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Museums #1 in Greve Strand

ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art

4.3 · 4,880 reviews
Serene, avant-garde, and spacious.
ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art, Skovvej 100, 2635 Ishøj, Denmark
Interesting facts
1

The museum building is intentionally shaped to resemble a massive ship that has run aground on the beach.

2

The architecture won the competition for the museum design when the architect was only 25 years old.

3

ARKEN holds one of Scandinavia's most significant collections of works by Damien Hirst.

4

The museum is surrounded by an artificial landscape designed to bridge the gap between the building and the ocean.

5

It contains a 150-meter long 'Art Axis' that acts as the primary thoroughfare through the exhibition spaces.

Overview

ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art is located on the coast south of Copenhagen, designed by architect Søren Robert Lund to resemble a stranded ship. The building features an expansive atrium and is situated within a landscape of artificial dunes and water. Its permanent collection houses significant works by Damien Hirst and Olafur Eliasson. The museum maintains a strong focus on Nordic art, gender identity, and socio-political themes through rotating international exhibitions. The architecture utilizes industrial materials like zinc and glass, contrasting with the natural coastal environment. It stands as a prominent cultural institution in the Køge Bay area.

Photo spot

The dramatic, soaring angles of the 'Art Axis' atrium and the exterior profile against the coastline.

Insider tips

Walk the coastal path behind the museum for views of the Køge Bay shoreline.

Check the museum's online calendar for rotating exhibitions, as they change frequently throughout the year.

Allocate time for the museum cafe, which offers views directly overlooking the surrounding lagoon.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit on a Monday when the museum is typically closed for general operations.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet volume in exhibition galleries; do not touch the artwork unless explicitly permitted.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school group crowds and weekend visitors.
Address
ARKEN Museum of Contemporary Art, Skovvej 100, 2635 Ishøj, Denmark
Website
55.606, 12.388
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsDamien Hirst collection, Olafur Eliasson installations, and Nordic contemporary works
Architectural styleDeconstructivist-inspired nautical design

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid school group crowds and weekend visitors..

The dramatic, soaring angles of the 'Art Axis' atrium and the exterior profile against the coastline.

Close by you'll find Oscar Under The Bridge, The 6 Forgotten Giants, Vallensbæk Havn. Havnekontor, Tivoli Gardens.