About the foundation

The modern history of Blaafarveværk started in 1968. That's when married couple Tone and Kjell Steinsvik established the Modum Blaafarveværk Foundation. Today, the museum's activities are based on managing and communicating the history of what was once the largest Norwegian industrial operation. 

An important part of the foundation's role in society is to make this cultural heritage accessible and organised for as many people as possible. In this way, everyone who wants to can take part. That's why Koboltgruvene offers guided tours adapted for wheelchairs and the visually impaired, various educational programmes for children and young people (through the Cultural Schoolbag and its own children's tours) - and English-speaking tourists.

The smelter and the mining area are also surrounded by a rich cultural landscape. In order to understand the whole, and enjoy nature in historical surroundings, the Foundation sees it as part of its social role to preserve this. Not only the remains of the old plant and its history, but also the surrounding area. This should also be for the enjoyment of future generations.

The foundation works purposefully to manage cultural heritage that spans several thousand years. A cultural heritage that embraces several cultures and continents, and in many ways links Modum to the rest of the world. We do this by letting technological, industrial and artistic history melt together. Appropriate enough.

The foundation has a great responsibility for reporting to the public and planning for the future.
Click here for an overview of our plans and reports.