By
Rebecca Gibson |
Hurtigruten’s first hybrid-powered expedition cruise ship, Roald Amundsen, is to feature multiple pieces of artwork handpicked by Her Majesty Queen Sonja of Norway’s art foundation, the Queen Sonja Print Award (QSPA).
Currently undergoing final outfitting works at Norway's Kleven Yard and due to begin service in 2019, Roald Amundsen will be equipped with almost 600 artworks by HM Queen Sonja, young Norwegian artists and previous QSPA award winners. The collection will include multiple prints in all suites, cabins, restaurants, staircases, corridors and other public spaces.
“Hurtigruten strives to provide its guests with an unforgettable experience,” said HM Queen Sonja of Norway. “Exquisite art to enjoy on the journey is part of this experience. The Viking ships were decorated with the most beautiful wooden carvings: dragon heads and flowers, ornaments and animals adorned Leiv Eiriksson’s ship – as he fought his way through the waves towards Newfoundland, where he first set foot. Today, 1,000 years later, we continue the tradition and decorate a proud ship – sailing on our oceans on a much more peaceful mission than back in the early Viking age.”
In addition, Hurtigruten and QSPA will explore the possibility of developing joint merchandise and organizing art talks, exhibitions and other activities with resident artists onboard Hurtigruten’s expedition ships.
“We are very excited about the new partnership and the opportunities this presents to our guests,” said Daniel Skjeldam, Hurtigruten CEO. “HM Queen Sonja, QSPA and Hurtigruten found each other through a common love for the outdoors, nature and art. At Hurtigruten, we are building the next generation expedition ships. QSPA is highlighting the next generation of young artists. A partnership is a very natural fit.”
Hurtigruten and QSPA also plan to work together to curate the artwork onboard Roald Amundsen’s sister ship Fridtjof Nansen, which is slated to debut in summer 2019.