Nationalmuseum’s summer exhibition 2021 at Gripsholm Castle in Mariefred presented 23 Swedish migrants from the mid 17th century up until contemporary times. Something that they all have in common is that they have all played a crucial role in Swedish history and have actively contributed to the development of our society.
The exhibition featured people with diverse life destinies and a great deal of social width and cultural diversity. These migrants reflect Swedish history from the era of great power until our democratic society of the 20th century. The time span fits three Swedish queens as well as a royal attendant. The majority of those featured are cultural personalities – opera singers, song writers and artists. A few names are surprising, as they are now regarded a natural part of Sweden.
The exhibition ended with a more serious note, something that reflects the horrors of the 20th century – two powerful portraits of holocaust survivors.
The Swedish National Portrait Gallery
The Swedish National Portrait Gallery at Gripsholm Castle in Mariefred is the world’s oldest national portrait gallery. It was founded in 1822 and is managed by Nationalmuseum. The summer exhibitions, produced each year by Nationalmuseum for Gripsholm Castle, are wholly or partly based on this collection.