A Norwegian man visiting a new health center in Harstad discovered artwork that made him question its appropriateness. John Inge Mikalsen was preparing for his father's move into Helsehuset when he noticed the reception area display.
The artwork features woven genitalia, including erect penises ejaculating and detailed depictions of both male and female reproductive organs. The piece greets visitors as they enter the facility.
Mikalsen told local media the placement seems completely wrong. He expressed concern about children arriving for psychology appointments who might have trauma related to sexual content.
"Children coming to meet psychologists may have trauma connected to what they see in the images," Mikalsen said. "There are clearly erect penises with visible ejaculation. That might not be what you need in a waiting room."
The artwork titled "Velsigna rund" measures 2.3 meters tall and 2.1 meters wide. Artist Marit Victoria Wulff Andreassen originally created the piece for her hometown of Harstad back in 2006.
The controversial work has previously been displayed at a youth health station. It has consistently generated discussion due to both its size and subject matter.
Mikalsen describes himself as "one of the least easily offended people in the world." Still, he questions whether the artwork belongs in a health center reception area serving patients of all ages.
Some online commentators defended the artwork as natural anatomical representation. They suggested parents could explain it to curious children.
This perspective puzzles Mikalsen. "When my children were small, I didn't think I would have to explain an erect, ejaculating penis," he said. "Small children don't have a relationship with that."
The artist acknowledges her work often provokes strong reactions. She told reporters she's received many comments over the years describing her art as dangerous, sick, or ridiculous.
Andreassen also receives appreciation from people who thank her for contributing to alternative understandings and openness. She feels grateful the artwork finally has a proper placement.
"Working to create art that opens for new reflections around themes like body, gender, identity and sexuality is difficult but important," Andreassen said. She finds meaning that the piece continues to provoke discussion 20 years after its creation.
The newly opened Helsehuset features various artworks throughout the building. Municipal communications chief Øyvind Arvola said the municipality consulted art experts for the decoration scheme.
Arvola stated they haven't received any formal complaints about the waiting room artwork. He acknowledged being aware of reactions in local media but noted no direct complaints to the municipality.
The situation highlights ongoing debates about appropriate public art in Norway. Health facilities worldwide increasingly incorporate art to create healing environments, though content selection remains challenging.
Art in medical settings typically aims to reduce stress and promote wellbeing. The choice of provocative genital imagery in a mental health facility waiting area raises legitimate questions about patient comfort versus artistic expression.