'She Lies' – Oslo, Norway - Atlas Obscura
Places near me Random place

'She Lies'

Oslo, Norway

This floating sculpture of ice is a poignant reminder of nature's power. 

View all photos
"She Lies." Der Robert/cc by 2.0
"She Lies." Der Robert/cc by 2.0
"She Lies" as seen from the Oslo Opera House Roof. DenverApplehans (Atlas Obscura User)
"She Lies" in the water in front of the Oslo Opera House. DenverApplehans (Atlas Obscura User)
753
404
Top Places in Oslo
"Man Attacked by Babies" at Vigeland Sculpture Park
Vigeland Sculpture Park
Oslo, Norway
Kon-Tiki Museum
Oslo, Norway
Emanuel Vigeland Mausoleum
Oslo, Norway
 See All

The power of Mother Nature over human endeavors is on display in Oslo Harbour just off the shore of the Oslo Opera House. This striking sculpture evokes the power of ice and water ever-present in the high north.

The floating stainless steel and glass sculpture named She Lies was designed and created by Italian artist Monica Bonvicini. It is based on Caspar David Friedrich’s painting Das Eismeer (The Sea of Ice).

The artwork floats on a concrete platform tethered to the harbor floor, allowing it to turn and change based on the tides and currents. Its subtle movements are a reminder of nature’s constant change. According Public Art Norway (KORO), which supported the installation, the name She Lies adds intentional ambiguity that encourages further reflection.

The sculpture is permanently installed in Oslo’s Bjørvika harbor area near the Oslo Opera House.

Know Before You Go

It's best viewed from the roof of the Oslo Opera House.

public art sculptures art
Nearby
Oslo Opera House
0.11 miles
The Mini Bottle Gallery
0.34 miles
The Devil of Oslo
0.45 miles
Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.
Near This Place
Oslo opera house, front.
Oslo, Norway

Oslo Opera House

The design of this beautifully crafted building was inspired by Norwegian glaciers.
Mini bottles from around the world
Oslo, Norway

The Mini Bottle Gallery

Tens of thousands of tiny bottles stuffed with various items.
The Devil of Oslo
Oslo, Norway

The Devil of Oslo

In downtown Oslo, a menacing and terrifying relief clings to a church wall.
Oslo, Norway

'Myth (Sphinx)—Kate Moss'

This striking sculpture of a supermodel in a yoga pose challenges traditional public art.
Related Places
Vashon, Washington

Oscar the Bird King

Thomas Dambo's troll sculpture wears a crown with birdhouses on his head.
Avanos, Turkey

Çanakçı Heykeli

This giant work of Cappadocian pottery includes a memorial for the artisan who created it.
London, England

Square the Block

A jumble of concrete on the corner of one of London’s terraced buildings is actually a work of art.
Orlando, Florida

'The Traveler'

If you don't look closely, you might mistake this sculpture for just another passenger waiting at the airport.
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web