Voices in Public Art: Mapping Freedom of Speech and Expression in the Nordic Region

Name: Voices in Public Art: Mapping Freedom of Speech and Expression in the Nordic Region
Start: 2026-04-17T09:00:00+02:00
End: 2026-04-17T16:00:00+02:00
Location: Karl Johans gate 47, 0162 Oslo, Norge

Schedule

Fri Apr 17 2026 at 09:00 am to 04:00 pm

UTC+02:00

Location

Karl Johans gate 47, 0162 Oslo, Norge | Oslo, OS

“Voices in Public Art: Mapping Freedom of Speech and Expression in the Nordic Region” will assess the current state of public art and the conditions for freedom of expression in the Nordic region today. With perspectives from across the Nordics, the conference will map the current landscape and highlight key issues related to art, democracy, and freedom of expression.
Through knowledge sharing, case studies, and conversations, we will explore how artists and actors in the art field navigate a public sphere marked by increased polarization and growing pressure on freedom of expression. The conference will serve as a meeting place to identify shared challenges and strategies, and to explore and discuss experiences and practices from across the Nordic region.
We ask which forces are attempting to limit freedom of expression, and which methods we have to strengthen it in response. To what extent are artists today affected by harassment, censorship, and self-censorship? What support, trust, and frameworks do artists need to work freely in public spaces? What challenges arise at the moment when an artwork is realized and encounters audiences, media, and public debate? Can controversy and engagement around public art help strengthen freedom of expression, and why do we so often fail to turn conflict into constructive dialogue?
The conference aims to facilitate the exchange of experiences and shared reflection across the Nordic region, and marks the beginning of a series of conferences that will build on the insights and issues raised here.
🟣 The program is available on our website and will be updated continuously: https://www.mesen.no/voices-in-public-art
🟣 Get your ticket here: https://mesen.hoopla.no/event/voices-in-public-art
Information about accessibility:
There is an elevator for wheelchair users in all three buildings. Visitors who need assistance can call the event phone 901 31 755 when they are outside, and a host will come and accompany them inside.
“Voice in Public Art” is part of the initiative FORCE – a platform for artistic freedom of expression and democratic dialogue. FORCE aims to bring together participants from across the Nordic region for a current, interdisciplinary discussion on the role of art in the public sphere, and to serve as a platform for strengthening preparedness for artists working in public spaces.
🟣 Read more about FORCE here: https://www.mesen.no/force
The event is supported by the Nordic Culture Fund, the City of Oslo, and The Finnish-Norwegian Cultural Institute.