A place in constant transformation
Since its founding in 2006, Kivik Art Centre has grown out of a vision to create a place for art and culture that is as alive as the landscape in which it is set. The initiative was born in Österlen, where a group of dedicated individuals sought a place where art, architecture, and nature could meet in an open and exploratory context. Over time, the site has developed from an idea into a sculpture park and art gallery where international voices and local experiences shape a place that is never “finished” — always in motion, always in dialogue.
Below is a timeline of key moments in the history of Kivik Art Centre.
The Kivik Art Centre Foundation was established on 14 July 2006 with the aim of creating an art and cultural centre in Österlen.
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The initiative was the result of a long-term commitment from individuals active in the area. After an extensive search, the ideal location was found at Bergdala Farm — one of the most scenic environments in Österlen.
The vision was to create a place unlike any other: an art centre that grows organically over time and is never entirely finished. From the very beginning, there was also an ambition to include residency programmes for artists and architects, as well as to eventually establish an exhibition hall.
Between 2007 and 2017, the foundations of Kivik Art Centre’s activities were established, with a focus on the meeting between sculpture, architecture, and nature
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As early as 2006, the vision was presented publicly and the foundation took its first steps through a widely noted press meeting. In the summer of 2007, activities began with KIVIK START, during which the architectural firm Snøhetta constructed pavilions in the landscape around Lilla Stenshuvud.
In the years that followed, internationally renowned figures such as Antony Gormley, David Chipperfield and Snøhetta became involved with the site. Since then, Kivik Art Centre has continued to grow with new works, while its artistic foundation remains the same — a place in constant transformation that is never truly finished.
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Behind the scenes, planning is in full swing, while on site much remains untouched. The first works are leaving Bergdala Gård for temporary storage at Svabesholms Kungsgård, awaiting permanent placement in the new area.
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The artistic foundation remains unchanged, and Kivik Art Centre continues to operate at the intersection of three-dimensional art, architecture, and the surrounding environment, where all elements are equally important and each work is rooted in a shared platform.
Starting in 2024, the next phase of development begins as Kivik Art Centre expands beyond Bergdala. A new Sculpture Park is established at Svabesholm Manor in Svinaberga, creating opportunities for future growth.