Galleri Espolin (Espolin Gallery), Kabelvåg
A gallery at Storvågan dedicated to Kaare Espolin Johnson (1907–1994), known for black-and-white images of northern Norwegian coastal life. Visit Lofoten says more than 200 works are shown, plus guest exhibitions. Part of Museum Nord's SKREI centre.
Why do it
His work on fishermen, storms and the sea connects directly to Lofoten's history; he had very impaired sight and painted many images from memory in a limited palette (Visit Lofoten).
Where
Storvågan by Kabelvåg, about 10 minutes' drive from Svolvær (Visit Lofoten). Building designed by Gisle Jakhelln, drawing on Icelandic building traditions.
Best time
Visit Lofoten listing hours: February Tuesday–Friday 11–15; March–April Tuesday–Friday and Sunday 11–15; May daily 11–15; June–August daily 10–18; September daily 11–15; October Tuesday–Friday and Sunday 11–15; 1 November–13 December Tuesday–Friday 11–15.
How long it takes
The gallery shows a film in which Espolin Johnson talks about his work (Visit Lofoten); length not stated.
Operators
- Galleri Espolin (Museum Nord): Email galleri-espolin@museumnord.no; gift shop with local crafts; combination ticket with SKREI attractions.
Practical information
- Visit Lofoten says 39 of his works are in Norway's National Museum.
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Itineraries that include it
Questions
- Who was Kaare Espolin Johnson?
- A Norwegian artist and illustrator (1907–1994) known for black-and-white depictions of northern Norwegian fishing life, made with a layering and scraping technique.
- Where is the Espolin Gallery?
- At Storvågan by Kabelvåg, next to the Lofoten Museum and Lofoten Aquarium.
Sources
- Museums and attractions at SKREIVisit Lofoten (Destination Lofoten). Official tourism, checked 16 September 2026
- The Espolin Gallery – The story of Kaare Espolin JohnsonVisit Lofoten (Destination Lofoten). Official tourism, checked 16 September 2026
- The Espolin Gallery (listing)Visit Lofoten (Destination Lofoten). Official tourism, checked 16 September 2026
Details last verified 16 September 2026.