Bunkerlove

BunkerLove is an art project based on a long-term strategy of artistic transformation of the Atlantic Wall bunkers built during WWII. Around bunkers dot an extensive system of coastal fortifications from the south of France to Norway, forming a bleak reminder of a dark episode in European history. Open to all art forms, Bunkerlove aims to breathe new life into the bunkers with cultural happenings which both commemorate lives lost and reflect on the mistakes of the past while looking to the future positively. We started our festival activity in Furreby in 2012, around the middle of the Atlantic Wall, and hosted 3 festivals in 2013 with the financial support of North Denmark and as ‘Kulturpunkt’ for the region. After 2 festivals in 2014 the association slowly transformed into an art project and is now operating on an ad hoc basis. The festival series in 2013, as Kulturpunkt for the North Denmark Region, included 55 artists representing 12 nationalities. Around 60 volunteers and 40 public and private players were involved in the realisation. “Bunkerlove presents a new way of thinking about the functions of the bunkers on the western coast of Europe. Symbols of war are transformed into symbols of peace, internationality, collectivism and sustainability.” Sven Bertelsen, Chairman of Leisure and Cultural Affairs, Hjørring Municipality