A Children’s Department in a Norwegian Hospital has seen more than 40 colourful characters painted onto its walls. From artist Frode Skaren, the figures have been painted on the hospital rooms and corridors of Akershus Hospital on the outskirts of Oslo.
Caring for kids from age 0 to 18, Akershus Hospital Childrens Department supports children undergoing a range of treatments. For many the Covid pandemic has resulted in them not being able to be visited by family or friends. The murals from Frode Skaren will add a bit of colour and fun to the wards. Their shape and colour being specifically designed to capture the imagination.
Positive Energy
Head of Department Else Andresen said that art has an important role to play in such an environment. “Pictures, colours and figures capture children’s attention and can make the environment a little less scary” she said. “They can be distracted a little from pain and fear. It also makes it easier to start communication with them when we look at the pictures together.
The characters created by Frode Skaren radiate a positive energy. Filled with good humour they care for each other through working together. “His work definitely helps create a good atmosphere” said Else. “Something that will be enjoyed for many years to come”.
The project was curated by Street Art Oslo and made possible thanks to support from two local schools – Algarheim and Mailand. They were joined by Akershus Children’s Cancer Association and Lillestrøm bank in terms of making it happen. Following positive feedback, Street Art Oslo and Akershus Hospital are already in discussion about expanding the project in 2021. All photos used in this article are courtesy of Alex Asensi.
About Frode Skaren
Frode Skaren (aka Uglylogo) studied Visual Communication at Oslo National Academy of the Arts. After completing a BA he moved back to his home town of Kvinesdal to set up his studio in an old barn, complete with his very own screen printing table. Frode often works under the alias Uglylogo and is best known for his charming characters and playful motifs. His work has been featured in international magazines such as Creative Review, Monocle, Computer Arts, Business Week and Little White Lies.
Akerhus Hospital Mural Gallery
About Street Art Oslo
Street Art Oslo is an online platform and IRL network founded by James Finucane. It consists of artists, curators, producers and scholars. All dedicated to improving conditions for the production and dissemination of Street Art in the Oslo region.
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