HDK–Valand
Cover image missing

HDK–Valand—Academy of Art and Design, at the University of Gothenburg, is one of the Nordic region’s leading environments for artistic education and practice–based artistic research. Offered programmes include: design, film, photography, fine art, craft, literary composition—and a teacher education in visual arts and sloyd. It's an open and international environment where exploration, collaboration and artistic development are central.

Human beings collect. They add, arrange and expand. Something is added to something and, value and meaning change. The relational functions as the subtext of the objects. We expand ourselves in relation to—and in synergy with the collection and show the outside world a curated image of a being. Implicit in collecting is a striving for perfection, but also a longing to tell a story of ourselves. Thus, collecting serves both as a driving force for creating and developing stories but also as a way of being seen and inventing ourselves. In this exhibition, design students from HDK–Valand at the University of Gothenburg present works, objects, and projects developed from an exploration of the theme of collecting.

Related Exhibitions
Reevein Studios is a Danish high–end design company dedicated to crafting collectible floral and botanical objects that last a lifetime. Originating as a brand specialising in sculptures and installations for exhibitions, inspired by the profound link between humans and nature, Reevein Studios has today evolved into a design brand, creating exquisite collectible handcrafted faux flowers and surrealistic botanical design objects. Reevein Studios envisions botanical design as a deliberate choice, not attempting to mimic nature but rather standing as a unique artistic expression. Reevein Studios has gained international attention from leading design media for their unique approach to handcrafted design and the use of new materials.
Reevein Studios.
February 16, 2024
Accessories
Part of 2024
Part of 2025
Part of 2026
ToneArt is a Danish design house operating as PH Pianos, PH Furniture and Copenhagen Design House. Under official rights, the company brings Poul Henningsen’s piano, furniture and mirror designs into the present. The collection connects Danish design heritage with contemporary craftsmanship and material awareness. Alongside the PH universe, Copenhagen Design House presents works by other Scandinavian and Baltic designers. At the intersection of art, music and interiors, ToneArt presents a world of functional artworks.
PH Pianos & Furniture
January 20, 2025
Part of 2025
Furniture
Part of 2026
ester & erik is a family-owned company that has been making high-quality candles since 1987. Since then, the logo with the heart in the middle has been ester & erik’s trademark – an icon reflecting the couple’s fondness for each other, and in particular for candles, craftsmanship and the quality behind their vision. A vision of creating warmth, joy and life through the candles which they have invented, produced and developed themselves for two generations.
ester & erik
March 23, 2026
Part of 2026
Jan Kath Design has revolutionised the world of rugs. For nearly 30 years, the brand has been shaping the international design scene with its work. While the creative language spans a broad spectrum, production remains deliberately rooted in tradition. Each carpet is crafted using centuries–old hand–knotting techniques in selected workshops in Nepal and India, certified for sustainability by the Swiss label STEP. Knot by knot, skilled artisans translate the designs into textile art. Only premium natural materials are used, including hand–combed Tibetan highland wool, fine Chinese silk, and Nepalese nettle. This balanced material composition gives the rugs a distinctive tactile quality and a deep, layered presence beyond the surface.
Jan Kath Design
December 19, 2025
Rug & Floor
Part of 2026
Other Exhibitions
Selected BySecher was launched in 2020 with the aim of reintroducing carefully handpicked furniture by lesser–known Danish designers and furniture architects. The collection presents timeless lighting and furniture crafted with exceptional workmanship, high quality and a strong attention to detail. Each Selected BySecher piece is designed as a refined addition to modern interiors. Selected BySecher is part of Gallery Secher Fine Art & Design, which has specialised in fine art, design and furniture classics since 2002. Everything at Secher in Copenhagen reflects a deep passion for, and knowledge of, classic Danish design and craftsmanship.
Selected BySecher
February 10, 2023
Powered by Passion, Le Klint has been crafting timeless lighting since 1943, blending unique aesthetics with functionality. All lamps made from sustainable materials, representing the danish design tradition with high quality standards. The company aspire to lead as a Small Luxury brand in global design lighting, focusing on both private and contract markets. The strategy involves strengthening domestic presence and expanding further into key markets, and continuously innovate with new designs. Le Klint are fully committed to environmental and social responsibilities to ensure a brighter future for all. Le Klint lamps are produced at their own factory in Odense, Denmark.
LE KLINT
December 23, 2021
Stilling® is a renowned Danish design company specialising in bespoke curtain track systems for projects of all sizes, empowering curtain specialists, architects, and interior designers. With a wide range of colours, finishes, and shapes, Stilling drapery hardware enables the creation of dynamic architectural spaces—whether for art installations, flexible office divisions, hospitality projects, or private homes. Founded in 1949, the company upholds a strong tradition of craftsmanship, delivering high–quality, design–driven solutions. A pioneer in sustainability, Stilling was the first in its industry to achieve a B Corp certification, and to design curtain tracks made from at least 75% recycled aluminium under their own SUSTAIN™ label.
Stilling
March 31, 2023
Royal Copenhagen was founded in 1775 under patronage of the Danish monarchy. For more than two centuries, the company has manufactured porcelain with the deepest respect for the tradition of fine craftsmanship. Royal Copenhagen is world-renowned for its iconic hand-painted porcelain and bold interpretation of the porcelain factory’s rich design legacy.
Royal Copenhagen
December 14, 2022
×
HDK–Valand
Check back soon!