Kunstnarhuset Messen

I have been to Messen a number of times since its inception and look forward to returning in July. I have been gratified by the support and friendship of the board, director and caretakers who look after this special residency in a Norwegian village. I have produced work there which remains very important for me. Messen is my other home. Ross Donlon

This is a hidden gem, fabulous and cozy home for adventurous artists. I recommend Messen to all good artists out there wanting to spend some time working and creating near the magnificent Hardanger fjords, every window at the house shows a gorgeous view. Mountain hiking is a must, the village is small and charming and you will find the nicest people living there. I spend 30 days there and I left Alvik longing for more. I had the time of my life there.

Messen is a very dear and important place to me.One can fully concentrate on their artistic practice and new ideas, flowing in. The house has space both for individual, for solitude and deep thinking, and at the same time, a room for encounters with the others, exchange, meaningful and sometimes silly/funny conversations, warmth and laughter. And the nature! The fjord, the mountains, the fog, the sheep... Beyond beautiful! The studios and rooms are nice, there is also a printing studio with awesome table + the attic, that is definitely a part of some fairy-tale reality (also a sound-proof room in the basement, which I think is pretty cool). All in all, the atmosphere is supportive and encouraging. I always recommend this residency to my friends and people, appreciating nature&silence. If you don't appreciate them (yet), still worth giving a try and see, what this experience might bring - you might get surprised. I've been here twice and both times were very transformative to me and brought quite some unexpected twists, which I'm endlessly grateful for!

Very caringly and thoughtfully run residency program, in one of the most unusual and inspiring natural environments I've experienced anywhere.

When I arrived I noticed the first 1 star review on here and wondered why, I wish that person had given some details. Now I know why. Do not apply to this residency. This is a completely unprofessional place, run by very strange people. Go somewhere else. It is not just a bad environment for working it is an insafe place to stay. If you are thinking of applying and would like further information about my experience here please feel free to contact me I am happy to give details.

To meet artists from all over the world is great

Ganske gøy

My stay at KH Messen was one of the best experiences I ever had. The hosts are very kind and nice people, and also great artists. The landscape is magnificent and the house is very pleasant. You definitely should apply to this residence

This place is incredible! I highly recommend it!

I absolutely loved my time at Messen. Simone and Hans (the hosts) are wonderful -- they are accessible, friendly, and answer any questions you might have. The location is breathtaking, the studio spaces gorgeous, the village Ålvik is charming, and the commitment to supporting all kinds of artists from all around the world is stellar. I highly recommend applying to Kunstnerhuset Messen. It was a life changing experience for me, and I feel hugely grateful for the time I got to spend there.