Stavanger

Street art, mini sculptures, and an unexpected Norwegian Independence Day celebration in this coastal city.

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About this series

My time in Stavanger became an exploration of the city's vibrant street art scene - from elaborate graffiti murals to charming mini sculptures tucked into unexpected corners. The city revealed itself as a canvas for creative expression, where artists transform urban spaces into galleries accessible to everyone. What started as a focus on street art took an unexpected turn when I accidentally arrived during Norwegian Independence Day (Syttende Mai). Suddenly, the streets filled with traditional costumes, marching bands, and celebrations that created a colorful contrast to the more permanent artistic expressions found on walls and in public spaces. This serendipitous timing captured two different but equally vibrant aspects of Stavanger's cultural life: the ongoing creative dialogue between artists and the urban environment, and the annual celebration of national identity that brings the entire community together in a burst of color and tradition. The series documents both the everyday artistic spirit of the city and the special energy of Norwegian Independence Day.

Inspiration

The discovery that Stavanger is not just an oil city but a place where street art thrives, plus the happy accident of witnessing Norway's most colorful national celebration.

Technical Notes

Street photography approach focused on documenting both permanent street art installations and the temporary spectacle of Independence Day festivities. Captured the interplay between artistic expression and cultural celebration.

Stavanger - Photography by Piotr Zalewa