Vessel: A Journey Between Architecture, Nature, and Movement on Norway’s Historic Hill

Doğukan Güngör
Jul 19
1 min read

Updated: Sep 14

As part of the Færderbiennalen—a festival that bridges dance and architecture—Vessel is a site-specific, temporary installation designed by Erazo Pugliese. Located atop Slottsfjellet in Tønsberg, Norway—a protected archaeological hill and home to the city’s Historical Heritage Museum—the project invites reflection on space, movement, and cultural memory.

A Language of Motion and Ephemerality

Referencing the region’s history of traditional vessels used for exploration and knowledge exchange, the installation is made of wood and agricultural fabric. Its asymmetrical form and wind-responsive fabric “sails” create a sensory dialogue between the natural environment and human-made structure. Depending on the light, wind, and viewer’s position, the piece is constantly changing.

Visitors are encouraged to engage with framed views of the horizon and surrounding landscape, making Vessel not just a structure to walk through, but a lens to re-experience the site.

Building Without Digging: A Respectful Approach to History

Because Slottsfjellet is a protected site with possible Viking-era remnants, Vessel is built without foundations to avoid disturbing the terrain. A flexible assembly system allows the structure to adapt to the existing topography, reinforcing its temporary and respectful nature.

Blending cultural heritage with contemporary design, Vessel is an installation that speaks softly but resonates deeply. Though temporary, it aims to leave a lasting impression—urging visitors to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with both place and history.