For many years, art has been an inextricable part of Læsø’s identity, and for almost two centuries this island has played a major role in the life and work of some of Denmark’s greatest artists.
What is particularly special is how the unique artistic retreats of two of Denmark’s and the world’s most acclaimed artists – Asger Jorn (1914-1973) and Per Kirkeby (1938-2018) – have been recreated and preserved. The nature, tranquillity, contemplation and the ability to escape from the bustle of the metropolitan art scene whenever they needed to, were essential for these two artists.
Now, as a result of collaboration with a number of recognised partners in the Danish and international art worlds, Læsø AiR (Læsø Artist in Residence) will ensure that the retreats of the two artists remain a symbol of history and the artists’ work and residence on the island, serving as inspiration and support for future generations of artists.
In 2022, the Læsø AiR residencies will provide:
- Use of the studio and accommodation in Per Kirkeby’s artist’s retreat, ‘Haabet’, on the island of Læsø, in its beautifully scenic seaside setting.
- Payment of travel costs (economy class) to and from Læsø.
- A grant of DKK 7500 (1000 EUR) to cover living costs, transport and expenses for materials and production during the residency.
- A bespoke programme of visits to Danish art venues and a mentoring scheme with individual professional feedback from Læsø AiR’s mentoring group.
- A local stakeholder and knowledge group for introductions and networking.
- 2-3 ‘Open Studio’ events, in which the artist will take part during their stay on Læsø.
Professional Danish visual artists can apply for residencies of 6 weeks’ duration. Professional foreign (non-Danish) visual artists can apply for stays of 12 weeks’ duration.
1 Danish artist will be selected for a residency in the following periods:
- 29 May to 9 July 2022.
- 17 July to 28 August 2022.
- 4 September to 16 October 2022.
- 19 October to 30 November 2022.
1 foreign artist will be selected for a residency in the following periods:
- 1 June to 31 August 2022.
- 4 September to 4 December 2022.
