Divers clean the river - trash becomes art at Society Expo 2026

What is really hiding under the surface of the Skellefte River? Society Expo 2026 wants to find out - at the same time as Skelleftebotten's diving club is doing a double community effort for Skellefteå municipality. During the fall, they inventory the presence of river pearl mussels and at the same time collect garbage from the river. The material will then be given new life in an art installation at Kurjoviken in Skelleftehamn.

Behind the work is the scenographer Åse Persson, who wants to provoke reflection on what is hidden in our waters and remind us that what we throw away does not disappear.

- It is about provoking thought. How can we become more sustainable in the way we interact with nature? How can we make use of what we throw away, while protecting both the environment and ourselves? says Åse Persson.

- The art installation is an example of how people, ideas and resources can come together to create something that both does good and makes us think. That's what Society Expo 2026 is all about," says Åse Persson.

The art installation will be built from the collected material and placed in the Kurjoviken for the duration of Society Expo 2026 between May 27 and June 9.

Kurjoviken will be a hub for partnerships, innovation and sustainable industry during the expo. Here, decision-makers, entrepreneurs and investors meet through lectures and exhibitions. The site symbolizes Skellefteå's journey from a regional player to a central point in the new industrial era in Sweden and Europe. At the same time, the area will invite activities for everyone, big and small.

During the 14 days of Society Expo, Skellefteå will be filled with activities, experiences and conversations that show how social development, business and culture can work together for a more sustainable future.

Meet people. Fix the future.
Society Expo 2026 takes place in Skellefteå May 27-June 9.