Copenhagen-based design studio Kvorning Design and Norwegian advertising agency Vindfang have won a
competition, organised by Museums in Sør Trøndelag (MiST), to develop a new exhibition on Norway’s aquaculture industry for Norway's Coastal Museum.

The winning concept, called ‘The Pioneers’, was picked by a judging panel made up of staff members from museums across MiST’s 24 sites, and was selected due to its “international experience combined with a local presence."

Inspired by stories of salmon farmers, the exhibition tells the story of Norway’s fish-farming industry from 1970 to the present day through three experiences that explore the local and national histories, as well as that of the industry itself.

Local history is shown through an animation of the local area, including the salmon-farming island of Hitra. National history is shown through a display with interactive screens, wall panels, photos, text, objects and light and sound. The industry’s story is told through a 360-degree show with moving images and natural sound in an octagonal theatre.

"Kvorning and Vindfang’s exhibition concept is both self-meditating and well suited to larger groups with a guide," said Magnar Ansnes, head of department at the Coastal Museum.

"The overall look of the concept worked well. The re-purposing of existing installations by the team frees up resources and gives us more room for manoeuvre. Finally, the team’s excellent control of the light is a feature to which the museum attributes great importance.”