Magasin 3

Magasin 3 is probably the most underrated attraction in Stockholm. While more famous Moderna Museet usually follows what MoMA in New York has exhibited, this contemporary art museum features an exhibition of its own collection of Swedish and foreign works, many of which were produced especially for Magasin 3 and thus cannot be seen anywhere else.

Take Bus No.1 to its last stop Frihamnen. Within a minute of walk from the bus stop, you'll be greeted by a sculpture by Truls Melin.

The patina-coloured tubes connect two human figures in a very convoluted way. When you learn that the title of the work is "Mental Togetherness," it starts making sense. And it also acts as a great introduction to your forthcoming mental togetherness with contemporary artists.

Magasin 3 is housed in a former warehouse. Its approach is very unusual for a museum. Walk along the octagonal tree-like pillars.

You'll then reach the entrance:

The first timer will be baffled for sure. After a bit of inspection, you'll realise that these are the doors to two elevators. The one on the left is especially large, probably used for lifting up freight in the days of being a warehouse. Here you're becoming one piece in a cargo.

Moving one floor up, and the doors on the other side open. And you'll be greeted by the reception desk where you pay 60 SEK for a ticket valid throughout the exhibition season.

When you pay the ticket, don't forget to ask the staff to take you to James Turell's permanent installation "Dawning." You cannot see it unless you ask for it. The staff will then take you to a very dark room. After your eyes are adjusted to the darkness, you will encounter the magic of light:

(The image is borrowed from Magasin 3's website.)

Back to the reception area, the current exhibition will be waiting behind the automatic sliding door of frosted glass.

If you become hungry or thirsty, you can enjoy quality foods and drinks at a pleasantly-designed cafe in the reception area. When asked for her recommendation from the menu, the waitress told me, "Everything is tasty. I cannot choose one."

The characteristic octagonal pillars of this museum are echoed by octagonal table tops. A mixture of the white DSR chairs (a classic mid-20th century design icon by famous American designer couple Charles and Ray Eames) and the Hammock chairs of David Design (a Swedish interior design brand) in turn echoes the concept of this museum: showcasing the best of foreign and Swedish contemporary art works. The wall is decorated with art posters of the current exhibition.

One thing you should definitely try at this cafe is a glass of green tea latte, popular in Japan bur rarely found in Europe.

Here's a cautionary note if you now feel like visiting. Magasin 3 is closed for Monday to Wednesday. It's also closed for the summer (the second week of June to the third week of September).

On the other dates, however, it's an interesting place to visit for spending a bit different day than usual.