Collaborative work for public art project

STUDIO MAX GERTHEL is a collaborative practice engaging in projects in the field of visual art. The studio has a extensive experience of working with artists in the realisation of research projects, exhibitions, events and public commissions. Integrating art with buildings and translating artistic visions into built work is a key competence that strengthens both the artist, the art, the architecture and has the potential of deepening public engagement.

Vikenförbindelsen, Karlstad, Sweden, 2025-

För-bindelse-akter is a public artwork currently under construction for the infrastructural bypass Vikenförbindelsen in Karlstad, Sweden. It consists of three sculptural works placed from east to west at different locations along the bypass. The artwork takes its point of departure in a boat hull – in the skeleton and shell that form the interface between boat and water. The three sculptures can together form a single continuous hull, as if they originate from one and the same vessel divided into architectural signs.

The intervention is anchored in Viken’s history through Wennberg’s Mechanical Workshop and its ship production from the early 1900s. We draw from Wennberg’s original drawings of a tugboat from 1916. The artwork connects to the vision’s three concepts: time, movement, and the changes of light. The sculptures evoke portals and pavilions – spatial enclosures that embrace the human body and form small stages along the route. Their placement from east to west follows the sun’s movement from morning to evening, each piece aligning itself with the the rays of the sun at a certain time of the day.

The title För-bindelse-akter links the ship’s bow (för) with its stern (akter), while simultaneously pointing to the connection (förbindelse) itself. Through all parts of the artwork, we want to activate the entire Vikenförbindelsen and contribute to a continuous urban environment.

Collaboration between Studio Max Gerthel and artist David Svensson for Karlstads kommun.

Novo Nordisk Bagsværd

Collaboration with visual artist David Svensson for a public artwork on a pipe bridge on Novo Nordisk facilities in Bagsværd, Copenhagen. Currently under construction.

Sävar Station

Proposal for a public artwork in the new Sävar Station North of Umeå along the new Norrbotniabanan. With artist David Svensson.

Regionsjukhuset Gävle

Collaboration with visual artist David Svensson for a public artwork in red brick integrated into the facade of the Regional hospital in Gävle, Sweden. Recently completed.

Gäddgårdsskolan

Collaboration with artist David Svensson for an artwork integrated in a new school in Arboga, Sweden. Project currently in production to be installed spring 2026.

Norra Hallsås Skola

Trollkronan, a 10 m high sculpture in copper with glass trolls. Currently in development, to be installed in 2027. For artist David Svensson