Midgard Exhibition Concept and Drawings
Visual Concept for Midgård: Transformation as a Philosophical Framing of the Viking Age In the exhibition, transformation is both a physical process and a metaphor for the continuous evolution of ideas and societies. It serves as the central visual concept for exploring how the Viking Age reshaped the Nordic region and influenced the wider world, encompassing technological developments, cultural shifts, and social dynamics.
The exhibition highlights connections between past and present, showing how earlier generations’ choices and innovations continue to shape contemporary life. Its philosophical core recognises that history is dynamic; presenting it as a series of transformations invites visitors to reflect on both individual and collective change.
The exhibition is organised into eight thematic areas: Introduction/Ragnarök, Vendel Period, The Culture House, The Farm, The School, The Harbour, The Temple, and The Library, each offering a different perspective on Viking Age life and legacy.
The exhibition script consists of three components: the conceptual content, which guides priorities; the narrative content, including audience perspectives, thematic choices and storytelling methods; and the material content, which gives form to the narrative through sound, objects, materials and light. These elements interact continuously, requiring ongoing adjustments until the conceptual aims were fully realised.
The script for Midgård was developed by exhibition producer Mathias Strömer in collaboration with Gotlands Museum’s subject-matter experts, and the exhibition concept was further developed by architects Jenny Söderströmand Ella Eklund, together with graphic designers Knak.
