Galleries, Art, and Creative Activities in Flekkefjord
Embark on a journey through Flekkefjord’s vibrant galleries. Whether you enjoy figurative or abstract art, fine crafts, or stunning photography, there’s something for everyone.
Downtown Flekkefjord is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts, brimming with sculptures, street art, and the iconic "Red Carpet" installation. Created by artist Christian Sunde, this piece was a gift to the city and its people from Flekkefjord Sparebank in celebration of the town’s 175th anniversary in 2017. A must-see—especially at night!
#finnhodet or #hiddenheads is a project artist Christian Sunde launched on Instagram in 2017, though the head project itself dates back much further. Scattered across nature, rural villages, towns, and cities, the Flekkefjord-based artist has hidden small iron heads in secret locations throughout Norway and beyond. Join the hunt!
Galleries in Flekkefjord
Galleri Gulbrandsen, located at Kirkegaten 56, near the Town Hall and the Building Heritage Center, opened in November 2021 and is a rare explosion of color—just like the artist himself. If you love vibrant colors, bold art, eccentricity, and the extraordinary, this gallery is a must-visit. It’s a place where art goes beyond the ordinary, pushing boundaries and embracing the "larger than life".
We promise you a colorful and unforgettable experience!
Galleri Imago spans multiple creative fields, bringing together painting, photography, interior design, crafts, and fashion under one roof. This gallery is designed to be a place where everyone feels welcome. Whether you want to browse, get inspired, or admire the talent of incredible artists, Galleri Imago offers a unique and carefully curated selection of art and design.
Stop by—you might just discover something truly special!
Frank Øverland’s art is sure to put a smile on your face—while also surprising you or making you pause for thought. His work ranges from highly detailed and figurative pieces to bold abstract expressions. Explore the popular Bodyhang series, where well-known personalities take center stage, alongside a diverse mix of abstract and figurative art.
Bring your family or friends—a memorable experience is guaranteed!
Artists and musicians Jack Bjørkhaug and Marit Ananiassen longed for more sun, warmth, family, and friends in Southern Norway. They eventually found a home in Feda, Kvinesdal, and in March 2023, they opened a gallery in Flekkefjord – Galleri M. Jack is a musician, and Marit is a visual artist. At Galleri M, visitors can sometimes experience a wonderful blend of both art and music.
Marit also has an open studio, where guests can witness art in the making!
Galleri Gulbrandsen
He’s Come Home - Not everyone knows it, but Flekkefjord has its very own museum dedicated to artist Lars Kristian Gulbrandsen, also known as Tatjana. Galleri Gulbrandsen, located at Kirkegaten 56, near the Town Hall and the Building Heritage Center, opened in November 2021 and is a rare explosion of color—just like the artist himself.
A Colorful Personality with Many Facets - Tatjana Lars Kristian Gulbrandsen (b. November 26, 1931 – d. July 2, 2005) was a Norwegian visual artist who spent much of his active life on Hidra in Flekkefjord. His work is part of Queen Sonja’s Art Collection, and he bequeathed most of his over 1,000 works to Flekkefjord, along with his home, Gloarbu. Known for his flamboyant persona, he often dressed in women’s clothing and wore face paint.
A Life Lived in Color - Gulbrandsen’s extraordinary sense of color and aesthetics is showcased in a striking exhibition of his personal belongings and collections. Strolling through the gallery is both a delight and an inspiration, offering a glimpse into the global citizen that Tatjana Lars Kristian Gulbrandsen embodied through his art and life.
Collaboration and Local Engagement - Galleri Gulbrandsen is a collaboration between Flekkefjord Municipality, Flekkefjord Art Association, and Vest-Agder Museum. The Flekkefjord Art Association also hosts its own exhibition on the ground floor, featuring Gulbrandsen’s works alongside pieces by other artists.
Two Exhibitions in One - Gulbrandsen is represented in two exhibitions: a permanent exhibition showcasing his life, work, home, and unconventional lifestyle, curated by county exhibition architect and designer Marita G. Cappelen. And a rotating exhibition, alternating between his own works and pieces by artists inspired by him, curated by the Flekkefjord Art Association.
A Historic Setting - Galleri Gulbrandsen is beautifully situated in northern Kirkegaten (No. 56), in a protected building from 1820. Over the years, the building has housed a manor, a bank, a town hall, and a library—and now serves as a gallery for one of Norway’s most original artists.
If you love bold colors, eccentric art, and the extraordinary, Galleri Gulbrandsen is a must-visit. We promise you a vibrant and unforgettable experience!
