Arenastaden has been transformed into a magnificent meeting place in just a short space of time, boasting fantastic shopping, great companies and one of the world’s most modern stadiums. Arenastaden attracts over a million visitors every year. More hotel rooms, long-stay accommodation and new offices are now being built, and there are many more plans for the district. There’s no doubt this is a thriving, fast-pace district. But we felt we were lacking a younger person’s perspective and creativity.
In spring 2019, Fabege launched a project called Miniature Art – Wellbeing, Safety & Playfulness together with Ulriksdal School in Solna. The project was part of the students’ secondary school art and design options, which aimed to encourage them to explore and develop different forms of expression, and to design something.
In the winter the students were invited to Arenastaden to see the possible places that Fabege had chosen to display the artwork. We asked them to come up with suggestions as to how to add a touch of playfulness to Arenastaden. Elements that surprise and get people to stop and admire them for a moment. Something that breaks up the day; something colourful that demands the focused attention of the viewer, because it may deceive the eye at first glance.
The students were given the chance to both create works of art for specific locations, and explain their thinking behind it. We then selected seven pieces to set up, and these are now on display in a larger format in designated locations around Arenastaden.