International Museum of Children’s Art Faces Funding Crisis

The International Museum of Children’s Art in Oslo, Norway, has showcased art by children worldwide for 40 years. Founded in 1986, the museum features works from toddlers to teenagers, capturing historical moments through young eyes. Notable pieces include responses to the Chernobyl disaster and drawings by Ukrainian and Afghan children affected by conflict.

On its walls, you’ll find drawings from Afghan girls attending clandestine schools and artworks from Ukrainian children at an art center destroyed by war. During the Covid pandemic, children globally contributed to the museum’s collection, which now exceeds 100,000 pieces.

Ashild Breie Nyhus, a classical musician who participated in a recent benefit concert for the museum, described it as a place of exploration for children. Despite its significance, the museum faces closure due to a loss of state funding crucial for its operations.

Angela Goldin, the museum’s director, is striving to preserve this remarkable collection. She shared feelings of disbelief regarding the perceived lack of value attributed to the artwork. The museum was a family initiative, originating with a film by Ms. Goldin’s stepfather, Rafael Goldin, which featured children sharing their perspectives on the world.