Archipelago Ballads is the result of a year of explorations across the Gothenburg Archipelago, which consists of about 20 of Sweden's 260.000 islands. Although some islands are attached to the mainland's municipality, they have a specific and unique history that is still relatively unknown.
During Sweden's 19th-century industrial boom, Gothenburg's strategic location transformed it into a thriving maritime hub, with the archipelago evolving from modest fishing communities to active participants in shipbuilding and trade. As the city grew and ferry lines connected the islands, they became both economically linked to Gothenburg and a retreat for city dwellers seeking solace in their natural beauty.
Despite the decline of the shipyards in the late 20th century, the islands retained their cultural identity and maritime heritage and shifted their focus to tourism and leisure.
Despite the decline of the shipyards in the late 20th century, the islands retained their cultural identity and maritime heritage and shifted their focus to tourism and leisure.
Often reduced to postcards and archival glimpses, these landscapes bear the quiet traces of a history in motion. From the moment I arrived in Gothenburg, the archipelago drew me in—a place where maritime heritage, economic shifts, and present-day life are deeply entwined. Archipelago Ballads is the result of a year spent navigating these shores, seeking a visual narrative that moves beyond the familiar. Having now moved away from the region, this project also serves as a way to close a personal chapter and bidding farewell to Sweden and its West Coast.
This project was self-published in March 2025, see zine images below.
Photography zine 18,2 X 25,7cm. 94 pages
135g glossy paper 300g mat cover
135g glossy paper 300g mat cover
