On the shore of the Torne River, in the exact location where ICEHOTEL has attracted thousands of visitors over the past winters, specially invited artists came together during two summer weeks to create something new – a sculpture park of magnetite. In 2007, eleven artists created nine unique magnetite sculptures for Magnetite Heavy Art and in 2008; seven artists created six additional sculptures.
Kiruna Municipality can thank its existence to magnetite, which is also referred to as iron ore. Magnetite becomes pellets, which then go on to become iron and steel. Magnetite is to a lesser extent used in everything from industrial products, such as flooring and wall material, to jewelry.
Magnetite is now forging into the world of art and design. The goal is to spotlight the possibilities of using magnetite in both interior spaces and public environments.
In 2007 several companies based in Kiruna, including ICEHOTEL, collaborated to create the first Magnetite Heavy Art exhibition. In 2008 ICEHOTEL, Kiruna Magnetit AB and Kristallen, along with sponsor LKAB, continue the Magnetite Heavy Art project with the additional six sculptures.