Pilot Residency

Along the streets of Borlänge, a city whose identity has been shaped by its industrial heritage, the venerable CTH hat factory stands as a proud monument to bygone times. The robust brick facades and magnificent windows whisper stories of an era when hat manufacturing flourished and Borlänge buzzed with creativity. Here, hats were created that spread the city's reputation far and wide, and in the factory halls, the constant hum of machines and the rhythmic beat of sewing machines once echoed. To step in here today is to be transported to a part of the city's soul, where every beam and every windowpane bears traces of dedicated hands and unstoppable creative power.

But the winds of history have not stopped at the golden age of hats. These unique premises, once the pulse of Borlänge's identity, have undergone a remarkable transformation. Although hats no longer shape the fashion landscape, the creative spirit lives on. The industrial architecture, with its generous spaces and authentic character, has become a breeding ground for new artistic expressions. It is in the union of the robust and the delicate, the past and the present, that the place develops its distinct atmosphere.

Today, the CTH Hat Factory has been transformed into a flourishing artist residency, a sanctuary where artists from various disciplines find an inspiring environment to deepen and develop their visions. Here, echoes from the old factory intertwine with new brushstrokes, sculptures, and installations. Visitors gain insight into artists exploring materials, experimenting with light and form, and filling the rooms with a new dimension of life. It is a place where dedication and inspiration intertwine, where the structure of industry meets the boundless freedom of art.

A visit to this residency offers a unique glimpse into an artistic process rarely shared with the public. It's not just about experiencing finished works, but also about sensing all stages of the creative journey. From the initial material selection to the finished idea, from an abstract thought to a concrete expression. The place testifies to Dalarna's capacity for renewal, where history is not a burden but a rich source that nourishes the future. The CTH Hat Factory is a shining example of how cultural heritage can be transformed into a dynamic stage for contemporary art and a vibrant hub for inspiring encounters.