INTRO AiR BKN RESPONSE
In the northern archipelago of Stockholm one finds the island Björkö, where artists and the local community initiated BKN studio spaces in 2020. Originally set out as a project to convert the former school into studios, it soon came to include a residence program, artist presentations, art education, screenings and exhibitions. It is a space dedicated to the experimentation, research, and dissemination of artistic practices in which Swedish and international artists come together.
You reach BKN by public transportation (buss) from Stockholm via Norrtälje. The two former school buildings are right at the bus stop so its really easy. The space is endorsed by the locals and run by the non profit organization Björkö Konstnod. BKN is in two buildings and total area of 600 sqm. The setting is in a rural environment.
We opened up for AiR BKN RESPONSE in February 2022. Since then we have had artists staying with us. As of 2023 we fold 1-2 of our studios as a response to artists in need from through out the world. We work closely with Artists at Risk and SWAN.
We alter between artists from the three countries, studios are appointed via AR/SWAN.
We have had performers/painters/photographers with us. For lens based artist we have two darkrooms. All artists are welcome to borrow other digital equipment we have after assessing project with curator. We expect Response artist to take part in events organized by BKN and other visiting artists. We do open studios, portfolio reviews, talks/presentations etc. On weekly basis we do joint dinners sometimes with invited guests. We do joint visits to institutions and artist run spaces in Norrtälje and Stockholm.
Each artists is expected to help maintain the venue and premises in good condition. We provide ed linnen and towels. We have a washing machine in the main building. Each artist is responsible for their own food and material.
AiR BKN artists 2020-2022: Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Spain, Ireland, France, UK, USA, Taiwan, Belgium, Russia and Ukraine..
