The Museum of Work, known locally as Arbetets museum, is a captivating destination located in the heart of Norrköping, Sweden. Housed in the distinctive Strykjärnet building, which translates to The Iron, this museum is perched on the island of Laxholmen in the middle of the Motala River. The museum, inaugurated in December 1991, is a testament to the rich industrial heritage and everyday life of Sweden, offering an engaging and insightful experience for visitors of all ages.
The Museum of Work is more than just a museum; it is a national central museum dedicated to preserving and narrating the stories of work and daily life. The museum’s foundation was established by prominent organizations including the Swedish Trade Union Confederation (LO), the Swedish Confederation of Professional Employees (TCO), and various educational associations. This collaborative effort underscores the museum's commitment to documenting and celebrating the labor history of Sweden.
The Strykjärnet building itself is a piece of history, originally constructed for Holmen's cotton weaving mill and used from 1917 to 1962. The building's unique triangular shape, reminiscent of an iron, makes it an architectural marvel and a fitting home for a museum dedicated to work and industry.
The Museum of Work is renowned for its diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions. One of the permanent exhibitions is The Story of Alva, which delves into the life of Alva Karlsson, a roller at the cotton mill from 1927 to 1962. This exhibition not only highlights Alva's personal story but also provides a window into the broader history of the textile industry in Norrköping.
Another long-running exhibition, Industriland – When Sweden Became Modern, ran from 2007 to 2013. This exhibition explored the period from 1930 to 1980, showcasing objects and themes significant to both work and daily life during this transformative era. Visitors could see everything from a conveyor belt filled with historical items to themed rooms depicting leisure, global influences, living, and consumption.
In 2014, the museum unveiled Framtidsland (Future Land), an exhibition that picks up where Industriland left off. This exhibition, which ran until 2019, examined what a sustainable society might look like, drawing on conversations between young people and researchers across Sweden. Themes such as work, environment, and daily life were explored, offering visitors a forward-looking perspective on sustainability.
Since 2009, the Museum of Work has also been home to the EWK – Center for Political Illustration Art, dedicated to the works of satirical illustrator Ewert Karlsson (EWK). This center preserves, develops, and showcases Karlsson's political illustrations, and also hosts thematic exhibitions featuring national and international political illustrators. This initiative aims to highlight and strengthen the art of political illustration, making it a unique and thought-provoking addition to the museum's offerings.
The museum also recognizes the power of visual storytelling through its Documentary Photography Prize, awarded annually since 2001. This prize honors photographers whose work has a documentary focus, capturing the essence of work and everyday life. Notable recipients include Lars Tunbjörk, Elisabeth Ohlson Wallin, and Roger Turesson. Since 2014, the museum has also awarded a prize for Volunteer of the Year, celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of documentary photography.
The Museum of Work plays a crucial role in supporting approximately 1,500 work life museums across Sweden. These museums, often located in preserved former workplaces, aim to convey their unique histories. By providing resources and support, the Museum of Work helps ensure that these important stories are preserved and shared with future generations.
A visit to the Museum of Work offers a rich and immersive experience. Whether you're exploring the permanent exhibitions, delving into the world of political illustration, or discovering the latest documentary photography, there's something for everyone. The museum's location on the picturesque island of Laxholmen adds to the charm, offering stunning views of the Motala River and the surrounding historic buildings.
In conclusion, the Museum of Work is not just a museum; it is a vibrant and dynamic space that brings the history of work and everyday life to life. Its exhibitions, archives, and programs offer invaluable insights into the past, present, and future of labor in Sweden. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the stories of everyday people, the Museum of Work in Norrköping is a must-visit destination.
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