'From Earth You have arrived...the Boat is Ready...What are You Waiting for? '
Selftaught, Arne Mælen is a daring and innovative 'wood-man';
his blend of the old traditional craftmanship and experimental thinking makes him a big favourite for Official Gifts and Prizes;
f.ex. Hordaland County's gift to the Norwegian King Harald in 1995,
to the Royal Crown Prince and Crown Princess in 2002,
the Nordic Board of Ministers in 2003, and many more.
He has traveled and exhibited in many countries,
and receieved many prizes for his work;
among others 1. prize Craftmanship in Minot, USA,
1. prize Design in wood, Rennebu, Norway.
His most recent work was commissioned by the University of Bergen,
Norway (2007-2008).
Arne Mælen is also the creator and owner of Hardanger Kulturgalleri, http://www.kulturgalleriet.no/ , situated high up on his old family farm, on the side of the mountain Samlen, right at the heart of Hardangerfjord - with the most spectacular views of the entire fjord.