ARoS Aarhus Art Museum | Aarhus

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of Denmark's largest and most prominent art museums, located in the city of Aarhus (also spelled Århus), Denmark’s second-largest city. Known for its innovative architecture, diverse collections, and significant contemporary art exhibitions, ARoS has become a major cultural institution in Denmark. The museum’s focus spans a wide range of art forms, from classical to contemporary, with a special emphasis on Danish art.

Overview

• Name: ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
• Location: Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
• Founded: 1859
• Architectural Style: Modernist, featuring the Rainbow Panorama designed by Olafur Eliasson.
• Collection Focus: Danish art, contemporary art, international art, and temporary exhibitions.

History and Development

Founded in 1859, ARoS was originally named Aarhus Kunstmuseum (Aarhus Art Museum) and served as a cultural center for the city of Aarhus. Over the years, it has grown in size and reputation, becoming one of the leading cultural institutions in Denmark.

In the early 2000s, the museum underwent a major renovation and expansion, and its architectural redesign was spearheaded by the Danish architectural firm SCHMIDT, HAMMER & LASSEN. The renovation was completed in 2004, and the museum has since been known for its modern, striking design, highlighted by the iconic Rainbow Panorama by Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson.

Architectural Design

The architecture of ARoS is as notable as the art it houses. The building’s design combines sleek modernist elements with traditional museum spaces.

Rainbow Panorama:

• One of ARoS’s most famous features is the Rainbow Panorama, a circular, glass walkway that sits atop the museum. Designed by Olafur Eliasson, it is an art installation in itself, offering visitors a panoramic view of the city through colored glass panels that transform the cityscape into a spectrum of hues.
• The 360-degree view from the Rainbow Panorama is an integral part of the museum’s identity and provides an innovative way for visitors to experience both the art and the city of Aarhus.

Modernist Architecture:

• The museum’s design is a striking mix of modernist and functional elements, with spacious galleries and sleek, minimalist forms.
• The expansion in 2004 added new floors, exhibition spaces, and the rooftop art installation. The architecture of ARoS emphasizes openness, accessibility, and the blending of art with public spaces.

Central Atrium:

• The grand atrium serves as the museum's main entrance and is characterized by its light-filled, airy environment. It often features large-scale artworks, making it a focal point of the museum.

Art Collections and Exhibitions

ARoS houses a diverse collection of art, with a primary focus on Danish art from the 19th century to the present, as well as contemporary international art. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and installations, offering visitors a wide variety of art experiences.

Danish Art:

• The museum has an extensive collection of Danish art, including works from the Golden Age of Danish painting (early 19th century) through to modern and contemporary Danish artists. The collection features key figures such as C.W. Eckersberg, Vilhelm Hammershøi, and P.S. Krøyer, along with more contemporary artists.

Contemporary Art:

• ARoS is particularly known for its emphasis on contemporary art. The museum features works by internationally renowned contemporary artists, with exhibitions covering a range of media including painting, sculpture, installations, video art, and performance art.
• Artists like Yoko Ono, Damien Hirst, and David Hockney have featured in past exhibitions.

International Art:

• In addition to Danish art, the museum also features significant international collections. Its exhibitions showcase global art movements from abstract expressionism to pop art and conceptual art.

Special Exhibitions:

• ARoS regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, focusing on specific themes, genres, or individual artists. These exhibitions may cover historical movements, avant-garde trends, or cutting-edge contemporary art, and they often feature interactive, immersive art experiences.
• Notable exhibitions in the past have included retrospectives of Andy Warhol, Marina Abramović, and Jeff Koons, as well as themed exhibitions on minimalism, surrealism, and digital art.

Notable Features

The 9 Spaces (9 Rum):

• One of ARoS's most unique features is the exhibition area known as 9 Rum (The 9 Spaces). This space consists of nine large, interconnected rooms that are used for experimental and immersive art installations. The exhibitions in this space focus on innovative and provocative works, often by emerging artists or those working in conceptual art.
• The space is used to explore themes such as identity, technology, and politics through art.

The World’s Largest Painting:

• The museum is also home to the world’s largest painting, created by Danish artist Per Kirkeby. The massive piece, titled "The Epic of the Future", is a monumental work that spans an entire wall in the museum and features a combination of abstract and landscape painting.

Visitor Experience

Museum Layout:

• The museum's interior layout is spacious and accessible, with multiple floors dedicated to different art forms and periods. Visitors can navigate the museum through a series of open galleries that allow for easy flow between exhibitions.
• The museum also features temporary exhibition spaces, a museum shop, and a café where visitors can enjoy a coffee while taking in the surroundings.

Family-Friendly:

• ARoS is family-friendly, offering interactive exhibitions and educational programs designed for children and young visitors. The museum often hosts workshops and art activities aimed at fostering creativity and engagement with art from a young age.

Public Programs:

• The museum offers a range of public programs, including guided tours, lectures, artist talks, and workshops. These programs provide deeper insight into the museum’s exhibitions and the works of featured artists.

Visitor Facilities:

• Café & Restaurant: The museum features a café and a restaurant that offer visitors a place to relax and enjoy food and drinks.
• Museum Shop: The shop sells a wide range of art books, design objects, and unique museum-themed merchandise.

Visitor Information

1. Opening Hours:
   • ARoS is generally open daily. Hours may vary depending on special events or temporary exhibitions, so it is best to check the museum’s website for up-to-date hours before planning a visit.
2. Admission Fees:
   • Admission is generally required for access to the museum’s exhibitions. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children. Special rates may apply for certain exhibitions or events.
3. Getting There:
   • ARoS is located in downtown Aarhus, making it easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and trains. The museum is within walking distance of major city landmarks, and there are parking options nearby.

Conclusion

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is a cultural gem, offering a rich and diverse exploration of art in all its forms. With its mix of Danish and international art, striking architecture, and innovative exhibitions, ARoS is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art, design, and culture. Whether you are looking to experience modern art, iconic design pieces, or interactive installations, ARoS provides an enriching and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.