The art and climate park is now opening Wasteland in Skellefteå, together with Crystal Sauna, a spectacular sauna and art installation created by the internationally acclaimed artist duo Bigert & Bergström. The venture is expected to become a new destination for curious travellers, architecture enthusiasts, and people seeking extraordinary experiences.

Crystal Sauna is designed as a giant lithium crystal and clad in pink mirror steel that reflects the river, the forest and the surrounding landscape. Inside, the visitor is met by a warm wooden interior shaped like a cave. A contrast between futuristic design and ancient sauna ritual.

– For people to choose to travel to a place, it often requires something that feels unique and unexpected. Crystal Sauna is an extraordinary experience that strengthens Skellefteå's image as a brave and creative destination., says Maria Broman, CEO of Visit Skellefteå.

Behind Crystal Sauna are Mats Bigert and Lars Bergström, known for internationally acclaimed works such as Solar Egg in Kiruna and Tipping Point. Their art operates at the intersection of society, climate, and humanity's relationship with nature and technology.

Wasteland has emerged on the former industrial site Scharins in Ursviken. A place that for a long time was one of Sweden's most polluted industrial areas. After extensive remediation, the area has now been transformed into a new public space for art, experiences, and faith in the future.

International interest in destinations that combine nature, design, and meaningful experiences is strong, and Wasteland with Crystal Sauna is a very good example of how this interest is met with a place where pioneering architecture meets sustainable transition and Swedish sauna culture. This is the type of experience that strengthens Sweden's position as an innovative and attractive destination globally., states Visit Sweden's Head of Communications, Jim Hofverberg

The inauguration will take place through a public event where visitors will have the opportunity to experience the location up close and see the installations in the area. In addition to Crystal Sauna, which is expected to become a new landmark, there are several other exhibitions and a wooden observation tower built by Norwegian architecture students.