Door number 11

Most people recognize the iconic gate to Botsfengselet at Åkebergveien 11; every single episode of the legendary Olsen-Banden movies begins here, when bank robber Egon Olsen shuts the door behind him as a free man. As soon as he gets out, his friends Kjell and Benny come to meet him, and Egon’s familiar “I have a plan!” is the start of a new scheme.AD_VENT also has a plan: To free art! A very special artist has been invited to open the gate at Botsen on December 11th. With remarkable artistry, she uses her own vocal chords to push the boundaries of what visual expression is. The sound of her repeating voice breaks down inner walls. The labyrinths of one’s thoughts are unlocked and the audience is permitted to enter the artist’s inner cells. In just a few years, she has become world famous for her incredibly unique and captivating art.“Botsen” was built in the 1800s in Old Oslo. “The prisoners are strictly isolated so they can repent for their sins and not be exposed to the negative influences of other hardened prisoners”. The last prisoner was released through the heavy gate in 2017.The artist creating the number 11 is a free spirit who often uses nature as his basis for temporary outdoor sculptures.The names of the artists will be revealed upon the opening of the door.

AD_VENT – The art of waiting – is an untraditional advent calendar that offers unique artistic experiences in public spaces. The door's number is both the address and the date. Behind the doors are surprises in the form of visual art, music, literature, theatre, performance or dance.

We would like to thank Oslo Kommune Kulturetaten, KORO and Kulturrådet for their positive engagement and financial support that has made it possible for AD_VENT to give the people of Oslo unique art experiences during the “waiting time” – free of charge.