The Spirit of Emelia Exhibition
The Spirit of Emelia exhibition is a multimedia project inspired by the building of the historical Galeas Emelia at the Mariehamn Sjökvarteret in Åland. It will encompass a documentary film, book and exhibition featuring paintings and around 100 portraits of the remarkable men and women involved in the shipbuilding process and construction.
Spirit of Emelia will be premiered at the Åland Konstmuseum in 2026, with hopes to tour internationally, drawing attention to this extraordinary boat building community venture.
The ship is being built with dedication and passion by skilful shipbuilders and volunteers and is being entirely funded by private and public financial support, as well as generous contributions of materials, expertise and promotions.
The Spirit of Emelia exhibition, celebrates this incredible community involvement, expressing the unity, friendships and connections that are formed and developed over the years. It explores what it means and how it feels to collaborate and belong to the community that is creating this historic vessel.
Celebrating You!
The exhibition is only being made possible with your interest and grateful participation.
Your involvement in this historic event may include an interview with audio and/or video, photographs and a few sittings to create sketches and a painted portrait.
We estimate it will require a minimum of 3-4 hours over a few weeks as follows:
Initial meeting - 30 minutes
Portrait sittings - 3 x 1 hours
As the project develops, there may also be other opportunities for further involvement.
The exhibition, documentary film and book are being produced initially for Åland Konstmuseum but with such historical significance, we anticipate the project will have the opportunity to travel further afield. Your participation will be invaluable in conveying the generous spirit of the Åland community and highlighting the cultural importance to a worldwide audience.
We would be grateful if you would please complete the following short form confirming your involvement. If you are nominating someone else from your family or organisation, please indicate. Once received we will be in touch with further details and if required, to schedule a portrait sitting or interview time.
If you have any questions at all, please email me here at hello@danellebergstrom.com
I am most grateful for your interest in this project - your time and collaboration to the Spirit of Emelia are much appreciated. I so look forward to working with you!
Danelle Bergstrom