4 International artists were welcomed as guests of the town of Jørpeland, in South Western Norway, for 4 weeks in the summer of 2005. More than 4 tons of scrap metal was transformed into vibrant art and sculpture all within a studio housed in a former steelworks building “Det Gamle Skallstøperiet” – “ The Old Casting Foundary”, directly adjacent to the living steelworks of Scana Steel.

The artists lived and worked in a fantastic studio together for 4 weeks. The local steelworks Scana Steel AS – Norways only specialist steel producer – were involved in supporting their work with materials , know-how, equipment, casting etc.

THE ARTISTS

Richard Heinrich, NewYork NY, USA

Richard was delighted with his partication in the 2002 symposium and created two sculptures this time. His sculpture “Mongs Munch” is today placed close to the Town Hall and has become a favourite play-sculpture for children of all ages and is seen by all who drive through Jørpeland.

Geir Hjetland, Balestrand, Norway
Geir is taking part for the second time this year. He was a central figure during the last Symposium and does not hide the fact that he wants to be involved this summer to. Geir is especially looking forward to the fascinating raw materials, a completely unique studio and not least to renewing his acquaintance with the curious inhabitants of Jørpeland.

Bob Emser, Chicago, USA
Bob Emser is a Chicago based sculptor and a promising artist and has already come to notice for his airy, light and floating sculptures. Emser is one of the most widely exhibited, most individual, and talented of the new generation of mid-career public sculptors. During his 25+ year career he has served as a visiting artist and has taught at several universities, held a tenure professorship and founded a not for profit art center. He has also served as the executive director of Chicago’s international sculpture exhibition, Pier Walk. This was Bob's first introduction to Norway and believes the rumours of it being a very special place.

Asgar Ole Olsen, Oslo, Norway
Asgar Ole Olsen graduated in 1986 from the State Art and Industrial Craftwork College in Oslo and is a qualified hand craftworker. Prior to that he worked as a welder and sheet metal worker.

More recently, Asgar work has centred on the decoration of public and private buildings as well as exhibiting. His work is almost exclusively made with metal, which includes sheet metal and body work in steel, rust free stainless steel, copper, brass and cast-iron.