Investment in a new art gallery in central Jönköping

Jönköping University (JU) and Jönköping Municipality are exploring the possibility of opening an art gallery on the university's campus in central Jönköping. This initiative would make contemporary art more accessible and create a space for exhibitions, talks, and cultural activities for the public, students, and staff alike.

The ambition behind the new art gallery on campus would be to offer art exhibitions and cultural programmes that strengthen the connections between JU, Jönköping’s cultural sector, and the surrounding community. It has not yet been decided where on campus the gallery would be located, but the idea is that the space could also be used for things like concerts and literary events.

"Jönköping Municipality views this initiative very positively as a way to continue developing the city's art and cultural life. Together with Jönköping University, there is now an opportunity to create another open meeting place offering new perspectives on art and culture," says Mona Forsberg (S), Chair of the Municipal Executive Board.

Art that creates new perspectives

The art gallery is intended to be part of Jönköping University's vision, People First, which puts students, staff, and people in the surrounding community at the centre. The goal is to create an environment that fosters curiosity, reflection, and the exchange of different perspectives. The idea is that art should contribute by raising questions, challenging established assumptions, and sparking conversation between people with different experiences.

This fall, the initiative JU Reads was also launched in collaboration with The Hamrin Foundation and Bonnier Family Foundation. The project gives students the opportunity to take part in book clubs, author talks, and other activities connected to literary reading.

"A university shouldn't just prepare people for their first job. We should give people the tools to think independently, encounter the unexpected, and understand other perspectives. Art and literature have a unique ability to do just that. That's why an art gallery and a greater investment in reading are a natural part of our vision, People First," says JU President Måns Svensson.

Lovisa Hamrin, owner of the Herenco Group and Chair of The Hamrin Foundation, will be actively involved in the work of creating an art gallery.

"I'm very pleased about this investment in an art gallery in Jönköping. This is a project I personally want to be involved in, because it will create added value for Jönköping as a cultural city," says Lovisa Hamrin.