Dalslands konstmuseum

About the museum

Dalslands konstmuseum (Dalsland Art Museum) lies on a rise in the old works environment in Upperud, by the lake Spången, which is part of the Dalsland Canal. The long red museum building was designed by the architect Kjell Bandgren, and the museum opened in 1995. The initiator was the antiques dealer Sten Torstensson, who for many years had collected art, silver, objects and arts and crafts from Dalsland.

Torstensson's collection formed the basis of the museum and is shown as a permanent exhibition on the lower floor. It reflects a selection of the finest in Dalsland's art and craft history. In addition to the collection, the museum shows a changing programme of contemporary art from March to November, often linked to nature and the landscape.

The museum includes a park with sculptures, walking paths, a wild area, an outdoor stage and a guest jetty with bathing by the lake. Next door is Café Bonaparte, in the former works hotel (brukshotellet) from around 1830. The activities are run by a foundation with support from the Culture Committee of Västra Götaland Regional Council and Melleruds Municipality, and a friends' association supports the museum. The museum also has a studio house that can be rented.

Highlights

• Sten Torstensson's collection of Dalsland art and arts and crafts
• Contemporary art meeting nature in changing exhibitions
• Sculpture park by Lake Spången with a guest jetty and bathing
• Café Bonaparte in the former works hotel, with a view of the Dalsland Canal
• Studio house that can be rented

Permanent exhibition

• Sten Torstenssons samling – Art, silver and arts and crafts from Dalsland, collected by the museum's founder and shown permanently on the lower floor.

Founded

1995

Operated by

Stiftelsen Dalslands konstmuseum

Director

Maria Carlgren

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Free admission thanks to extra funding from the Culture Committee of Västra Götaland Regional Council.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: not available
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

It is possible to drive right up to the entrance, which has automatic doors. There is a lift between the floors and to the café, and there are no thresholds between the exhibition rooms. A large accessible toilet on the lower floor by the lift. There is no induction loop, guide strip or tactile signage, and companions may be needed. Guide dogs are welcome; other pets may not come in.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

It is possible to drive right up to the museum's entrance to drop off and pick up passengers.

Amenities & dining

• Café
• Museum shop
• Coat check

Café Bonaparte is in an adjoining building, the former works hotel, with room for about 50 guests indoors and about 40 outside, a glass veranda and outdoor seating facing Lake Spången. The museum shop sells art books, cultural magazines, arts and crafts, games and art cards. Backpacks can be left at reception.

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties

The studio house on the museum grounds, about 100 metres from the bathing jetty, can be rented. The park's outdoor stage can be used for photography and performances. Larger groups can book guided tours and meals.

Plan your visit