Deep Forest Art Land is a place where contemporary art, nature, and people come together in a vibrant forest landscape.
Here, you make your way through works of art, forest trails, and shared experiences—at your own pace, with plenty of room for curiosity, breaks, and conversations along the way.
How It All Began
The idea was conceived in 2009 by visual artists René Schmidt and Søren Taaning. From the outset, the ambition was to explore what happens when contemporary art moves out of its familiar spaces and into nature—away from white walls, ticket booths, and the specific conventions that many associate with art institutions. Could a space be created where art wasn’t made easier or less demanding in order to reach a wider audience, but where the setting became more open, sensory, and free?
The venue opened to the public in 2010 under the name Skovsnogen—and it quickly became clear that it had even greater potential. At the intersection of art and the forest, a unique space emerged where people could experience contemporary art without needing to understand the language beforehand, and where nature was not merely a backdrop but a living co-player.
Later, Kristina Taaning joined the team, bringing her expertise in learning, children, and outreach. Deep Forest Art Land is not just a place to visit, but a place where children, young people, schools, and families can experience art and nature firsthand. Here, learning isn’t about having things explained—it’s about sensing, exploring, creating, marveling, and being fully present.
What We Believe In
Art can open up nature. It can make us pause, see things differently, and talk to one another. Nature can open up art. It can make the encounter more physical, less solemn, and more communal.
When the two come together, a space emerges where children and adults, experienced art enthusiasts and first-time visitors, locals and those traveling from afar can meet on more equal terms.
That is why we are working to ensure that Deep Forest Art Land is open to everyone—physically, socially, economically, and sensorially. You should be able to come without any special prerequisites. You should be able to follow the path, let yourself be surprised, and experience the place in your own way. You’re welcome to learn something new, but you don’t have to prove yourself. You’re welcome to wonder. You’re welcome to play. You’re welcome to be quiet.
Where We Stand Today
Deep Forest Art Land has grown from the ground up through artistic initiative, local engagement, volunteer efforts, grant support, and municipal collaboration. In 2016, the site became an independent institution and cultural organization under the Municipality of Herning. In 2025, our outreach efforts were honored with the N.L. Høyen Medal from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.
Deep Forest Art Land is not a finished story. It is a living forest in constant flux—where artworks arrive, weather, and become part of the landscape; where nature evolves over time; and where children return as young adults and families create their own traditions.
This is how the place continues to grow.
Deep Forest Art Land is the forest where art, nature, and people breathe freely.