The Time of the Forest - a new exhibition at the Nivaagaard Collection

Denmark’s future as a forest nation

Centuries of deforestation have distanced people from nature. Now, Denmark is embracing the forest once again with ambitious goals for rewilding and expanding forest areas. But what does this shift demand from society? And how can art help shape our ideas and dreams of the forests of tomorrow?

From Romantic landscapes to contemporary perspectives

The exhibition links classic Danish landscape painting and folklore with the work of contemporary artists who reflect – and actively engage with – the forest in different ways. Visitors can experience works by:

• Ahmad Siyar Qasimi

• Camilla Berner

• Emmarosa Liebgen

• James Aldridge

• Jesper Just

• Pia Rönicke

• Rasmus Myrup

• Rune Bosse

Some artists aim to restore the human connection to nature, while others are directly involved in creating new forest areas through artistic practice.

The forest as a cultural and political space

For centuries, the forest has held a special place in culture – as a space of mystery, transformation and deep symbolism. Once seen as the edge of civilisation, it was home to mythical creatures and wild imaginings.

In the 19th century, the forest was romanticised in painting and poetry as a place of national identity and personal reflection. Today, it remains a site of debate – between longing for wilderness and the realities of climate, conservation, and co-existence with untamed nature.

A cross-disciplinary exhibition for all ages

Alongside visual art and historical artefacts, The Time of the Forest offers a range of cross-disciplinary experiences and activities, including:

• Talks and guided walks

• Special programming for schools

• A new activity book based on the exhibition and local forests

The exhibition invites visitors of all ages to explore the meaning of the forest – in the past, the present and the future.