Öland has a long tradition as a base for artists, writers and designers. Over time, this valuable cultural heritage has been consolidated and preserved, and around the island there are a large number of active artists, craftspeople and writers. it is easy to understand that the artists are inspired by the unique and talked about light that can be experienced on Öland. Most circumscribed in the context of art is Vickleby, which during the Second World War became the center for several of Sweden's most important artists at that time. The travel ban out of Europe limited the opportunities to travel to Paris and be inspired by world artists such as Matisse or Cézanne. Instead, a number of artists and cultural figures gathered in the South Öland village around what came to be known as the Vickleby School, founded by Arthur Percy and William Nording.
Open studios can be found all over the island and several art tours are organized by local artist collectives and other cultural associations. At local booksellers and country merchants you will find novels, poetry collections, children's books and non-fiction books, published by current Öland authors. Local design is mainly felt in the potters who are active around the island. Here you can find everything from small-scale production to internationally established brands.
A common denominator is that Öland's nature often inspires form, color and function. Maybe that is why educations in design and art are established at Capellagården in Vickleby and Öland Folkhögskola in Skogsby? The many students obviously leave their mark and contribute to art and design continuing to develop here. Student exhibitions are arranged regularly and maybe you will meet tomorrow's world artist here? Or why not give yourself a spin course this summer?
