Art
Practice | Research Energy
Kvitbrakka is a multidisciplinary art hub in the Arctic Norway: with AiR programme we create space for collaboration between international artists and local artisans/ industries to stimulate innovative art making and cultural activities
Kvitbrakka AiR aims to develop research tools and site-specific artworks that examine how cultural practitioners and local industries critically address and creatively negotiate ecological futures of the North
ABOUT US
Located on the northern tip of Norway, Kvitbrakka is a quiet bay for the restless minds. Since its inception in 2012, Kvitbrakka has welcomed more than 50 international artists, writers, musicians and guests. Over the years the residency has been gradually developing with increasing interest and support from national institutions and regional partners to become an important cultural reference for the Nordic region.
FAQ
Can I apply for additional funding for my residence? Yes, Kvitbrakka can provide applicants with a letter to apply for extra funding.
What materials/tools are available locally? Berlevåg has a local construction shop Bygg AS, other nearest shops are located in Tana and Båtsfjord. Oftentimes required tools could be borrowed from a very responsive and helpful community if asked in a dedicated Facebook group. Most materials are readily available online and are usually delivered to Berlevåg post office within a week. If you are thinking to spare your luggage weight and space, please check the tools and materials for your project in Norwegian* online stores prior to arrival, this will save you unnecessary stress, time of waiting for delivery and expenses. If you are planning ordering online from the shops outside Norway, make sure that you are within the guidelines of import for goods. * All imported goods to Norway pass customs control. It's always good to consult the shop`s customer service, if unsure about the policies.
How to reach Berlevåg? Within Norway: Berlevåg has a local airport operated by Widerøe as well as Hurtigruten boat dock – depending on where in Norway you are based, the trip might look something like flight Oslo-Kirkenes + boat Kirkenes-Berlevåg or Snelandia minibus Kirkenes-Berlevåg (the bus must be booked at least 24 hours prior to the planned trip). If you travel by car, bear in mind that roads might be closed due to severe weather. Website 175.no provides real time info on the roads. Sleeping facilities are available in case of sudden road closures. Internationally: there are no direct international flights to neither Berlevåg, nor Kirkenes, therefore your trip may look like flight to Oslo + flight Oslo-Kirkenes + bus/boat to Berlevåg or if you land in Bergen you may take Hurtigruten boat directly to Berlevåg. Outside EU zone: flight Moscow-Murmansk + taxi Murmansk-Kirkenes + minibus/boat Kirkenes-Berlevåg.
In case of health emergency Berlevåg has a local health center and ambulance brigade. In critical situations patients are hospitalized to a dedicated regional health facility by helicopter. There are no pharmacies in the village, so please bring all the necessary medicine with you, especially if you don't have Norwegian health insurance. Over the counter medicine (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen) can be ordered online and delivered to Narvessen shop or bought directly in kiosk. * If you have severe allergies, make it evident to Kvitbrakka staff and always double check the ingredients list of novel/unfamiliar foods and products. Sometimes a quick label screen through Google translate can spare you stress and an ambulance ride.
What to wear? For the winter season the short answer would be "wool and layers". Windproof technical jackets with deep hoods and light-reflective elements will do the best. Winter boots with ice cleats or a pair of rubber boots for the beginning or the end of the season. Outside the winter months (November-March) the coastal weather is mostly mild. Some summer days could be warm and sunny. The only constant is the wind, so a softshell parka or wind + waterproof jacket will do the work. Category 3 UV protection eye glasses will be a good idea for the sensitive eyes and sunscreen with SPF 30 even for the overcast days. Prior to arrival, download the YR app – there you will find precise weather forecasts and danger alerts useful for the Eastern Finnmark area, which are getting renewed every 10 minutes.