Galleri Imago
A Sanctuary for Artistic Souls – Located in the heart of Flekkefjord, at Kirkegaten 13, Galleri Imago is housed in a historic and beautiful space. Founded by master photographer Klara Kristine Liland from the former Studio Imago and Hilde Husebø from Galleri Bøgwald, the gallery is a creative hub designed to inspire and engage. It is a place where artistic souls and those who appreciate the good life can come together.
Creativity and Inspiration - Galleri Imago is a boutique-style gallery that spans multiple disciplines, bringing together painting, photography, interior design, crafts, and fashion under one roof. Creativity is the common thread. With their artistic backgrounds, the two co-owners are passionate about curating an inspiring space filled with exceptional art.
"Our vision is to create a universe that stimulates the senses, provides meaningful experiences, and sparks great conversations," they explain.
New Arrivals Every Month - In addition to monthly rotating exhibitions, the gallery also features a custom framing workshop, Glass art, ceramics, and jewelry
Galleri Imago has three Instagram accounts, each dedicated to a different area:
More Than Just a Gallery - At Galleri Imago, you will find a gallery, a boutique for clothing and interior design, and a professional photo studio—all under one roof. It is a space for both seasoned art lovers and those simply looking for inspiration.
Galleri Imago is a place where everyone feels welcome. Whether you want to browse, admire, or discover the work of talented artists, this gallery offers a one-of-a-kind selection.
Galleri Frank-rike
Bodyhang – In 2017, followers of Frank Øverland on Instagram and Facebook noticed a new creative spark. Suddenly, images of bass guitars, motorcycles, and everyday life were replaced by unique paintings under the name "Bodyhang."
The series features famous personalities and other subjects suspended in a distinctive and striking way. The response was overwhelming, marking the beginning of his artistic journey. In 2019, Øverland took the next step and opened his own gallery – Frank-Rike.
Abstract and Figurative Art - Located at Elvegaten 11, Frank-Rike is Øverland’s personal art kingdom. The gallery showcases pieces from the popular Bodyhang series, with well-known figures as central motifs, along with a diverse selection of both abstract and figurative art.
A Space of His Own - At the gallery's opening, Øverland shared his thoughts with the newspaper Agder:
"This is my place. A gallery, a storage space, and a studio where I can paint. My living room at home became so full of paintings that I couldn't invite people over. There were artworks everywhere. Now, I finally have a space just for this—my own place."
With a Sense of Humor - Øverland approaches his work with a touch of humor:
"People who know me say there must be something truly unusual in my head. My art goes in all directions, but I’m happy I have the courage to do this—to share it with the world. I've stepped outside my comfort zone and created more abstract art, which isn’t typically my style. But when it gets applause and finds buyers, it feels incredible."
An Eclectic Collection - The gallery features an extraordinary variety of subjects:
A street in Venice
A rose
A military helicopter
Famous rock artists
Cityscapes
Abstract works
The artistic world inside Frank Øverland’s mind may be a little unconventional, but perhaps that’s exactly why he now embraces the title of artist.
Art That Makes You Feel - Frank Øverland’s art is guaranteed to make you smile, surprise you, or leave you deep in thought. His work spans highly detailed figurative pieces to bold abstract expressions.
Bring your family or friends—it will undoubtedly be an experience to remember!
From Northern Norway – Artists and musicians Jack Bjørkhaug and Marit Ananiassen longed for more sun, warmth, family, and friends in Southern Norway. They eventually found a home in Feda, Kvinesdal, and in March 2023, they opened a gallery in Flekkefjord – Galleri M. Jack is a musician, and Marit is a visual artist. At Galleri M, visitors can sometimes experience a wonderful blend of both art and music.
A Serendipitous Discovery - Galleri M is located at Elvegaten 15, where Elvegaten meets Brogaten, right in the heart of Flekkefjord. The couple discovered the space during a stroll through the town. Here, Marit exhibits her own artwork, alongside contributions from ceramic artist Anne Kirsten Hegland-Grimm.
Having previously participated in solo and group exhibitions in Northern Norway, Marit aims to continue this work in the south and welcomes guest artists to exhibit at the gallery.
Printmaking, Clay, and Photography - Marit works with painting, printmaking, clay, and photography, creating both abstract and figurative pieces. She often draws inspiration from music, people, and nature. Having explored a wide range of techniques and materials, she enjoys incorporating textures into her paintings.
Witness Art in the Making - "I now have a small studio in the back room. My plan is to work there while the gallery is open, so visitors can catch a glimpse of the artistic process. It’s great that Flekkefjord now has several art galleries—it gives people more to see and helps build a stronger art community," says Ananiassen in an interview with Agder newspaper.
Art School, Graphic Design, and Art Therapy - Originally from Tromsø, Ananiassen studied at the Art School in Lofoten and completed four years of teacher training in practical and aesthetic subjects in Tromsø. She also holds a foundation degree in graphic design and is a trained art therapist.
