Ed Gallagher has the unique responsibility of continuing the work of the American-Scandinavian Foundation and its signature Scandinavia House on Park Avenue in New York City. The American-Scandinavian Foundation will celebrate its 100th year of cross cultural exchanges between the United States and the five Nordic countries starting in October of 2010. Scandinavia House is the largest site in the United States devoted to presenting Scandinavian culture and ideas to the people of the U.S.

Ed came to his leadership position as the culmination of his professional career development in museums, art galleries and the National Academy of Design. “I came to a great appreciation of Scandinavia and the culture which it represented. The ASF is unique with the range of its program including art, design, and historical exhibitions as well as film series, concerts, lectures, symposia, language courses and children’s programs that illuminate the contemporary vitality of the Nordic countries.”

What are the exhibits that you are featuring now?

“The innovative, award-winning, and environmentally conscious architectural firm, Snøhetta, is featured in a multi-faceted exhibition through April 3, 2010. SNØHETTA architecture – landscape – interior offers insight into the design and construction of the firm’s most important works, including the celebrated Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, the recently completed Norwegian National Opera and Ballet in Oslo, Norway, and the planned National September 11 Memorial Museum Pavilion in New York. Organized and initially presented by the National Museum – Architecture in 2009, this exhibition includes films, photographs, drawings, models, and interactive learning devices.”

How do you stay in touch with the cultural developments in Scandinavia?

“We have developed a network of contacts throughout Scandinavia and have frequent interface with the consulates in the United States. They keep us informed of interesting developments. We also travel throughout Scandinavia; for example we recently attended the Gothenburg film festival to scout out interesting cinema.”



Scandinavia House - The American-Scandinavian Foundation 58 Park Ave, New York NY

What challenges are you facing today?

“We are a self funding organization, so the economy is having an effect on our finances. As a leader I have to ensure that we do not lose any quality in our product during these times of financial constraints. One help for us is The Shop @ Scandinavia House. We are able to offer Scandinavian luxury products, from the trendy to the classic. This, along with the most important contributions from our donors is our financial lifeline.”

How can people interested in Scandinavia learn more?

“First visit our website www.scandinaviahouse.org to get a feeling for the scope of our offerings of Scandinavian culture. Become a donor. You can register on our website to help support us. Anytime you are in New York City stop by at Scandinavia House at 58 Park Avenue at 38th Street and visit us.”

Author: JOHN DUNNIGAN