About Us
Community
Eleven local artists have studios in the Spitsbergen Artists Center, many of whom have been working at their art and craft in Longyearbyen for many years. Their work includes organic soaps made with local materials, fine art prints, historical photographs, and paintings, to name a few. Organized as a separate group, the Longyearbyen Craft Center is a strong association of dedicated artists and craftspeople.
Niko & Domi
About Us
Welcome to the Spitsbergen Artists Center, a creative haven in the Arctic led by Niko and Domi, a passionate married duo dedicated to fostering artistic exploration on Svalbard.
Niko Saikkonen, director
With over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer, product manager and operations manager, Niko brings a wealth of expertise to the Spitsbergen Artists Center. Originally from Kuopio, Finland, Niko moved to Svalbard in 2021 and quickly fell in love with the unique beauty of the Arctic. Beyond his professional work, he enjoys painting, co-managing donido.art, and occasionally driving taxis in Longyearbyen. Niko is committed to connecting artists with the transformative power of Svalbard's breathtaking landscapes and dynamic environment.
Domi Dabrowska
Domi’s journey to Svalbard began in 2015 when she wintered at the Hornsund Scientific Station as a meteorologist. With a PhD from Granada, Spain, and a deep love for nature and dogs, she has made Svalbard her home and taken on the role of co-leading the Artist Center. A guide and occasional taxi driver, Domi is passionate about providing artists from around the globe with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Arctic's inspiring landscapes and find fresh creative energy.
Our Vision
At the Spitsbergen Artists Center, we believe in the profound exchange between international artists and the local community. Hosting artists from diverse backgrounds enriches life on Svalbard, while the Arctic’s unique environment offers creators a chance to grow, explore, and take home new inspiration. Together, we’re fostering a vibrant artistic legacy in this extraordinary place on the cusp of change.
Let the Arctic inspire your next masterpiece!
Elizabeth Bourne
Elizabeth Bourne
Elizabeth Bourne, the former director of the Spitsbergen Artists Center, played a pivotal role in shaping and developing the Center, pouring her heart into supporting artists and their creative journeys. Although she has transitioned from her leadership role, Elizabeth continues to be a vital part of the community, offering her guidance, sharing her expertise, and providing invaluable feedback.
An accomplished painter and photographer, Elizabeth’s work has been exhibited internationally in both Europe and the United States. Originally from Seattle, she made Svalbard her home, drawn by the Arctic’s unparalleled beauty and inspiration.
With decades of experience as an Art Director and Operations Manager across industries such as advertising, publishing, education, and event management, Elizabeth brought exceptional vision and expertise to the Center. Her passion for the Arctic and her belief in its transformative power for artists have left a lasting legacy. She remains a steadfast advocate for encouraging creators to immerse themselves in this extraordinary environment on the cusp of change.