Interview with Marie Peyreexpatriate in Norway and press relations manager for Bodø 2024. An authentic and realistic account of the European event in 2024!
Tell us about your experience as a Frenchwoman in Bodo.
I'm originally from Provence, but I moved to London in the UK at an early age, where I lived for 15 years, and then to Norway, where I've been since 2008. Long established in the south of the country in Fredrikstad, I moved to Bodø at the end of 2020 to join the European Capital of Culture project, first as Communications and Marketing Director, and now as Communications and International Relations Officer. It's a role that suits me like a glove: I've worked for years as a journalist and travel writer, but I've always also covered culture, for which I have a great passion. So being able to mix the two, traveling, meeting people from all over Europe, promoting Bodø2024 but also trying to develop the region as a long-term cultural destination, is an interesting challenge.
How will Bodø2024 differ from other European Capitals of Culture?
Bodø2024 will be the very first European Capital of Culture to be located north of the Arctic Circle: that's very special! In terms of the breathtaking landscapes we find here, and the very particular climate, which have strongly influenced the local culture. But there's a fascinating history too, with fish playing a central role, of course, but also some very relevant current geopolitical issues, when you think of climate change for example. And Bodø and the Nordland region are located in Sapmi (Lapland), and have a rich Sami culture, which we are also highlighting in the program.
Bodo and art, explain:
Art may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Bodø, and Nordland (or even Norway). And yet. The region has been attracting and inspiring artists for centuries (and yes, it's not all that surprising, with its end-of-the-world landscapes and fabulous light, winter and summer, from the northern lights to the midnight sun). Did you also know that it was a painter from Bodø who, at the time, introduced Edvard Munch (yes, the artist behind The Scream) to the world? Now forgotten, the painter Adelsteen Normann, known and appreciated at the time for his grandiose fjord landscapes, played an essential role in Norwegian art history. The world's largest collection of his work can still be found in Bodø. More recently, street art and Sami art (from the local indigenous population) are delighting visitors. Several exhibitions are planned for art lovers next year for Bodø2024. Among my favorites, don't miss KLAB in Kjerringøy, just an hour's drive north of Bodø - Europe's only land art biennial, in a wonderful setting.
PS. The European Capital of Culture is obviously much more than just art. We're planning over 1,000 events offering something for everyone, from rap and classical music to theater, literature, dance, folk events and lots more. Full program on our website, bodo2024.no, from November 3. See you in Bodø in 2024!
Marie Peyre
