Olivia Rode Hvass

In their practice Olivia Rode Hvass creates fantastical universes that explore storytelling and world building. Born in Aalborg, Denmark and having lived in many places, their work shifts from deep countryside to inner city aesthetics.

Hvass is interested in cultural norms as a foundation of a society. They find inspiration in the meeting points between myths and reality sometimes highlighting forgotten treasures or rewriting epic tales and questioning archetypes.

Coming from a background of family neglect and mental illness, they are drawn to narratives and societal norms as well as alternate realities, magic, and mystery.
Hvass’ is fascinated by the bodily experience and memory of materials, and the stories embedded in objects, techniques, and traditions. Their work spans sculpture, found and made objects, drawing and installations, as well as coding for digital weaving.

They have exhibited at various Danish platforms and institutions such as Kunsthal Aarhus, Kunsthal 6100, Kunsthal NORD, Sydhavn Station, Ladder Space, Archway Nightlands Connectior, Skovgaard Museum, Tranen, Rønnebæksholm, Kunstmuseum Brandts. Internationally at 00.00, in Seoul, South Korea, and Le Bicolore – Maison Du Danemark in Paris, France. Upcoming shows at Kunsthalle Trier in Germany, as well as Frederikshavn Kunstmuseum, Rundetaarn and Skovsnogen in Denmark.
They hold a Masterclass in TC2 weaving with professor Corrie Van Eijk, NL (2021) as well as a BFA, Jutland Art Academy (2021).