Slussen, Stockholm, Sweden 2014-2024.

Slussen («the Lock») is the name of the area between Gamla Stan and Södermalm. Every redevelopment here has been preceded by endless discussions. Every lock from the first, opened in 1642, to the fourth, left to decay, has needed renewal. Countless visions have been presented and many protests have been made.

At the beginning of the 21st century, the Slussen traffic interchange was one of Stockholm’s most debated projects, and in 2014 it remained at a standstill. Concrete blocks with rusty reinforcement bars were dangling above cyclists and pedestrians, a reminder of the urgent need for renovation.

The artists of Deadlineartcollective decided to start the refurbishment themselves. Here is a parallel narrative about the creation of the fifth Slussen. The two artists have assumed various roles as required. In the first decade of the project, they have carried out the work, pushed it forward, and taken responsibility to ensure everything has been done correctly.

The photographer Susanne Walström has documented this work, and at the same time recorded the physical changes to Slussen.

Between 5th of February and 20th of April Slussen Stadsmuseum is showcasing this work in gallery 3.