their audio comments where applicable — nice and precise stories are told about some of the displayed pieces, all you need is to scan the QR code with your phone.
Why worth visiting
The museum’s collection mainly focuses on art from the Halland region. If you want to understand the region’s mentality, history, heritage, traditions – you can see it through the art here. Big attention goes to the famous Halmstad Group of Swedish modernists. It’s also very strong in contemporary art and design.
The best part is the well implemented visitor experience. They have a fantastic, concise audio guide, well-written and clear exhibit texts, and excellent navigation throughout. Professionalism of the curating team is noticeable.
Toilets
Yes, toilets. I always pay attention to small details that are not immediately obvious, such as the design of non-exhibition spaces. And the story behind the design of the museum's restrooms won my heart.
Artist Eva Bengtsson is behind the ceramic tiles that cover the walls and floors of the museum’s new toilets. She made more than 6,000 hand-rolled tiles to make up the installation. Each with a unique expression built around different themes. The work features organic white reliefs, painterly surfaces, rich glazes, and more structured designs where repeated words and letters form graphic patterns. You can come there as into a special sport of art space altogether and explore them, just like I did.
Tiles by Eva Bengtsson
Last, but not least. Library
One thing that really tells you a museum gets it is when they put real care into their library.
The Hallands’ library is located in the oldest part of the building. It was dreamed up by furniture designer Gustav Person, he filled it with beautiful custom-made bookshelves, cozy seating, and even a little meeting room.
He pulled inspiration from all over: playful lamps that look like Duni cups, wallpaper with classic local knitting pattern, and gave the whole space this quiet, creative energy. It’s the thoughtful touch that makes you want to sit down, open a book, and stay awhile. Love it.
