Scandinavians are renowned internationally for their modern aesthetic and innovations in architecture and design, At the same time, they are passionate about preserving their past. Explore the creative contributions of noted artists, architects, and designers reflected in the region’s beautiful capitals with art historian Karin Alexis, an expert on Scandinavian and Nordic art and culture.
9:30–10:45 a.m. Sweden’s Stockholm: Venice of the North
Stockholm, built on many islands, boasts medieval spires, elegant castles, grand baroque palaces (including the monumental Royal Palace), and distinctive 19th- and 20th-century buildings. Drottingholm Palace is still home to the Swedish royal family. Examine the work of artists such as Anders Zorn, Carl Larsson, and Carl Milles in the city’s many museums. In the south of Sweden, the province of Skåne is dotted with castles and manor houses, reminders of the area’s rich history.
11 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Denmark’s Copenhagen: Queen of the North
Known as the “Queen City” of the North, Copenhagen is home to medieval churches, Renaissance castles, baroque palaces, and Dutch-inspired gables, as well as sleek examples of midcentury Danish modern design, including home furnishings by Georg Jensen and buildings designed by Arne Jacobsen, also known for his iconic chairs,.
12:15–1:15 p.m. Lunch (box lunch provided)
1:15–2:30 p.m. Finland’s Helsinski: Capital on the Baltic
The Finnish affinity for architecture is evident everywhere in Helsinki, from the elegant classicism of Senate Square’s renowned cathedral to Eliel Saarinen’s art nouveau-inspired Helsinki Central railway station to Alvar Aalto’s modernist masterpiece, Finlandia Hall.
2:45–4 p.m. Oslo and Reykjavik: From Leif Erikson to Modernism
Oslo is known for its famous Viking Ship Museum; the Munch Museum, dedicated to expressionist painter; and Vigeland Park, filled with more than 200 figurative sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Reykjavik is home to the Hallgrímskirkja church, a 20th-century expressionist design reminiscent of a glacier; the award-winning, strikingly modern Harpa Concert Hall; and the Einar Jónsson Museum and Sculpture Garden.
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit
