Designed by Erazo Pugliese, Vessel is a remarkable architectural installation created for the Færderbiennalen, an innovative dance and architecture festival. Selected through an international open call, it stands as one of two constructed projects within the festival’s activities. Nestled on the historic grounds of Slottsfjellet - an archaeological site in Tønsberg, Norway, that is home to the city’s Historical Heritage Museum - Vessel thoughtfully engages with its cultural and natural context.

Crafted from wood and agricultural fabric, the installation pays homage to the vessels that have historically served as conduits for exploration and the exchange of crafts, technology, and knowledge across generations and cultures. Emphasizing the region’s maritime heritage, this asymmetrical structure rests gracefully upon the hill’s rocky terrain, inviting visitors to connect deeply with nature and the expansive horizon from a grounded perspective.

The fabrics draped over the timber frame enhance the experience of the environment, allowing users to feel the dynamic shifts of the wind while framing views that highlight the interaction between human artifacts and the landscape. In tranquil moments, guests can retreat into Vessel, embracing contemplation and the existential feelings fostered by the natural surroundings.

To respect the protection of archaeological remnants, including potential Viking artifacts beneath the surface, Vessel was designed without foundations, allowing it to adapt seamlessly to the topography. This consideration not only underscores the installation’s ephemeral nature but also reinforces its commitment to coexist harmoniously with the historical and environmental significance of the site. As such, Vessel stands as a poignant architectural statement that reflects the intersection of heritage, nature, and human experience, inviting all who encounter it to engage with the world around them.