MODET LEVER VIDARE – in benefit for Sara Danius memorial fund

24 February18 April 2021
Previous exhibition

Sara Danius wearing one of her iconic blouses. Photo: Isabel Rhea Eriksson

MODET LEVER VIDARE [the fashion / the courage lives on] is a exhibition tributing Sara Danius and fashion / courage. Sara Danius had a great passion for fashion, which is reflected in her large collection of designer garments and shoes that are displayed for auction on Tradera. The proceeds go directly to the Sara Danius memorial fund. At the same time, a series of portraits of prominent female academics will be shown, honoring the memory of Sara Danius' work and her courage. Sara Danius' family and Tradera are behind the initiative in collaboration with Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum. 

Sara Danius (1962–2019) was a writer, essayist, professor of literary studies and the first woman to be permanent secretary of the Swedish Academy. She also had a passionate interest in fashion - something she used to communicate and take a stand on issues such as equality and women's struggle. Now Sara Danius' large collection of designer clothes is getting new life through the exhibition MODET LEVER VIDARE, at Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum. The location is well chosen because Sara Danius was the niece of Sven-Harry Karlsson, the museum's founder.

Sara Danius and Sven-Harry Karlsson stand together on the museum's roof terrace.
One of Sara Danius iconic blouses. Photo: Tradera

Before the exhibition, a large collection of Sara Danius' designer clothes and shoes will be auctioned at Tradera. All money from the auctions goes directly to the Sara Danius memorial fund. A fund started by her family with the aim of supporting female successors in essay ethics and criticism. The auctions end on March 8, International Women's Day.

Stina Wirsén, illustration of Sara Danius, 2018
Stina Wirsén, illustration of Sara Danius, 2018.

In a specially created portrait series, the academics Hanna Wittrock, Ebba Witt-Brattström, Hannah Akuffo, Danica Kragic Jensfelt, Manush Mirzakhanian, Agneta Stark and Nina Åkestam Wikner are photographed wearing Sara Danius' iconic designer garments. The aim is to draw attention to and celebrate the academic courage of these women, as well as inspire more people to follow their own path, like Sara Danius. The photographs were taken by Angelina Bergenwall and are part of the exhibition with texts by and about the academics portrayed.

Portrait of Danica Kragic Jensfelt. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall
Portrait of Ebba Witt-Brattström. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall
Portrait of Hanna Wittrock. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall
Portrait of Hannah Akuffo. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall
Portrait of Manush Mirzakhanian. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall
Portrait of Nina Åkerstam. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall
Portrait of Agneta Stark. Photo: Angelina Bergenwall