Music and Local Engagement - Jack Bjørkhaug is a guitarist who previously worked as a full-time musician. Now a part-time musician, he is actively involved in the gallery and is becoming part of Flekkefjord’s local music scene. He also plays in the band "The Glædis."
A Space for Art and Music - Jack and Marit envision Galleri M as a place where visitors can drop by and enjoy both art and music.
"It was quite a challenge to transport and set up the grand piano we bought in Sandefjord, but now it’s in place, and we’re planning some mini-concerts in the gallery," says Bjørkhaug.
Galleri M
Art in the city
Flekkefjord’s History on Display – The artwork "Red Carpet", created by Christian Sunde, was a gift to the people of Flekkefjord from Flekkefjord Sparebank in honor of the city's 175th anniversary in 2017.
A Striking and Elegant Meeting Place - Located at Tollbodplassen, between Spira Cultural Center and the waterfront, "Red Carpet" enhances the cityscape with its clean design and symbolic storytelling. The artwork invites visitors to follow Flekkefjord’s history, beautifully presented through a refined aesthetic.
In 2017, Mayor Jan Sigbjørnsen described the piece:
"Christian Sunde has succeeded in creating an identity-building artwork that brings people together, sparks conversations, and offers a new way to engage with Flekkefjord’s history. I extend my heartfelt thanks—first and foremost to the artist for this remarkable piece, to Flekkefjord Sparebank for their generous gift, and to the local politicians whose decisions contributed to the stunning transformation of the space in front of Spira. Today, this area stands as a wonderful gathering place."
A Generous Benefactor - Flekkefjord Sparebank has a long history of supporting the community. This grand contribution follows their earlier gift—the pier development at Torsøyene, which was presented in celebration of the city's 150th anniversary. That project was warmly received by both residents and visitors alike.
The Story of a Trading City - Mayor Sigbjørnsen further reflected on Flekkefjord’s origins:
"This year, we celebrate 175 years, but what exactly are we commemorating? In the spring of 1842, King Carl Johan issued a royal decree elevating the small trading post of Flekkefjord to a full market town. The proposal passed through the Odelsting and Lagting before being formally sanctioned on August 8, 1842. From that moment, Flekkefjord was officially recognized as a city."
If you want to learn more about Flekkefjord’s rich history while enjoying a scenic view of the sea, "Red Carpet" at Spira is the perfect place for a pause and reflection.
Read More About "Red Carpet" and Flekkefjord’s History: www.1842.no/roedloeper
Art in nature
Head Hunt - Join the head hunt! A creative phenomenon has spread across Norway for years—reaching the countryside, small towns, cities, and even Instagram under the hashtag #finnhodet or #HiddenHeads. Flekkefjord-based artist Christian Sunde has placed small iron heads in secret locations both in Norway and abroad.
A Pandemic and the Search for Meaning - During the pandemic, the project exploded in popularity. The year 2020 forced us to stay apart, remain at home, and navigate a long and challenging period together. Many people began to explore their local surroundings with fresh eyes.
The iron heads became a symbol of unity and resilience during this extraordinary time.
Connecting Places and People - The goal of the iron heads is to encourage people to appreciate their surroundings, whether they are young or old, active hikers or casual explorers.
The heads can be found all across the Flekkefjord municipality—from the city center to the countryside, fjords, mountains, and islands. Some are placed in well-known locations, while others are hidden in places few have ever visited. Many are positioned along historic travel routes, emphasizing how these paths connect us.
Accessible to Everyone - All iron heads are placed in safe locations, ensuring that the hunt remains fun and risk-free. They vary in difficulty, but you don’t have to be an avid hiker to participate. In Flekkefjord’s city center alone, there are over 20 iron heads waiting to be discovered.
One Head for Every Child Born in 2020 - There are exactly 107 iron heads hidden across Flekkefjord municipality—one for every child born there during the pandemic year of 2020.
The choice of iron as a material is also symbolic—it represents strength and durability. Over time, the rust reminds us of the passing years, ensuring that we remember without forgetting.
#finnhodet or #HiddenHeads - The #finnhodet project officially launched on Instagram in 2017, but the head project itself has been around much longer.
"The first head I placed was a long, long time ago. Over the years, many more have been added, both in Norway and abroad. Only a fraction of them are documented in the #finnhodet project, but new ones keep appearing," says Sunde.
Want to join the hunt? Check out @christiansunde.kunst on Instagram for hints on where to search. If you find a head, tag it with #finnhodet or the English version, #HiddenHeads.
Happy hunting!
Learn More:
About the artist and the head hunt: www.christiansunde.no/finnhodet
About iron heads in Flekkefjord: www.1842.no/jernhoder