Blås & Knåda: A Half-Century of Collective Craft and Creative Power
Nestled on Hornsgatan in Stockholm, Galleri Blås & Knåda, a cooperative for ceramics and glass, proudly displays "Kraft" (Power) across its windows, celebrating 50 years of artistic creation. This word, signifying both creative force and a nod to the English "craft," encapsulates the essence of this institution, a longstanding pillar in the realm of modern Swedish arts and crafts. The gallery currently hosts a traveling exhibition, meticulously curated by Rut-Malin Barklund, which offers a captivating glimpse into the diverse world of contemporary craft, featuring works created as recently as 2025. Displayed on blue steel shelving, amidst packing crates, the exhibition evokes a sense of dynamic movement, showcasing the breadth and depth of Blås & Knåda’s artistic output.
The exhibition skillfully balances utilitarian objects with pieces of pure artistic expression. From subtle, whispered forms to bold, declarative statements, the collection spans a wide spectrum of creative endeavors. Low-key bowls sit alongside daring experimental pieces, selter glasses mingle with candleholders and lamps, and a multitude of mugs add a touch of everyday familiarity. This eclectic mix demonstrates the cooperative’s embrace of diverse artistic visions, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their talents. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the industrial aesthetic of the display, creates a visually stimulating experience, drawing visitors into the world of contemporary craft.
The exhibition not only celebrates the cooperative’s anniversary but also underscores the enduring relevance of handcrafted objects in a increasingly digital world. Certain pieces transcend mere functionality and become unique decorative elements, such as Nina Westman’s glass boxing gloves, Linn Sjöstedt’s playful "ceramic bondage" lamps, and Andreas Almebäck’s glass sculptures masquerading as candleholders. These objects blur the lines between art and design, inviting viewers to reconsider the role of craft in their everyday lives. The tactile nature of these works is emphasized by Kerstin Wickman in the accompanying jubilee book, "50 Years of Collective Power," who argues that we must touch and hold these objects to fully appreciate their essence.
The jubilee book itself is a vibrant tapestry of voices and memories, weaving together reflective essays by Love Jönsson and Anna Mlasowsky with evocative photographs by Märta Thisner and others, unearthed from the cooperative’s archives. The book offers a glimpse into the rich history of Blås & Knåda, tracing its evolution from a small shop in Gamla Stan to its current prominent location on Hornsgatan. While it celebrates the contributions of long-standing members, it unfortunately omits a deeper exploration of the contributions of members who have since departed, leaving some of the cooperative’s history unexplored.
Established in June 1975 in a small shop on Köpmantorget in Gamla Stan, Blås & Knåda emerged from a desire for a collective selling point and a meeting place for creative exchange. Driven by a spirit of revolution and innovation, the founders, including glass artist Ulla Forsell, sought to present the world with a fresh perspective on craft. The cooperative relocated to its current location on Hornsgatan in 1982, adding a gallery space to further showcase its members’ work. Forsell, still an active member, is set to have a retrospective exhibition at the gallery in March, marking another milestone in the cooperative’s history.
Today, Blås & Knåda boasts over 30 members and five guest artists, demonstrating its enduring vitality and adaptability. Far from a stagnant institution, the cooperative embraces a dynamic interplay between generations. Younger members, drawn to the cooperative’s ethos of collaboration and shared purpose, inject fresh energy and ideas. Meanwhile, older members continue to create, mentor, and gracefully transition into a more historical role, ensuring the continuity and evolution of the cooperative’s artistic legacy. This constant renewal ensures that Blås & Knåda remains a vibrant and relevant force in the world of Swedish contemporary craft, poised to inspire and innovate for years to come. The exhibition and accompanying book serve as a testament to the power of collective creativity and the enduring appeal of handcrafted objects, inviting viewers to engage with the rich history and exciting future of this unique institution.
