Sculptures in Sandefjord

Sandefjord has a rich collection of sculptures in its parks, along the waterfront and in public spaces. Explore works by Knut Steen, Nina Sundbye, Nils Aas and Arnold Haukeland on a walk through the town centre. From the Whaling Monument by the harbour to sculptures in Badeparken and outside Hjertnes Cultural Centre, several artworks are within easy reach on foot.

Start your sculpture walk at the Whaling Monument
Near the harbour, you will find the Whaling Monument, one of Sandefjord's best-known landmarks. Created by Knut Steen, the dramatic sculpture depicts whalers rowing an open boat, with a harpoon ready and water splashing around them. The monument is shaped like a compass rose and slowly rotates on its own axis. It combines an impressive work of art with an important chapter of Sandefjord's maritime history.

Meet Poseidon in Badeparken
Continue to Badeparken, the green park between the town centre and the waterfront.
At the heart of the park stands Poseidon, a bronze sculpture group by Nina Sundbye. It depicts the Greek god of the sea accompanied by two sea nymphs and was unveiled in 1996. You will also find Knut Steen's Fortuna, inspired by the Roman goddess of fortune and fate. The park's paths, trees and green spaces offer a pleasant setting for exploring the artworks at your own pace.

Art outside Hjertnes Cultural Centre
Several notable works can be found around Hjertnes Cultural Centre. Arnold Haukeland's Havdronningen (The Sea Queen) stands outside the building, while Nils Aas created Fuge (Fugue), an artwork on the wall facing Badeparken. Here, sculpture and architecture come together as part of Sandefjord's public spaces.

Discover Knut Steen's sculptures at Midtåsen
For a more extensive art experience, visit Midtåsen Sculpture Park, a separate destination outside the town centre. The collection features 16 works by Knut Steen. Twelve marble sculptures are displayed inside the pavilion, while four bronze sculptures stand outdoors in the surrounding landscape. The sculpture pavilion is located on the former estate of shipowner Anders Jahre. The combination of art, architecture, parkland and views over Sandefjord makes Midtåsen a memorable destination.

Discover art throughout Sandefjord
Sandefjord's sculptures have also been documented in Verd å se (Worth Seeing), a book by Gro Laheld Lundh exploring the town's public artworks and their creators. You do not need a fixed route to enjoy the collection. Start by the harbour, continue through Badeparken and explore the area around Hjertnes Cultural Centre. Along the way, you will discover both prominent monuments and smaller artworks that are easy to miss.
For more inspiration, explore Architecture and Sculpture in Sandefjord.

Plan your visit
The sculptures are located across Sandefjord, with several works clustered around the harbour, Badeparken and Hjertnes Cultural Centre. The artworks in outdoor public spaces can be viewed without tickets or fixed opening hours. You can make your sculpture walk as short or as long as you like.

Midtåsen Sculpture Park is a separate excursion, located at Midtåsveien 2A. Admission is free, but check the current pavilion opening hours before visiting. Paths, surfaces and accessibility vary between locations. Visitors requiring step-free access should check their chosen route in advance.